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One received, the image data is transferred to a DIGIC II image processor, working to create a more naturalistic rendering of the image. The DIGIC II processor is used to gain speed in processing and recording as well as working to increase color gradations and vibrancy. The camera strives to produce "high definition at high resolution with extremely low levels of false color artifacts."
Elaborate settings and customized options provide flexibility and opportunity for image precision. With five preset and two custom color matrix settings, the 1Ds Mark II takes color rendition to a level beyond the five customized options available on its preceding model, the EOS-1Ds. To help provide exactitude of color values, there is a nine-step +/- White Balance control, granting the user complete control of the tone. There is also a three-stop white balance bracketing option available as well as bias compensation for blue/amber and green/magenta tones. There are a total of 10 white balance settings in all.


To provide the necessary shooting responses, the EOS-1Ds Mark II amply supplies a wide range of shutter speeds to accommodate long exposures as well as rapid use. With speeds ranging from 30 seconds to 1/8000 of a second, the desired exposure duration is at the user’s disposal. The variations in-between can be customized by the user in 1/3, ½, or full step increments.
There is a 45-point automatic focusing system, 21-zone metering sensor working with E-TTL-II flash metering technology. The camera is fully compatible with TS-E and MP-E lenses along with the entire line of EF lenses, with the exception of EF-S styling. The EOS-1Ds Mark II is compatible with all EX speedlites and E-TTL wireless autoflash system, utilizing the E-TTL II flash control system designed to perceive dimensionality in regions of the image beyond single points. This allows the sensor to more accurately gauge the illumination necessary for specific areas of the composition. This is achieved through the use of 17 metering zones measuring the refracted light throughout the frame.
Since "The EOS-1Ds Mark II camera offers the world’s highest pixel count in a 35mm, full-sized digital AF SLR camera," the files are enormous. There are five image quality settings or size options on the 1Ds Mark II: RAW (16.6 MP - 4992x3328), Large JPEG (16.6MP), Medium 1 JPEG (8.6 MP), Medium 2 JPEG (6.3MP), and small JPEG (4.2 MP). The Raw and Large JPEG files can be recorded simultaneously when desired; both files open in Photoshop at 47MB. The advantage of these large files and pixel count is that they will result in 16x24 inch prints or perhaps larger with no noticeable degradation of quality.
Customization is a key element to the 1Ds Mark II’s design, working to create an imager that is tailored to its user. Containing 20 Custom Functions, 65 settings and 27 personal functions that can be saved to the camera directly, stored on a memory card, or uploaded from external software.
There are two media card slots available to save data to, providing the user the option to utilize a Compact Flash (Type I or II) or SD card simultaneously or individually for expanded memory. There are also outputs to an external computer, TV monitor, a USB port, Direct Print options for BJ Direct, CP Direct, and PictBridge compatible printers. An optional WFT-E1 Wireless File Transmitter can be used with a mini antenna to grant photographers the freedom to transfer information remotely.
The camera body will be available for shipping in November for just under US$8000.