Canon EOS 1200D entry-level DSLR camera launched with tutorial app
Canon has refreshed its entry level dSLR camera with the 1200D, launching it alongside a new tutorial app designed to help amateurs get the most from their new purchase
Canon has launched the EOS 1200D, a new entry-level digital SLR camera aimed at first-time DSLR owners which comes with an accompanying smartphone app designed to help newcomers to the format make their most of their new purchase.
The 1200D, which replaces the current 1100D in Canon’s line-up, has an 18-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, paired with the company’s DIGIC 4 image processor. Like all of Canon’s low-end DSLRs it has a 9-point autofocus system, along with an ISO range of 100-6400 (expandable up to 12800). It has a familiar-looking Canon dSLR body, but weighs a relatively light 480g without a lens attached.
The 1200D is equally equipped to record video with a 1080p Full HD movie mode. You can also shoot in burst mode at up to 3fps. The 3in LCD display is fixed in place, rather than using the Vari-angle LCD found in the more expensive 700D, but purists can of course use the traditional viewfinder to frame their shots if they prefer.
Canon has placed a strong emphasis on simplicity, by putting scene modes right on the mode selection dial. The default Auto mode will choose the correct scene anyway, so first-time users can stick with it initially but get images of much better quality than the average point and shoot camera.
Although the 1200D will be available as a body only, it will most likely prove more popular with the accompanying 18-55mm, f/3.5-5.6 kit lens, which increases the price by £50.
The EOS Companion app, meanwhile, is available for free on Android and iOS. It teaches users where to find specific buttons on the camera, as well as providing a set of step-by-step tutorials to explain the basics of photography. An Inspire section suggests speed and perspective settings to use when shooting specific subjects, while a troubleshooting guide explains how to avoid the most common problems when shooting with a DSLR for the first time including burry or overexposed images.
The 1200D will be available to buy from March onwards, with prices starting from £350 for the body or £399 for the camera and kit lens.