Since thumbing through the author's superb book on the 7D at a local book store, I've been looking forward to this guide to my EOS 5D Mk II, as I found the pocket sized books about this camera from other publishers to be less than satisfactory. This one totally exceeded my expectations, and was well worth the wait. At 474 pages, this one covers an advanced camera from every angle. It not only explains how to use each feature, but is loaded with advice on when to use particular settings, and how to apply them to many situations to take better pictures. It's not simply a re-hash of the Canon manual, like the other books I wasted my money on.
Even the organization of this book is very different. Although there is the traditional "quick start" section, the author then explains how to use some of the more difficult features of the camera, with the extensive reference material on selecting settings tucked away later in the book. That's particularly helpful for the typical buyer of this camera, who might want to learn how to improve their use of the 5D Mk II's capabilities before looking at the different settings.
There are 13 chapters divided into four sections.
Section 1 is a useful introduction with Chapter 1 on setting up your camera; Chapter 2 a Quick Start that shows you how to choose Shooting, Metering, and Focus Modes; and Chapter 3, a roadmap with large illustrations showing every dial, button, and control, and descriptions of what they do. Advanced users can skip this whole section. Those who are new to the 5D Mk II will find it much more helpful than the less detailed equivalent sections found in other books.
Section 2 is "Beyond the Basics," and includes information you won't find elsewhere. Chapter 4 explains exposure, bracketing, and HDR. Chapter 5 is exclusively about autofocus. If you have wondered how autofocus works, the difference between phase detection and contrast detection, and the importance of cross-type focus sensors, you'll find well illustrated explanations here, along a lens tuneup chart you can use to fine tune the focus your your lenses. Chapter 7 includes the best explanation I've seen of Live View and Movie Making.
Section 3 is "Advanced Tools." Herein are two full chapters totaling nearly 100 pages that explain how to customize the performance and operation of your camera with the Shooting, Playback, Set-Up, and Custom Functions menus. Unlike the Canon manual, each option is explained, so you'll know when to use it and why. Chapter 9 is an exhaustive look at using Canon lenses, with evaluations of each one. Two chapters deal with light and electronic flash, including one that finally explains how to use the 5D Mk II for wireless flash.
Section 4, "Enhancing Your Experience" has two chapters about choosing and working with software, and troubleshooting common firmware, memory card, and dirty sensor problems.
I'm so glad this book goes far beyond what we're usually given in a camera guide, and have already learned some useful tricks that have helped me take better pictures with my EOS 5D Mark II.
