The Canon EOS 60D, a notable DSLR, replaced the EOS 50D, offering photographers enhanced features and quality. It’s a fast, feature-packed camera with excellent photo and video capabilities.
This camera boasts an 18-megapixel sensor and 1080p HD video, appealing to enthusiasts seeking a balance between performance and affordability. Detailed manuals are readily available.
Overview of the Camera
The Canon EOS 60D is a versatile 18.1-megapixel DSLR, designed as a step up from entry-level models. It features a DIGIC 4 image processor and a unique articulating LCD screen, enhancing usability.
Replacing the EOS 50D, it offers improved performance and features, including 1080p HD video recording. The camera’s controls, while sometimes complex, provide extensive customization. Comprehensive manuals detail all functions, aiding users in mastering its capabilities for both photography and videography.
Target Audience and Use Cases
The Canon EOS 60D primarily targets enthusiast photographers seeking a powerful yet affordable DSLR. It suits those transitioning from beginner cameras or desiring more control over their images.
Use cases include general photography, portraits, landscapes, and event coverage. Its 1080p video capability appeals to videographers. The detailed canon eos60d manual assists users in exploring advanced features, making it ideal for learning and expanding photographic skills.
Key Features and Specifications
The Canon EOS 60D features an 18.1MP sensor, DIGIC 4 processor, and 1080p HD video. Consult the canon eos60d manual for detailed specifications and optimal settings.
18.1 Megapixel CMOS Sensor
The Canon EOS 60D utilizes an 18.1-megapixel CMOS sensor, delivering high-resolution images with excellent detail; Refer to the canon eos60d manual for understanding sensor size (APS-C) and its impact on depth of field.
This sensor, combined with the DIGIC 4 processor, provides impressive image quality even in challenging lighting conditions. The manual details optimal ISO settings to minimize noise while maximizing detail, ensuring sharp and vibrant photographs.
DIGIC 4 Image Processor
The Canon EOS 60D’s DIGIC 4 Image Processor is crucial for its performance. The canon eos60d manual explains how this processor contributes to fast operation, high image quality, and efficient noise reduction.
It enables features like 1080p HD video recording and rapid continuous shooting. The manual details how the processor works in conjunction with the 18.1MP sensor to deliver accurate colors and detailed images, even at higher ISO settings, enhancing overall image clarity.
ISO Range and Performance
The Canon EOS 60D features an ISO range of 100-6400, expandable to 12800, as detailed in the canon eos60d manual. This allows for shooting in various lighting conditions.
The manual explains how the DIGIC 4 processor aids in minimizing noise at higher ISOs. While performance is strong, some noise is noticeable at the highest settings. Understanding the ISO settings and their impact on image quality is key to optimal results.
Understanding the Camera Body and Controls
The Canon EOS 60D’s body includes a button and dial layout, with a swiveling LCD screen. The canon eos60d manual details each control’s function for easy navigation.
Button and Dial Layout
The Canon EOS 60D’s controls, thoroughly explained in the canon eos60d manual, feature a quick control dial for adjusting settings swiftly. Key buttons manage ISO, white balance, and drive modes.
The rear layout includes a multi-controller for AF point selection and menu navigation. While some find it slightly cramped, the manual provides diagrams and explanations for efficient operation. Understanding the placement of these controls is crucial for seamless shooting.
LCD Screen and Articulation
The Canon EOS 60D distinguishes itself with a vari-angle LCD screen, detailed in the canon eos60d manual, offering flexible viewing angles. This articulated design allows shooting from high or low perspectives with ease.
The 3.0-inch screen provides clear image review and menu navigation. The manual illustrates how to utilize the Live View mode effectively, alongside customizing display settings for optimal visibility in various lighting conditions. It’s a significant upgrade over fixed screens.
Viewfinder Specifications
The Canon EOS 60D’s optical viewfinder, thoroughly explained in the canon eos60d manual, offers approximately 98% coverage of the image area. It features a pentaprism design for bright, clear viewing.
Magnification is 0.59x, and the manual details the diopter adjustment feature, crucial for users with vision correction. This ensures accurate focusing without glasses. The manual also covers the information displayed within the viewfinder, including focus points and settings.
Shooting Modes and Settings
The Canon EOS 60D, as detailed in the canon eos60d manual, offers a range of modes—Auto, Program, Aperture/Shutter Priority, and full Manual control—for diverse shooting scenarios.
Auto Modes for Beginners
The Canon EOS 60D manual highlights several automatic modes ideal for newcomers to DSLR photography. Scene Intelligent Auto analyzes the subject and optimizes settings. Portrait mode delivers pleasing background blur, while Landscape prioritizes sharpness and vivid colors.
Sports mode freezes action, and Night mode excels in low-light conditions. These modes simplify operation, allowing beginners to achieve impressive results without complex adjustments, as the camera handles most settings automatically.
Program, Aperture-Priority, and Shutter-Priority Modes
The Canon EOS 60D manual details Program (P) mode, offering a balance between automatic and manual control. Aperture-Priority (Av) lets users control depth of field by selecting the f-stop, ideal for portraits. Shutter-Priority (Tv) allows control over motion blur or freezing action by adjusting shutter speed.
These semi-automatic modes provide creative flexibility while still assisting with exposure, offering a stepping stone towards full manual control for aspiring photographers seeking greater artistic expression.
Manual Mode for Full Control
The Canon EOS 60D manual explains that Manual (M) mode grants complete control over both aperture and shutter speed. This allows photographers to precisely dictate exposure, crucial for challenging lighting conditions or specific creative effects.
Mastering Manual mode requires understanding the exposure triangle, but unlocks the camera’s full potential. It’s ideal for experienced users wanting absolute authority over every aspect of image capture, fostering artistic vision.
Focusing and Autofocus System
The Canon EOS 60D features a 9-point autofocus system, detailed in the manual. It offers One-Shot, AI Servo, and AI Focus modes for diverse shooting scenarios.
Autofocus Points and Selection
The Canon EOS 60D utilizes a 9-point autofocus system, as detailed within the comprehensive camera manual. Users can select individual focus points or allow the camera to automatically choose one. This selection process is managed through the camera’s menu system, offering flexibility for various shooting conditions.
The manual explains how to customize AF point selection methods, including automatic selection, spot AF, and manual point selection, enabling precise control over focus placement. Understanding these options is crucial for achieving sharp images.
Focusing Modes (One-Shot, AI Servo, AI Focus)
The Canon EOS 60D manual thoroughly explains three key autofocus modes: One-Shot, AI Servo, and AI Focus. One-Shot is ideal for stationary subjects, locking focus upon half-pressing the shutter. AI Servo tracks moving subjects continuously, maintaining focus while they move.
AI Focus intelligently switches between One-Shot and AI Servo, attempting to predict subject motion. The manual details how to select and customize these modes for optimal performance in diverse photographic scenarios, ensuring sharp results.
Manual Focus Operation
The Canon EOS 60D manual details precise manual focusing techniques. Switching to MF mode allows for complete control over focus via the focusing ring on compatible lenses. The manual emphasizes utilizing Live View for magnified image display, aiding in critical focus confirmation.
It explains how to fine-tune focus, especially useful for static subjects or challenging lighting conditions. The manual also covers focus peaking features (if available with specific lenses) for enhanced accuracy during manual operation.
Video Recording Capabilities
The Canon EOS 60D records 1080p HD video, as detailed in the manual. It offers various frame rates and quality settings, alongside options for external audio recording.
1080p HD Video Recording
The Canon EOS 60D’s manual highlights its ability to capture Full HD 1080p video at various frame rates, including 24, 25, and 30 frames per second. This allows for creative control over the look and feel of your videos.
The camera utilizes the entire width of the sensor for recording, resulting in detailed footage. Manual exposure control is available during video recording, offering filmmakers precise adjustments. The manual also details how to utilize the microphone input for improved audio quality.
Frame Rates and Video Quality
The Canon EOS 60D manual details several frame rate options for video recording, including 30fps for standard definition and 24/25/30fps for Full HD 1080p. These choices impact the video’s aesthetic and compatibility.
Video quality is significantly influenced by lighting and lens selection, as outlined in the manual. Users can select different recording sizes and compression levels to balance file size and image detail. The manual also explains how to monitor video levels for optimal exposure.
Audio Recording Options
The Canon EOS 60D manual explains that the camera features a built-in microphone for basic audio capture during video recording. However, for improved sound quality, the manual strongly recommends utilizing the external microphone jack.
This allows connection of a dedicated microphone, significantly reducing ambient noise and enhancing clarity. The manual details how to adjust audio levels manually, preventing clipping or excessively quiet recordings. Proper audio monitoring is crucial, as detailed within the guide.
Image Quality and Performance
The Canon EOS 60D delivers excellent image detail thanks to its 18.1MP sensor. The manual highlights accurate colors and effective noise reduction at higher ISO settings.
Image Resolution and Detail
The Canon EOS 60D features an 18.1-megapixel CMOS sensor, capable of capturing images with substantial detail. The manual explains how this resolution translates to large prints and significant cropping flexibility. Users can expect sharp images, even when enlarged, providing ample room for post-processing adjustments.
The sensor size (APS-C) contributes to a good balance between detail and manageable file sizes, making it suitable for various photographic applications. The manual details optimal settings for maximizing resolution.
Color Accuracy and White Balance
The Canon EOS 60D generally delivers accurate and pleasing colors, though adjustments may be needed depending on lighting conditions. The manual thoroughly explains the various white balance presets – Auto, Daylight, Cloudy, Tungsten, Fluorescent, and Flash – and their appropriate uses.
Custom white balance settings are also detailed, allowing photographers to achieve precise color rendition. The manual guides users through creating and saving custom profiles for consistent results in challenging lighting scenarios, ensuring color fidelity.
High ISO Performance and Noise Reduction
The Canon EOS 60D performs surprisingly well at higher ISO settings, though noise becomes noticeable as the ISO increases. The manual details the camera’s ISO range (100-6400, expandable to 12800) and explains how to balance sensitivity with image quality.
It thoroughly covers the in-camera noise reduction options – Standard and High – and their impact on detail. The manual advises users on when to employ these features to minimize noise while preserving image sharpness, offering practical guidance.
Connectivity and Storage
The Canon EOS 60D utilizes SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards for storage. Its manual details ports like HDMI and USB, enabling image transfer and display on external screens.
Memory Card Compatibility
The Canon EOS 60D’s manual specifies compatibility with SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards. This allows for versatile storage options, accommodating various capacities for photos and 1080p video.
The camera supports UHS-I cards, potentially enhancing data transfer speeds. Users should consult the manual for recommended card brands and speed classes to ensure optimal performance and avoid potential compatibility issues. Larger capacity cards are ideal for extended shooting sessions.
Ports and Connections (HDMI, USB, etc.)
The Canon EOS 60D manual details several ports for connectivity. A mini-HDMI port enables high-definition video output to external displays. A USB 2.0 port facilitates data transfer to computers and supports remote control via compatible software.
Additionally, a standard audio input/output allows for external microphone connection and headphone monitoring. The manual clarifies port locations and proper cable usage for seamless integration with various accessories.
Wireless Capabilities (if applicable)
The Canon EOS 60D manual explicitly states that this camera does not possess built-in wireless capabilities like Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Users seeking wireless functionality require a separate accessory.
The manual details compatibility with Canon’s WFT-E5A Wireless File Transmitter, enabling features like FTP transfer, EOS Utility remote control, and wireless printing. Instructions for setup and operation of this accessory are thoroughly covered.
Menu System and Customization
The Canon EOS 60D manual details a comprehensive menu system, allowing extensive camera personalization. Users can tailor settings and create custom functions for efficient operation.
Navigating the Menu
The Canon EOS 60D manual explains the menu is accessed via the ‘Menu’ button. It’s organized into several tabs – Shooting, AF, Setup, Wrench (Custom Functions), and My Menu.
Each tab contains numerous options, navigable using the directional buttons and ‘Set’ button to confirm selections. The manual emphasizes utilizing the Quick Control Screen for frequently adjusted settings. Understanding the menu structure is key to unlocking the camera’s full potential and customizing it to your preferences.
Custom Functions and Settings
The Canon EOS 60D manual details extensive customization options within the ‘Wrench’ tab, labeled as Custom Functions. These allow users to tailor the camera’s operation to their shooting style.
Settings include button assignments, autofocus behavior, and display preferences. ‘My Menu’ enables personalized shortcuts for frequently used settings. Mastering these functions significantly enhances workflow and allows photographers to optimize the 60D for specific shooting scenarios, boosting efficiency.
Personalizing the Camera
The Canon EOS 60D manual highlights numerous ways to personalize your shooting experience. Beyond Custom Functions, users can adjust the camera’s startup image and sound.
File naming conventions are customizable, aiding organization. The Quick Control screen can be tailored to display preferred settings. These seemingly small adjustments contribute to a more intuitive and efficient workflow, making the 60D truly feel like an extension of the photographer’s vision.
Power and Battery Life
The Canon EOS 60D utilizes a Canon LP-E6 battery, offering respectable life. Power saving modes, detailed in the manual, extend shooting time for prolonged use.
Battery Type and Capacity
The Canon EOS 60D is powered by the Canon LP-E6 lithium-ion battery pack. This battery offers a capacity of approximately 750 shots when fully charged, according to Canon’s testing standards.
The manual details that actual battery performance will vary depending on shooting conditions, such as temperature, LCD usage, and the frequency of features like Live View and image stabilization. Using power-saving modes, as outlined in the guide, can significantly extend battery life during extended shooting sessions.
Power Saving Modes
The Canon EOS 60D manual details several power-saving features to maximize battery life. “Auto Power Off” automatically shuts down the camera after a period of inactivity, configurable between 30 seconds and 8 minutes.
“LCD Off” turns off the LCD screen, while the camera remains operational. Additionally, “Dim LCD Brightness” reduces power consumption. The manual recommends utilizing these settings, especially during travel or extended shoots, to conserve battery power effectively.
Charging Options
The Canon EOS 60D manual specifies using the supplied LC-E6 battery charger. It connects to a standard wall outlet and fully charges the LP-E6 battery in approximately 3 hours.
The manual cautions against using third-party chargers, as they may damage the battery or camera. A charging indicator light on the charger displays the charging status. It’s recommended to charge a spare battery while shooting for uninterrupted use.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
The Canon EOS 60D manual details solutions for focusing problems, image quality concerns, and connectivity issues. Refer to it for detailed guidance and error codes.
Focusing Problems
The Canon EOS 60D manual provides extensive troubleshooting for focusing issues. Check autofocus point selection, ensuring it aligns with your subject. Verify the correct focusing mode (One-Shot, AI Servo, AI Focus) is chosen for the situation.
If problems persist, clean the autofocus sensors and lens contacts. Confirm sufficient light is available, as low light can hinder autofocus performance. Manual focus is always an option, detailed within the manual.
Image Quality Concerns
The Canon EOS 60D manual details settings impacting image quality. Review white balance settings for accurate color rendition. Explore picture styles to customize image appearance. If noise is present, adjust noise reduction levels – the manual explains these options.
Ensure correct exposure and sharp focus. Check image resolution settings for desired detail. Refer to the manual for guidance on optimizing image quality in various shooting conditions, maximizing the 18.1MP sensor.
Connectivity Issues
The Canon EOS 60D manual provides troubleshooting for connection problems. Verify the USB cable is securely connected to both the camera and computer. Ensure correct driver installation for HDMI and USB ports. Check settings for proper data transfer protocols.
If issues persist, consult the manual’s section on port functionality. Confirm compatibility with devices and explore potential firmware updates. The manual details steps for resolving common connectivity errors;
Comparison with EOS 50D and 7D
The Canon EOS 60D manual details its improvements over the 50D, like the articulating screen. It positions itself between the 50D and the higher-end 7D models.
EOS 60D vs. EOS 50D
The Canon EOS 60D manual highlights key upgrades from the 50D, notably the vari-angle LCD screen, a significant advantage for creative shooting angles. While both share an APS-C sensor, the 60D boasts a higher resolution of 18.1 megapixels compared to the 50D’s 15.1.
The 60D also introduces the DIGIC 4 processor, enhancing image processing speed and quality. Though both cameras cater to enthusiasts, the 60D offers a more modern feature set and improved video capabilities, making it a compelling upgrade.
EOS 60D vs. EOS 7D
The Canon EOS 60D manual reveals a camera positioned below the professional-grade 7D. While the 7D offers a more robust build and faster performance, the 60D provides excellent image quality and features at a lower price point. The 7D boasts a higher-end autofocus system and more extensive weather sealing.
However, the 60D’s articulating LCD screen is absent on the 7D. Both cameras utilize the DIGIC 4 processor, but the 7D’s overall capabilities cater to more demanding photographers seeking professional results.
Accessories and Optional Equipment
The Canon EOS 60D manual details compatible lenses, external flashes, and other accessories. These enhance functionality, from improved lighting to specialized photographic pursuits.
Explore options for remote controls, battery grips, and lens filters to customize your shooting experience.
Lenses Compatible with EOS 60D
The Canon EOS 60D manual comprehensively lists compatible lenses, spanning Canon’s EF and EF-S series. EF lenses offer full-frame versatility, while EF-S lenses are optimized for the 60D’s APS-C sensor.
Popular choices include the EF 50mm f/1.8 for portraits and the EF-S 18-55mm kit lens for general use. Third-party lenses from Sigma and Tamron also provide expanded options, detailed within the manual’s compatibility section.
External Flashes and Lighting
The Canon EOS 60D manual details compatibility with Canon’s Speedlite flashes, offering advanced lighting control. Utilizing external flashes enhances image quality in challenging conditions, providing greater flexibility than the built-in flash.
The manual explains flash synchronization speeds and modes. Options range from the Speedlite 430EX II to professional models like the 580EX II, alongside guidance on off-camera flash techniques and lighting accessories.
Other Useful Accessories
The Canon EOS 60D manual highlights several beneficial accessories. Remote shutter releases are recommended for long exposures and minimizing camera shake, while various battery grips extend shooting time.
Cleaning kits maintain sensor and lens quality, and protective filters safeguard against damage. The manual also mentions carrying cases, extra memory cards, and software for image editing, enhancing the overall photographic experience.