Hi,
I've currently got a 20D and a 40D.
My daily lens is the Canon 24-70L F2.8
My favoured outdoor portrait lens is the Canon 100mm f2.8 macro.
Lighting setup
- 430ex
- a few yn460-2
- elinchrom lights
- lastolite backdrop
- rf602s
In terms of comparison between the 20D and the 40D. the 40D
- fits my hand better
- the larger screen is a pleasure to work with
- has about a stop better 'acceptable' ISO
- has sensor cleaning which works well.
- has equally easy to use controls.
- similar image quality
I only shoot in manual or aperture priority modes so being able to adjust settings quickly - preferably without taking my eye from the viewfinder - is essential. I do not have time to faff around through menus and on screen displays and repetitive single button presses to alter a minor setting.
So for the most part its damn fine.
Improvements that I would wish for in my next camera (in no specific order)...
- full frame.
- a larger & clearer viewfinder.
- dual memory card slots for peace of mind
- better ISO
- Better low light AF
- AF that works on more places than just the centre point.
- AF microadjust ( as I spent about £180 getting lenses and 20D calibrated for a back focus issue)
However, since the above costs in the order of £5k I'm quite happy with a
second hand £400 40D that I bought last year with about 300 actuations on it.
Other than canons 1dx there is nothing else in canons range that tempts me with the features I want. But thats a heck of a price!
Its worth noting that the 5d2 would be a downgrade from the 40D in terms of shutter synch speed when doing my studio work. Its low light AF when I tried it out is not as good as I'd like either so is therefore not an option.
Unfortunately that raises the question of brand loyalty as Nikons features on paper seem to tick my boxes more. Once I see the 5d3 and d800 offerings and had a play around with them I'll be in a better place to make my decision.
But to sum up, for the money, the 40D is one hell of a good camera!
Be sure to match it with good gLass for best results.