Key Features
Aug 18 2008
Announced
21 megapixels
Resolution
Brand | Canon |
Sensor Type | Full frame |
Sensor | CMOS |
Weight | 1385g |
MSRP | $7999USD |
Other similar cameras

Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II
Released Oct 11 2005 | 17MP resolution

Canon EOS-1D Mark III
Released Feb 22 2007 | 10MP resolution

Canon EOS-1D Mark II
Released Jun 14 2004 | 8MP resolution
Overview of the EOS-1Ds Mark III
When it comes to professional cameras, the Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III is a legend in its own right. Its full-frame sensor and exceptional image quality have made it a trusted companion of many photographers. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a budding enthusiast, this camera is sure to impress. Join us as we dive into the nitty-gritty details of the Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III and discover why it has rightfully earned its place in the hall of fame of professional cameras.
Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III Pros and Cons
Now, we will look more closely at our review of the Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III camera. We will see what it can do and compare it to other cameras like it. We will tell you what's good about it and what's not so good. This way, you'll know if it's the camera for you!
Pros
Cons
Build and Construction
Body and dimensions
Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III
Weather sealed | |
Dimensions | 150 x 160 x 80mm |
Weight | 1385g |
Thickness | 80mm |
Weather Sealing
The Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III camera is equipped with environmental seals that make it resistant to weather, preventing water and dust from entering the camera. If you enjoy outdoor photography and need a camera that can handle extreme conditions, the EOS-1Ds Mark III is an excellent choice.
Design and Handling
Main design features
View Finder | Optical (pentaprism) |
Screen Type | Fixed Type |
Screen Resolution | 230k dots |
Body type | Large SLR |
Suitable for:
Photography | Above Avg. |
Videography | Above Avg. |
Travel | Above Avg. |
LCD Screen
This camera has a fixed type 3.00" screen, with a display resolution of 230k dots. This makes the Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III not as suitable for those looking for a vlogging camera as you cannot view yourself while shooting selfies easily. Unfortunately, the camera does not have a touch screen, which may make it less user-friendly.
Viewfinder
EOS-1Ds Mark III includes a optical (pentaprism) viewfinder with no electronic viewfinder of resolution with a coverage of 100% and a magnification of 0.76x. This feature enhances the camera's suitability for outdoor photography in bright conditions.
Image Quality
Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III has a 21MP sized CMOS sensor. You can shoot at maximum resolution of 21 pixels. Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III has a native ISO range of 50 - 3200 which can be boosted to null - null. It can also save files in RAW format which gives you a wider room for post processing.
Key Features
Aug 18 2008
Announced
50 - 3200
ISO Range
Sensor | Full frame |
Extended ISO | null - null |
Max resolution | 5616 x 3744 pixels |
DXO Sensor Scores
Overall
80 / 102
Color Depth
24 / 26.5
Dynamic Range
12 / 14.8
Low Light ISO
1663 / 4505
DXO mark sensor scores
The DXOmark rankings indicate that the Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III camera has excellent color depth performance, which refers to the number of colors the sensor can distinguish. Additionally, its dynamic range is also above average, allowing it to retain low amounts of details in both bright and dark areas of a scene. The camera's low light ISO performance is poor, which is an important factor to consider if you plan to use it in dimly lit indoor environments or at night. Overall the image quality of the EOS-1Ds Mark III is average
Crop Factor
Camera crop factor (or focal length multiplier) refers to how a camera's sensor size affects the apparent field of view of a lens. Crop factor is determined by comparing the size of a camera's sensor to that of a full-frame sensor, which is a standard reference size for camera sensors.
Size comparison
Crop factor calculator
Crop factor
1x
Full frame equivalent
24mm
This camera: Full frame
24mm
Connectivity, storage, battery
Storage | Compact Flash (Type I or II), SD card |
Battery Life | 1800 shots |
Battery Model |
HDMI | |
USD | |
Wireless Connectivity |
Storage
The Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III supports Compact Flash (Type I or II), SD card with 2 slots for storage. Having dual SD card slots on the Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III is highly advantageous as it mitigates the risk of losing footage due to memory card malfunctions. This feature is particularly beneficial for wedding photography and other professional settings.
Battery
The Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III uses the undefined model of battery pack. This is rated for 1800 shots shots which is high. If you intend to take photos or record videos for an extended period, it might be a good idea to bring along additional batteries.
Photography Features
Flash
The Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III does not have a built-in flash, but it does offer a flash shoe that allows you to attach external flashes. This provides more versatility in your lighting choices.
Shutter
The Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III boasts a maximum mechanical shutter speed of 1/8000s, which is ideal for shooting fast-moving subjects in bright environments, such as in sports photography. Faster shutter speeds enable you to freeze the action and capture every detail, making it easier to get the perfect shot.
With a continuous mechanical shutter speed of n/a or an electronic shutter speed of n/a, this camera is not capable of capturing the perfect moment more easily, making it not as suited for wedding, sports, and wildlife photography. Higher shutter speeds make it easier to capture fast-paced action, ensuring that you never miss the perfect shot.
Autofocus
The Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III includes phase detection autofocus (AF), with 45 number of focus points.
While contrast detection is generally more accurate and precise, phase detection autofocus is faster and more effective in most situations, particularly when photographing moving subjects.
Phase detection autofocus works by dividing the incoming light into pairs and then analyzing how they intersect on the camera's sensor. This method allows the camera to determine not only if a subject is in focus but also the direction and distance needed to adjust the focus to achieve perfect sharpness.
On the other hand, contrast detection autofocus works by analyzing the contrast of an image and adjusting the focus until the highest contrast is detected. While this method is very accurate, it can be slow, especially in low light conditions or when photographing moving subjects.
FAQ
The Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III features a CMOS sensor
Yes the EOS-1Ds Mark III does have weather sealing.
The Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III was announced on Aug 18 2008
No the EOS-1Ds Mark III does not have in-body image stabilization that can compensate for camera shake, making it easier to shoot handheld in low light conditions.
The EOS-1Ds Mark III has a native ISO range of 50-3200, which can be expanded to ISO null-null for even greater sensitivity in low light conditions.
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