Canon EOS 6D Digital Camera Review

Automatic Features

The 6D is remarkably beginner-friendly for a full-frame camera, which makes sense considering this model's potential audience of full-frame first-timers. A fully automatic green mode is available from the mode dial, and deep customization options exist for variables that are automated. For example, it's possible to define a minimum shutter speed for shutter priority, or specific a range of ISO sensitivities to use. It's even possible to let the camera automatically detect whether or not your subject is moving, and toggle the autofocus servo mode accordingly.

Buttons & Dials

The 6D's control scheme is similar to other full-frame options from Canon, save for a few changes, some for the better and some...not. Again we're treated to a long diagonal thumb rest area on the rear panel, which provides easy access to nearby hot keys for AF-On, AE-L, and AF-point. The still/video mode switch is off to the left, surrounding the handy live view button. Below that, where the joystick would've been located on a 7D, we get an array of new buttons, including one to open up a quick menu, as well as playback and zoom keys.

At the bottom of the rear panel, the rotating dial has been redesigned to incorporate a separate directional pad inside the circular wheel. This will take some getting used to, and we wish the directional pad was a lot more robust, but it works as long as you aren't wearing gloves.

Menu

Fans of the Canon interface philosophy will love the 6D's menu system. The main menu is a horizontal tab-based system that's quick and easily navigated via the control wheel. Options are legible and detailed, without being confusing or unintuitive. The quick menu is equally useful, taking advantage of the dual-function rotating dial / directional pad for painless usage.

Coming directly from our D600 review was certainly a jarring transition. Nikon's interfaces are more difficult to use, but more expert-oriented and hands-on. For certain consumers, this could mark an advantage or a disadvantage. Personally, we tend to prefer the way Canon handles their menus, and for relatively new photographers, who might even be splurging on their first SLR, we think this interface is easier to digest.