18MP APS-C Sensor 3 inch LCD Screen Full HD Movie Recording iFCL 63-Zone Metering 100-12800 Expandable ISO Range The Canon EOS 550D is a successful mix of simple-to-use controls, cutting-edge features and a comparatively compact DSLR frame. With the ability to take high quality images using a number of intelligent automatic features, and full manual controls for those wanting to determine the likes of shutter speed and aperture, the EOS 550D is the perfect companion for the newcomer to removable lens cameras. Forming the heart of the EOS 550D is a high resolution 18MP APS-C CMOS sensor, which is a significant leap over the 15MP offered by the EOS 500D. As a result the EOS 550D is capable of taking images expandable far beyond A4 size, or cropped to an impressive degree. The DIGIC 4 processor keeps the shot-to-shot pace at an impressive level, ensuring the 3.7fps burst rate is maintained for as long as possible. The 63 zones metering system has been filtered down from the higher-end Canon EOS 7D and unsurprisingly the results are impressively accurate. Combined with the 9-point AF system the 550D has a high quality feel.The full HD movie mode allows for 1920 x 1080 video to be recorded, with the ability to plug in an external microphone also included. Framing and reviewing images is achieved through the 1040k dot 3inch screen, which is both sharp and detailed with the ability to magnify sections of the display where needed. The chassis of the EOS 550D is small, light and satisfyingly solid-feeling, with all the important controls within a finger’s stretch. There’s little missing in terms of desirable features and few photographers, regardless of the experience level, will be disappointed with the all-round performance of this excellent Digital SLR.