For those who are serious about long-exposures and deep-sky astrophotography, but find that most cameras are ill-equipped for the task, there is a solution: the EOS 60Da DSLR Camera from Canon. This camera has been specifically redesigned for astrophotography right out of the box. So whether you want to use live preview on the pivoting display to get the composition of a constellation just right, or record the next meteor shower in stunning HD video, the EOS 60Da takes these fantastic features, among many others, and shoots for the stars.
With features like manual exposure control, the option to attach on any of the Canon EF or EF-S lenses, and various audio adjustments--including an external stereo mic connection, and both manual and auto gain control--the 60Da puts DSLR film-making at your fingertips. With the built-in 1920 x 1080 HD video resolution you'll be able to capture MOV video clips up to 4GB in size (time depends on resolution). Other noteworthy features of the video function include in-camera editing, a number of other recording resolutions to choose from, and an HDMI output for one-cable connection to your HDTV.
No matter if you're shooting HD video or digital stills the 60Da captures everything to convenient flash memory cards--including SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards. Canon also gives you the option to use wireless USB 2.0 drives, or Eye-Fi cards for computer-free wireless transfer of your images.
The EOS 60Da still has the large 18MP APS-C CMOS sensor that packs in enough pixel-power to make those enlarged mural prints you've only been dreaming of, a reality. But even if you don't plan on making a wall-sized mural of the Pleiades to hang in your living room, an 18MP sensor provides other advantages. Sharpness, clear details, a lack of image-destroying noise, and true-to-life colors are all examples of how more pixels will make your images pop!
The 60Da also features Canon's DIGIC 4 Image Processor. With DIGIC 4 you'll enjoy the benefits of fast shooting speeds, in-camera RAW image processing, creative filters, image resizing, and other exciting in-camera features. Enhanced Face Detection Live Mode, Full HD video recording, Auto Lighting Optimizer, and Lens Peripheral Optimization are additional features also enabled by DIGIC 4.
Another high-point of the 60Da is the fully articulated (meaning: flip out and/or swivel) 3" rear LCD screen. That's right; this LCD opens away from the camera and articulates for viewing from multiple angles. You can, of course, choose to leave the LCD in the traditional back of the camera position, but the option to change the angle of the screen without having to move or alter composition is a welcome addition. When you're done shooting, turn the LCD facing inward, and its back cover will even protect the display from damage.
When it comes to low light, or shooting after dark, you want the option to shoot without a flash. Especially because no flash exists to brighten up the Milky Way galaxy, no matter how high you turn it up. Canon gave the 60Da ISO settings from 100-6400, and the option to go up to a stellar 12800 using the custom function. You have more options to choose from, and more opportunity to capture stunningly clear images, even in the low light of night shooting.
What else could Canon fit into this cosmically inspired camera? A short overview includes 5.3 frames per second (fps) of continuous shooting, a 96% coverage viewfinder, a multi-control dial, a 63-zone dual-layer metering system, and a 9-point AF system.
In addition to these user-friendly features, the camera also boasts in-camera photo editing technologies. You'll be able to process RAW files entirely in the camera to produce a separate JPEG file - without a computer or external software. Filters like "Grainy Black-and-White" and "Soft Focus Effect" also allow you to add an artistic touch to your images, sans post-production. Throw in compatibility with Mac and PC, along with a myriad of bundled software options, and the 60Da is one camera that packs a super massive punch.
