Why I’m Keeping My Canon 5D Mark III in 2024
It was good when it came out, and it’s decent still.
EF-LENS MOUNT - A GOOD INVESTMENT
I have always invested my limited photographic budget in lenses before camera bodies. Simply: lenses do more for me than camera bodies do. A strategic lens collection can open doors to any subject, which means more opportunities for me. The Canon EOS 5D Mark III uses the Canon EF-mount, which came out in 1987, making the mount older than me. Lens makers have had decades to build out a robust selection of lenses for EF photographers. Today, these lenses are amazing used deals. For instance, when I wanted to try astrophotography; I found a used Rokinon 14mm F2.8 lens for under $70. And, when I wanted to try portrait photography; I was able to purchase an 85mm F1.8 for around $100. The used deals on EF lenses are endless, and being able to try new photographic domains and keep the budget slim is wonderful for the eager beginner.
My favorite aspect EF lenses are their adaptability. I can mount my EF lenses on almost any modern mirrorless camera. When it’s time to upgrade from the Canon 5D, every lens I previously purchased is still useable. This essentially makes lenses a one-time purchase, which is a financial win. Currently, I’m dabbling in video, and nearly every video-only camera I’m interested in is offered in an EF-mount option! In all, investing in an EF mount lens setup is budget friendly and future-proof.
ACTUALLY BUILT TO LAST
The 5D Mark III is built to last. Mine has lasted 12 years and is still running at 100%. It’s fair to say that the camera has withstood the test of time. For the most part, my 5D is like-new. There’s a few scratches here and there, but no degradation of the weather sealing or changes in the magnesium body. Internally, the mirror, shutter, and viewfinder glass are free of scratches, dust, and function to specification. Rumor has it the shutter in the 5D Mark III should keep going to over 300,000 shutter actuations (think of this as a camera’s odometer equivalent). If that’s true; at my usage rate my 5D should last for over 25 years.
The first thing you notice when you pick up the 5D is the sheer weight and density of the camera. I’d reckon you could use the body as a self-defense tool and come out scratch free, but I have no liability warranting this claim. The 5D is rated for use in wet, cold, and dusty environments, and I’ve certainly taken it to extremes and zero issues have arisen from the abuse. The build quality of the 5D is likely never going to cause issues for me, so that’s a huge compliment to this Canon’s longevity.
LEGENDARY IMAGE QUALITY
Twelve year old photo tech shouldn’t be this good. Simply — The 5D Mark III takes very-good to great photos. Compared to newer camera offerings from Sony, Nikon, and Canon themselves; you can visually see the sensor is aging. Comparing samples side-to-side, I’ve noticed dynamic range, color reproduction, and raw file malleability being the largest differentiators. But, in certain conditions the difference is negligible. As in: I can’t tell the difference. Often I’m very pleased with the images this camera makes. The way this camera reproduces colors, the legendary Canon Color science, is truly something to behold. When taking portraits, the graduation in skin-tone reproduction is stunning. Faces are the right amount of vibrant and detailed. Truly, I’d reckon the 5D line is where Canon gained their famous color science reputation.
The 5D Mark III has a SD Card slot and a CF Card slot, the latter is an old standard for card storage and the former card type is more current. The 5D can write both JPG files and CR2 (RAW) files to both cards simultaneously, sort raw to one card and jpeg to the other, or use the second card as an overfill. This dual card setup and writing features are close to what most pro cameras use today. And for professional applications, the twelve year old 5D MK3 still measures up.
I’d only shoot the 5D MK3 in RAW. The CR2 files are actually quite versatile. In recovering highlights and shadows, you can push the files reasonably far. Assuming the image was correctly exposed, I’ve never had a file in post that is uneditable due to RAW limitations. Compared to newer cameras, you can see the limitations of the sensor, but the way the 5D MK3 rolls off the highlights and smooths out shadows, the results are organic and almost film-like.
Another perk of the Mark 3’s sensor is the new HIGH ISO options. For the 3rd generation, Canon opened up ISO 204,500. As expected, the results are noisy, smudgy, and not excellent. But with some processing magic, I am able to create very usable images! I’d rather have the capability and choose not to use it than not have the option in the first place.
VIDEO - YMMV
I almost considered skipping this entirely. But, then I remembered Magic Lantern. The stock Canon 5D’s video quality is 1080p at 30FPS, and is decent for an Instagram thumbnail, but past that it’s not worth mentioning. However, Magic Lantern software can bump that from an F to maybe a B. Magic Lantern is a custom software users can install on their Canon 5D and unlock video features. The software is from a 3rd party and not endorsed by Canon. Magic Lantern lets users choose near 4K resolutions and a bevy video formats. If you want focus peaking, raw video codecs, and zebras then Magic Lantern is a legitimate solution. But, if you’re just starting out with video, perhaps consider a camera that doesn’t require installing custom software to unlock features you’re just starting to work with.
SHOULD YOU BUY IT?
The 5D Mark III remains a formidable 35mm full-frame digital camera. Sure it’s at a disadvantage with its circa-2012 sensor restricting its dynamic range and autofocus performance. But the body is loaded with pro-grade features like a dual card slots, pc sync port, and vertical grip options. The EF lens mount opens a whole range of great lens options to invest in, and take with you into the future. If you’re coming from a smartphone, and are interested in creating professional looking portraits, landscapes, and social media photos, then the 5D will greatly improve the quality of your work. If you want to make professional video, photograph fast-moving subjects, and need a camera that is compact and modern, the 5D Mark III is not going to work.
What kind of person would benefit from a 5D Mark III? Me, I do. But I know exactly what I’m using the camera for. I just want a full-frame camera to make still portraits with. I don’t need WiFi, fast performance, or any video features at all. As an enthusiast, I am satisfied. But for folks seeking something to keep pace with current professional gear, the 5D MK3 is losing its edge to more capable and affordable new cameras.
For people looking for a full-frame digital camera with affordable lens options; yes, the Canon 5D Mark III shouldn’t be overlooked. The still image results are very nice. Just understand that this is aging tech, and at some point this is going to be obsolete. While the 5D Mark III is far from dead, pause and consider how it fits into your long-term photographic strategy before jumping to buy one.