By The Canon EOS M3 is a CSC with a 24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor. While its predecessor the EOS M targeted people upgrading from a compact, this release is aimed at enthusiasts wanting a small and lightweight model with some high-end features.
Design
There’s a hotshoe that takes an electronic viewfinder and flashgun (purchased separately), but there’s a built-in flash too. It also has a 3-inch LCD screen that tilts 180 degrees up and 45 degrees down for more flexible shooting. There is a high-quality touchscreen with 1,040k dots. There’s also a new mode that lets you change settings (such as color tones) by using simple sliders, making it perfect for those wanting to get a certain look in-camera. For those who desire more editing control, you can shoot in 14-bit Raw for greater control.
Features
Other key features include the same DIGIC 6 processor found in the 70D, 4.2fps shooting even in RAW for freezing the action, and ISO 100-12,800 to help you shoot in low light. As well as Full HD movies with manual control and a choice of 24p, 25p and 30p frame rates, there’s a microphone jack plug and MP4 for video enthusiasts too. One area the M didn’t excel in was its focusing system, especially in low light. A firmware upgrade sorted most of the problems, but the M3’s Hybrid CMOS AF III autofocus system is said to be 6.1x faster focus than the EOS M (even with the firmware update). There are 49 AF points which cover 80 percent of the frame vertically and 70 per cent of the frame horizontally. Adding to its potential as a small and lightweight travel camera, it comes with Wi-Fi and NFC, allowing you to back up your shots easily. You can use the Camera Connect app to pair your phone with your camera to control it remotely, too. As well as having five EF-M lenses available to purchase, you can also buy a mount adaptor to be able to use Canon’s much larger range of EF-S lenses with this model, making it a great second body for travelling. It’s not a cheap purchase for a small camera, but it more than makes up for it in terms of its functionality. Beginners can see it as an investment, as it will help them go to the next level without the bulk of a DSLR.
To Sum it up:
Great features packed into a small body – the Canon EOS M3 is a worthwhile investment for those wanting a lightweight model that gives them the freedom to seek that perfect shot in far-flung places. A good option for beginners looking to take the next step, or enthusiasts tired of the bulk of a DSLR.
