Canon EOS 5D Mk.II vs Nikon D700 vs Sony A900: Back Views
A closer look at the backs of these cameras
Nikon D700
Dial
Drive modes including timers, live view and mirror lock-up are accessed via the dial to the left of the viewfinder, on top of which sit buttons for image quality, white balance and ISO.
Viewfinder
Offering 100% coverage, the viewfinder is fronted by a porthole style cup.
Top plate LCD
Exposure information is displayed on this LCD.
Focus Point Lock
By locking the focus point with the dial around the control pad, you eliminate the risk of accidentally changing the focus point while shooting.
Focus Mode
The focus modes may be selected via the switch at the lower right of the LCD screen. This includes the dynamic area mode, which uses all 51 points (if you wish) to track moving subjects.
Sony Alpha 900
Viewfinder
The a900’s viewfinder is large, bright and an absolute pleasure to use.
2. Quick Access Buttons
The top-plate buttons quicken access to certain settings, such as exposure compensation and drive modes.
Metering
Metering patterns are changed via the collar around the AEL button, with three options – spot, average and evaluative.
LCD screen
The 920,000-dot LCD screen measures 3 inches in size, and makes light work of reviewing fine detail.
FN button
This started out as a dedicated mode dial on the a100, though now it accesses the graphic user interface (left) which displays the various shooting options. From here these may be changed using the two command dials and the joystick on the rear.
Canon EOS 5D Mark.II
Mode Dial
The 5D Mark II is the only camera out of the three to feature a mode dial (top left), which contains exposure options, custom settings and the Auto modes. It also allows direct access to the bulb function.
Live View
This button (to the left of the eyepiece) accesses the live view function, from which you also can start shooting video. It also doubles up as Canon’s Direct Print button.
Speaker
When playing back movies, the small speaker allows you to listen to your recordings.
LCD Screen
The 3in high-res LCD screen is primed with a number of coatings for the prevention of dirt
build-up and reflections, among other things.
Scroll Dial
This scroll dial (the big, round dial on the right) allows you to change key settings in a hurry.