This momma is looking to buy a camera ?

[KyleSTL]

I think the EOS would be a good budget choice, as long as you understand the limitations outlined by Mt Spokane. I think the AF speed is improved based on what I've seen with the newer firmware 2.0.2 (although it is well short of DSLR speed for still, probably comparable to T4i/T5i for video). EOS M has all the same PTvAvM modes as a DSLR, so yes, you will be able to set shutter speed, ISO and aperture. I would suggest going to Best Buy or a camera store and play around with them, that might help you decide whether or not the design and 'feel' (focus speed especially) of the EOS M are acceptable.

 

[jebrady03]

I think the EOS would be a good budget choice, as long as you understand the limitations outlined by Mt Spokane. I think the AF speed is improved based on what I've seen with the newer firmware 2.0.2 (although it is well short of DSLR speed for still, probably comparable to T4i/T5i for video). EOS M has all the same PTvAvM modes as a DSLR, so yes, you will be able to set shutter speed, ISO and aperture. I would suggest going to Best Buy or a camera store and play around with them, that might help you decide whether or not the design and 'feel' (focus speed especially) of the EOS M are acceptable.

I agree, the AF speed is the Achilles heel of the EOS M but it's not as bad for casual shooting as everyone makes it seem. Additionally, the OP is coming from a cell phone for pictures so the EOS M should be an improvement.

To the OP, make sure you read the manual (goes for any camera you buy) multiple times. The EOS M is a VERY capable camera and is honestly a better camera than most people NEED (not want, need). Knowing that manual inside and out (or at least where you can find the info you need quickly) will be a HUGE advantage over just turning it on and trying to use it.

 

[Ruined]

Can people recommending the EOS-M on this thread say in good faith Canon has definite plans to continue supporting this camera in the future given the below:
http://www.dpreview.com/forums/post/51795516

We know:
1) The EOS-M is being sold at blowout prices
2) The EOS-M 11-22 lens is not being sold or serviced in the US due to "market conditions" (aka poor sales)
3) Mirrorless in general have been a massive sales disappointment across the board recently

Is it really good to be recommending a product that has signs of being orphaned in the near future? At least if a DSLR is discontinued you can use the lenses on a different one if it breaks, if the EOS-M is orphaned it is possible the whole lens system will go with it.

For example, it is possible Canon will abandon the EF-M mount entirely and instead pursue a full frame mirrorless system that uses EF mount given the minute differences in size between mirrorless & dslr full frame lenses.

 

[jebrady03]

How is recommending the EOS M any different than recommending a (more expensive) fixed lens, large sensor compact (RX100II)?

 

[Ruined]

How is recommending the EOS M any different than recommending a (more expensive) fixed lens, large sensor compact (RX100II)?

#1 I did not recommend a more expensive fixed lens, large sensor compact. But when you buy that, you know what you are buying - a fixed lens system.
#2 One main purpose of buying an interchangeable lens camera system is so you can interchange various different lenses. If the lens system is discontinued and no more lenses are released, given the paltry selection of current EF-M lenses you essentially lose one of the primary features of the device. Currently, the most recently planned (and desperately needed to fill ultra wide focal length gap) lens release for the EOS-M was cancelled in the US due to poor sales and the camera is on blowout sale, this does not bode well for the immature EF-M lens system which currently 100% depends on the EOS-M for survival.

Thus, given the OP's needs, again I'd say either cheap point and shoot, or Rebel SL1 if more potential is desired. EOS-M is too much of an uncertainty of whether it will continue to be supported for me to recommend in good faith.

 

[Lesuediane]

I personally think the M would be a very good choice.

1) CHEAP - thus, if Canon decides tomorrow to cease production, the OP hasn't really lost much. In fact, she hasn't lost anything as she'll still have a VERY capable camera for years to come.
2) It does what she wants it to - takes pictures of equal quality to a DSLR
3) Lens selection - we're talking about someone who wants nice pictures and prefers a one lens solution - NOT someone who is looking to buy an entire stable of lenses to perfectly fit every situation.... ever. The M has 3 very good lenses. Two of which (EF-M 18-55 IS STM and EF-M 22) can be had along with a flash AND the camera for $400 if her timing is right! One is an every day lens for taking places and shooting video (18-55) and the other is her indoor and/or "pocketable" (cargo pants pocket, jacket pocket, diaper bag size solution) lens.
4) Video - the EOS M is a mirrorless version of the T4i. For everyone who said the T4i would be a good solution because of video, you CAN'T say the M isn't equally as good for VIDEO.
5) EOS M2 - when the follow up comes out (presumably with DPAF - which to the OP means VERY good autofocus performance in live view [the only option for the M] and video), it will be substantially more expensive. However, all is not lost. If the OP buys the current M plus the 2 lens package plus flash, the current M basically only costs about $75 in that package and the other lenses plus flash can just be used on the M2 - no value lost at all. That's a disposable price for the camera, IMO. But the camera can still be used (she doesn't HAVE to dispose of it) for times she takes her kid to the beach and doesn't want to risk getting sand in the M2, or other higher risk situations. It basically turns into a $75 lifetime insurance policy.

Keep an eye out for that 2 lens plus flash kit for ~$400 if you decide the M is for you. Snag it (as long as the seller has a good return policy), try it out, and if you hate it, return it and get your money back.

When is the eos m2 expected to release ? What will improve ? It will be double the price of the eos m ? Someone else mentioned canon discontinued the series all together ? That the lens are being shipped overseas for repairs ... What does this mean for me if I were to buy one ?

Buying the m would let me see just how much I will be using a camera .. I could upgrade to a better dslr later and still have a pocket size to carry around ...

Just thinking out loud .....

 

[takesome1]

@Lesuediane

While it is a fine little camera, I would stay way from the EOS M. It is going to be replaced shortly and was Canon's first attempt. It is at bargain prices now and you could pick it up cheap if that appeals to you. It has to many limitations and is only appealing because Canon dropped the price. Not long ago when it was released and priced much higher the same people praising it now were condemning it for its weakness.

I would still suggest the t4i or the t5i for your needs. I bought the wife a t4i and it is simple to use and takes great pictures even with the kit lens. It will also give you the option to expand later if you want to. You can grow with these bodies.

I wouldn't suggest any of the point and shoots that people are throwing out. The reason is that you came here to ask about DSLR's not point and shoots. I speculate that you want more out of a camera than a P&S will provide.

 

[comsense]

Can people recommending the EOS-M on this thread say in good faith Canon has definite plans to continue supporting this camera in the future

The more relevant question is whether EOS M is suitable for photographing children?
The clear answer is that this is the worst camera in Canon EOS lineup for this purpose.
A lot of people have already alluded to this mildly.
Fanboys can say whatever, iphone 5/5S has better success catching them in action than EOSM.
Another word of caution: If you are a very experienced photographer, you can possibly use EOSM well under certain situations (landscapes, adult studio portraits etc.) overcoming its limitations. If you are just starting, this might frustrate you from investing further into photography.
The markets are not always stupid and the response to this camera was absolutely justified. If I had not paid just $300 for camera+lens+flash, I would have surely returned it.
Whatever you decide to buy momma is up to your budget, expectations and appetite for learning, but stay away from EOS M for now at least. With some experience photographing kids, I can rate Canon lineup as follows:
1DX > 5DIII > 6D > 7D/70D > T*
Personally, if you want to take it up as a hobby/passion, I would start with at least 60D/70D. Ergonomics, controls and possible better quality control than T* series is definitely worth few extra 100s.
As far as video is concerned - unless you invest in expensive accessories which together can be much more expensive than a cost of reasonable camcorder; its better to just buy a camcorder.

 

[takesome1]

I personally think the M would be a very good choice.

1) CHEAP - thus, if Canon decides tomorrow to cease production, the OP hasn't really lost much. In fact, she hasn't lost anything as she'll still have a VERY capable camera for years to come.
2) It does what she wants it to - takes pictures of equal quality to a DSLR
3) Lens selection - we're talking about someone who wants nice pictures and prefers a one lens solution - NOT someone who is looking to buy an entire stable of lenses to perfectly fit every situation.... ever. The M has 3 very good lenses. Two of which (EF-M 18-55 IS STM and EF-M 22) can be had along with a flash AND the camera for $400 if her timing is right! One is an every day lens for taking places and shooting video (18-55) and the other is her indoor and/or "pocketable" (cargo pants pocket, jacket pocket, diaper bag size solution) lens.
4) Video - the EOS M is a mirrorless version of the T4i. For everyone who said the T4i would be a good solution because of video, you CAN'T say the M isn't equally as good for VIDEO.
5) EOS M2 - when the follow up comes out (presumably with DPAF - which to the OP means VERY good autofocus performance in live view [the only option for the M] and video), it will be substantially more expensive. However, all is not lost. If the OP buys the current M plus the 2 lens package plus flash, the current M basically only costs about $75 in that package and the other lenses plus flash can just be used on the M2 - no value lost at all. That's a disposable price for the camera, IMO. But the camera can still be used (she doesn't HAVE to dispose of it) for times she takes her kid to the beach and doesn't want to risk getting sand in the M2, or other higher risk situations. It basically turns into a $75 lifetime insurance policy.

Keep an eye out for that 2 lens plus flash kit for ~$400 if you decide the M is for you. Snag it (as long as the seller has a good return policy), try it out, and if you hate it, return it and get your money back.

When is the eos m2 expected to release ? What will improve ? It will be double the price of the eos m ? Someone else mentioned canon discontinued the series all together ? That the lens are being shipped overseas for repairs ... What does this mean for me if I were to buy one ?

Buying the m would let me see just how much I will be using a camera .. I could upgrade to a better dslr later and still have a pocket size to carry around ...

Just thinking out loud .....

The EOS M had around a $700 price when released.
I would speculate a EOS M II to release at $800 or more, but no one knows for sure.
The lenses made and sold with the M will only work with a M. You can buy an adapter to use EOS line.

 

[Ruined]

The EOS M had around a $700 price when released.
I would speculate a EOS M II to release at $800 or more, but no one knows for sure.
The lenses made and sold with the M will only work with a M. You can buy an adapter to use EOS line.

To play devil's advocate...

If the M2 were still planned to be released in the USA *and* be compatible with the EOS-M mount, why would Canon decide to cancel the 11-22mm EOS-M lens release in the USA due to poor sales? I would think they would continue to build out the EF-M lens lineup if the M2 were planned to be released soon and compatible with it, no?

Given the recent release of the A7 and Nikon's rumored response, IMO it is possible Canon may scrap EF-M altogether and move to full frame EF mirrorless. Otherwise, I don't see why they'd blow out EOS-M cameras and stop releasing EF-M lenses as they have in the US. We don't know for sure, but I don't think you can make a solid argument that the EF-M lens system is thriving in the US - instead it appears to be stagnating.

 

[takesome1]

The EOS M had around a $700 price when released.
I would speculate a EOS M II to release at $800 or more, but no one knows for sure.
The lenses made and sold with the M will only work with a M. You can buy an adapter to use EOS line.

To play devil's advocate...

If the M2 were still planned to be released in the USA *and* be compatible with the EOS-M mount, why would Canon decide to cancel the 11-22mm EOS-M lens release in the USA? I would think they would continue to build out the EF-M lens lineup if the M2 were planned to be released soon and compatible with it, no?

Given the recent release of the A7 and Nikon's rumored response, IMO it is possible Canon may scrap crop mirrorless altogether and move to full frame EF mirrorless. Otherwise, I don't see why they'd blow out EOS-M cameras and stop releasing EF-M lenses as they have in the US. We don't know for sure, but I don't think you can make a solid argument that the EF-M lens selection is thriving, or even growing at all in the US.

I think the key word on all of these comments is "speculate".

 

[Ruined]

I think the key word on all of these comments is "speculate".

Correct, but given the EOS-M only has two native lenses available in the US and its sales were so dire that Canon cancelled the third lens release, I would think speculation would be in order for a potential buyer of the system.

 

[Lesuediane]

I think the key word on all of these comments is "speculate".

Correct, but given the EOS-M only has two native lenses available in the US and its sales were so dire that Canon cancelled the third lens release, I would think speculation would be in order for a potential buyer of the system.

The two lenses that are available in the us ... Would I need any additional lenses for everyday use ? Could you explain to me what I would want to use each lens for ? I'm VERY new to all of this . I want a camera that I'm going to use , maybe a bigger sl1 would be bulky for everyday life .. Playing in the yard , trips to the park ... But I would also like to be able to take nice birthday photos , Christmas etc . How long would a little camera like this last ? Is the shutter count significant ? Is there another brand camera that would better suite my needs ? A friend has a Sony nex5 ? How does it match up ? Better or ? .... Thanks everyone for all your comments and help ... Keep it coming ;-)

 

[Zv]

I think the key word on all of these comments is "speculate".

Correct, but given the EOS-M only has two native lenses available in the US and its sales were so dire that Canon cancelled the third lens release, I would think speculation would be in order for a potential buyer of the system.

The two lenses that are available in the us ... Would I need any additional lenses for everyday use ? Could you explain to me what I would want to use each lens for ? I'm VERY new to all of this . I want a camera that I'm going to use , maybe a bigger sl1 would be bulky for everyday life .. Playing in the yard , trips to the park ... But I would also like to be able to take nice birthday photos , Christmas etc . How long would a little camera like this last ? Is the shutter count significant ? Is there another brand camera that would better suite my needs ? A friend has a Sony nex5 ? How does it match up ? Better or ? .... Thanks everyone for all your comments and help ... Keep it coming ;-)

The EOS M has three lenses available in it's native format - the M mount.

They are the 18-55mm lens; a general purpose lens that ranges from a relatively wide perspective (18mm) to a reasonably good portrait length (55mm). This lens is what you would likely use most often. It has Image Stabilization to help keep the lens steady for low light situations.

Then there is the 22mm f/2 pancake lens. It's very small and compact and lets in a lot of light compared to the 18-55mm lens. The downside is that you only have one focal length / perspective. 22mm is still pretty wide but good for group shots of people, buildings and landscapes. It's also good for some walking around casual shooting. F/2 means you could get sharp photos using fast shutter speeds. This lens has no IS though.

The newest lens, not available in the US, is the 11-22mm lens. This is a very wide angle lens and is used for getting sweeping landscapes and buildings. It's also great for tight spaces. These lenses create a kind of stretched distortion that can look really cool if used right. (I love wide angle lenses as do much of this community!). This lens has IS which makes it even more desirable.

The system still lacks a telephoto zoom lens for headahots and far away objects. We are still waiting for Canon to do something there!

Now, if you buy the EF adaptor, you can then use any current EF, or EFS lens available in Canon's lineup with the EOS M. So it's not all bad news. However, those lenses tend to be a lot bigger so you lose the size advantage.

I can't comment on Sony as I've never used them. I'm sure someone can break it down for you. Sony likely has a lot more lenses for it's mirrorles than Canon does.

 

[jebrady03]

The rumors surrounding the M2 are many and conflicting. Some people think that the M line has been discontinued because Canon hasn't released the EF-M 11-22 in the US. Others think that they're saving that lens for the market that shunned the M the most in order to create more hype when the M2 comes out. Additionally, Canon accidentally showed their hand and put "M2" into the help files for their photo processing software. 13 times. To me, THAT is a stronger indicator of future intent than not YET releasing a lens that honestly, isn't a lens EVERYONE needs/wants. It's an ultra wide angle lens, not many people (compared to those who own regular kit lenses) own an ultra wide angle lens.

As for a release date, probably not until next year and yes, probably $800-1000.

The current M is, during most uses, equal to the entry level NEX cameras. The NEX cameras may (according to most people) autofocus a little bit faster than the M, but the M lenses are MUCH better and substantially cheaper than the lenses for the NEX system.

For every day use for subjects that aren't far away, these two lenses will satisfy your needs.

FYI, the 18-55mm lens is about $150. The 22mm is about $100. The EX90 flash is about $100. So, should you buy all of those items separately, they're about $350. That means you have $50 invested in the camera (less than I thought earlier). So, you could take pictures with it now and keep it for the future as a backup should you decide to buy the M2. Or, on the off chance Canon does abandon the EOS M line (I don't think they will, they need to have a camera in the mirrorless market even though mirrorless cameras don't sell well in the US right now for some reason), you've only invested $400 into the EOS M system and it should last you for probably a decade with average use, if not substantially longer. Another way to look at it is that technology will pass it by several times before it finally stops working.

 

[ajfotofilmagem]

There is no such thing as the perfect camera for all types of photography and video. The closest thing to it is a DSLR camera. If you do not want to carry several kilograms of equipment, but want good quality photos and videos, including video of children running, the most appropriate camera (under $ 1400) is Canon SL1. If you want more light and compact and accepts forgo agility and practicality, then it is more advantageous to mirrorles Sony NEX because EOS M has underperformed the autofocus and lens are sparse. If you want even more compact to fit in your pocket, then Canon G15 is an interesting choice. While you wait new cameras come to market, their children grow up and you lose these records memorable.

 

[Lesuediane]

The rumors surrounding the M2 are many and conflicting. Some people think that the M line has been discontinued because Canon hasn't released the EF-M 11-22 in the US. Others think that they're saving that lens for the market that shunned the M the most in order to create more hype when the M2 comes out. Additionally, Canon accidentally showed their hand and put "M2" into the help files for their photo processing software. 13 times. To me, THAT is a stronger indicator of future intent than not YET releasing a lens that honestly, isn't a lens EVERYONE needs/wants. It's an ultra wide angle lens, not many people (compared to those who own regular kit lenses) own an ultra wide angle lens.

As for a release date, probably not until next year and yes, probably $800-1000.

The current M is, during most uses, equal to the entry level NEX cameras. The NEX cameras may (according to most people) autofocus a little bit faster than the M, but the M lenses are MUCH better and substantially cheaper than the lenses for the NEX system.

For every day use for subjects that aren't far away, these two lenses will satisfy your needs.

FYI, the 18-55mm lens is about $150. The 22mm is about $100. The EX90 flash is about $100. So, should you buy all of those items separately, they're about $350. That means you have $50 invested in the camera (less than I thought earlier). So, you could take pictures with it now and keep it for the future as a backup should you decide to buy the M2. Or, on the off chance Canon does abandon the EOS M line (I don't think they will, they need to have a camera in the mirrorless market even though mirrorless cameras don't sell well in the US right now for some reason), you've only invested $400 into the EOS M system and it should last you for probably a decade with average use, if not substantially longer. Another way to look at it is that technology will pass it by several times before it finally stops working.

I think I will order the whole kit for $400 .. Even if I find I'm wanting a bigger dslr later .. I will always have the eos m for when a smaller camera would be better suited . I have looked at sample images and they look way nice !! I could pick up a small video devise for those times when I want to record. . I like the compact size and price . I'm not really wanting to shoot him running anyway ... I think the continuous shooting will catch him in action , right ?

 

[Lesuediane]

There is no such thing as the perfect camera for all types of photography and video. The closest thing to it is a DSLR camera. If you do not want to carry several kilograms of equipment, but want good quality photos and videos, including video of children running, the most appropriate camera (under $ 1400) is Canon SL1. If you want more light and compact and accepts forgo agility and practicality, then it is more advantageous to mirrorles Sony NEX because EOS M has underperformed the autofocus and lens are sparse. If you want even more compact to fit in your pocket, then Canon G15 is an interesting choice. While you wait new cameras come to market, their children grow up and you lose these records memorable.

So between the Sony nex5 and the eos m ... You would hands down choose the Sony nex5 ? I was really liking the eos m .... Looks cleaner than the Sony ( call me crazy ) I like the body better .

 

[ajfotofilmagem]

The rumors surrounding the M2 are many and conflicting. Some people think that the M line has been discontinued because Canon hasn't released the EF-M 11-22 in the US. Others think that they're saving that lens for the market that shunned the M the most in order to create more hype when the M2 comes out. Additionally, Canon accidentally showed their hand and put "M2" into the help files for their photo processing software. 13 times. To me, THAT is a stronger indicator of future intent than not YET releasing a lens that honestly, isn't a lens EVERYONE needs/wants. It's an ultra wide angle lens, not many people (compared to those who own regular kit lenses) own an ultra wide angle lens.

As for a release date, probably not until next year and yes, probably $800-1000.

The current M is, during most uses, equal to the entry level NEX cameras. The NEX cameras may (according to most people) autofocus a little bit faster than the M, but the M lenses are MUCH better and substantially cheaper than the lenses for the NEX system.

For every day use for subjects that aren't far away, these two lenses will satisfy your needs.

FYI, the 18-55mm lens is about $150. The 22mm is about $100. The EX90 flash is about $100. So, should you buy all of those items separately, they're about $350. That means you have $50 invested in the camera (less than I thought earlier). So, you could take pictures with it now and keep it for the future as a backup should you decide to buy the M2. Or, on the off chance Canon does abandon the EOS M line (I don't think they will, they need to have a camera in the mirrorless market even though mirrorless cameras don't sell well in the US right now for some reason), you've only invested $400 into the EOS M system and it should last you for probably a decade with average use, if not substantially longer. Another way to look at it is that technology will pass it by several times before it finally stops working.

I think I will order the whole kit for $400 .. Even if I find I'm wanting a bigger dslr later .. I will always have the eos m for when a smaller camera would be better suited . I have looked at sample images and they look way nice !! I could pick up a small video devise for those times when I want to record. . I like the compact size and price . I'm not really wanting to shoot him running anyway ... I think the continuous shooting will catch him in action , right ?

You can make videos of children running with the current EOS M, but when they run toward you probably slow autofocus will not be able to accompany them.

 

[ajfotofilmagem]

There is no such thing as the perfect camera for all types of photography and video. The closest thing to it is a DSLR camera. If you do not want to carry several kilograms of equipment, but want good quality photos and videos, including video of children running, the most appropriate camera (under $ 1400) is Canon SL1. If you want more light and compact and accepts forgo agility and practicality, then it is more advantageous to mirrorles Sony NEX because EOS M has underperformed the autofocus and lens are sparse. If you want even more compact to fit in your pocket, then Canon G15 is an interesting choice. While you wait new cameras come to market, their children grow up and you lose these records memorable.

So between the Sony nex5 and the eos m ... You would hands down choose the Sony nex5 ? I was really liking the eos m .... Looks cleaner than the Sony ( call me crazy ) I like the body better .

The only advantage of the current EOS M is the price. I do not like very small cameras, but I must admit that Sony NEX has better performance autofocus in video, compared to other mirrorless cameras.