An APS-C sized sensor gives the camera a 1.6x magnification over 35mm film format. A new EF S 18 55 f/3.5 5.6 lens¹ has been specially developed in order to provide EOS 300D customers with the equivalent 28 90mm zoom range so popular with 35mm film EOS users. This lens takes advantage of the compact sensor size, employing a 'short back focus system' which mounts the lens closer to the sensor than in previous models. The result is high-quality images in a remarkably low-weight, short-length lens.

The 6.3 Megapixel CMOS sensor on the EOS 300D is almost identical to that found in the award-winning EOS 10D which remains the benchmark for digital SLR image quality. ISO speeds of 100, 200, 400, 800 and 1600 are selectable, giving recent converts from film cameras a familiar speed range.

Print straight from the camera
The EOS 300D is the first digital EOS camera to support the vendor-independent PictBridge print standard from launch date. Lab-quality prints can now be produced without the need for a computer by directly connecting the EOS 300D to compatible photo printers via a standard USB cable. The camera's large 1.8" LCD is used to review photographs to be printed and set print variables.

Fast image processing with superb results
Underpinning the camera's technical superiority is Canon's high-speed DIGIC processor. In the days of film, image processing was the role of film companies and mini-labs. With digital, the camera handles this critical task. Complex algorithms required to accurately process functions such as white balance and colour rendition are integrated into the DIGIC processor, resulting in high quality images with no trade-off in camera responsiveness. "A great digital image requires both quality raw ingredients and quality processing," says Komatsuzaki. "Superior lens and sensor technologies ensure the best raw ingredients. It is how DIGIC uses these technologies that gives the EOS 300D the edge".

Wide area, high speed focusing
Seven selectable focusing points provide an ultra wide AF area generally only found in advanced SLRs. Focusing modes include One-Shot AF (for fast, accurate single-shot focusing), and AI AF which can automatically switch to AI servo AF for continuous tracking of subject movement – well suited to sports photography. A Manual Focus override is selectable from the lens.

High-end exposure control
The EOS 300D boasts 35 zone 'Through The Lens' metering, essentially covering the full frame. Three metering modes (evaluative, partial, and centre weighted average) assure balanced exposures in every situation. Along with the full range of automated and manual shooting modes expected in a high-end SLR, the EOS 300D features Programmed Image Control modes such as Night Portrait, Sports, Close-up, Landscape, Portrait and Flash OFF. A built-in automatic flash pops up nearly 90mm above the optical axis to lessen the chance of red-eye for better flash photos.

Shooting adaptability
The EOS 300D is superbly specified to deliver outstanding results in virtually any shooting situation. The camera has a shutter speed range of 1/4000 - 30 seconds, bulb and high-speed x-sync at 1/200s. Simultaneous recording to both RAW and JPEG (middle/fine) formats is possible, while 2GB and higher CompactFlash cards, Types I and II, are supported. Optional wired or infra red wireless remote control is available. Adobe RGB has been added to the standard sRGB colour space. There are seven Auto White Balance settings (such as cloudy, tungsten, fluorescent, etc.) plus custom White Balance and +/- 3 stop White Balance Bracketing (WB-BKT).

Comprehensive accessories, software and online access
The EOS 300D comes complete with battery pack, charger, USB cable, video cable, and a wide embroidered anti-slip neck strap. An optional battery grip, BG-E1, will also be available. Purchase of the EOS 300D entitles customers to membership of the CANON iMAGE GATEWAY ² web portal for a 100 MB online photo album for image uploads. A full software suite is included for handling image file transfers between camera and computer, managing and printing files, and preview and conversion of RAW image files. PhotoStitch is included for seamless merging of panorama shots. and peripherals: photocopiers, printers, faxes, document scanners and multimedia LCD projectors) and Consumer Imaging (input solutions: film and digital cameras, camcorders, binoculars and scanners; and output solutions: Bubble Jet printers and desktop multifunctionals).

¹ The lens will not be sold separately and will only be available with the purchase of the EOS 300D

² May not be available in all regions