Most of our photography articles are aimed at beginners, but if you've been following us for a while, you might be looking to expand your camera setup with a second body. If you favor Canon cameras, we recommend taking a close look at the Canon EOS 6D Mark II, an interesting option for stepping into the full-frame category, which has seen a discount in recent weeks and should continue to drop in price.
There's no reason to hide it. Full-frame cameras (those with a sensor that matches the classic 35mm format) typically carry a premium that doesn't make them appealing to first-time users, but times have changed, and so have market demands. Several manufacturers have realized there's potential in affordable full-frame options, and one that didn't hesitate to respond was Canon with its EOS 6D Mark II.
Canon EOS 6D Mark II: Compact and with a Great Sensor
Announced in June 2017, the Canon EOS 6D Mark II features a 26.2-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor, backed by the DIGIC 7 image processor. Its ISO sensitivity ranges from 100 to 40,000, with a boost in both directions to 50-102,400, while the shutter speed goes from 1/4,000 to 30 seconds. The main screen is a 3-inch LCD with 1.04 million dots, offering touch support and full articulation. For the viewfinder, there's an optical pentaprism solution, achieving 98 percent coverage.
The autofocus system on the Canon EOS 6D Mark II is in an unusual situation. Technically, it's the same as the one on the Canon EOS 80D, with 45 points total. However, the larger sensor size limits the spread of those points. Dual Pixel is there, but there are conditions you can't fight. What does that mean? If your plan is to shoot sports or other irregular movements, the Canon EOS 6D Mark II might not be the most complete option. The possibility of a firmware update aimed at optimizing autofocus shouldn't be ruled out, though Canon is taking its time.
The right side of the interface on the Canon EOS 6D Mark II is dominated by its secondary LCD, five buttons (AF operation, drive mode, ISO, metering mode, and panel illumination), and the main selection dial. The mode dial and power control are on the left side, an arrangement that essentially reminds us of the Canon EOS 80D. As (almost) always happens with models from this manufacturer, the mode dial on the Canon EOS 6D Mark II is divided into a basic zone and a creative zone. Basic zone entries are limited to Scene Intelligent Auto, Creative Auto 'CA', and Special Scenes 'SCN' (twelve in total). In the creative zone, we have Program 'P', Shutter Priority 'Tv', Aperture Priority 'Av', Manual 'M', Bulb 'B', and two custom entries under 'C1' and 'C2'. For the rest of the details, check the official manual. Its pages are small, but it has over 600 pages, so be patient.
When it comes to video recording, I admit some users will be disappointed. On one hand, the Canon EOS 6D Mark II doesn't record any 4K format, and on the other, its 1080p60 is good, though not stellar. On the bright side, the digital stabilization combined with that of the lens produces steady and consistent videos, the touch controls make focus changes and corrections very easy, and the articulating screen is a pleasure. In summary, video isn't a priority here, but you can work with it until you get acceptable results.
Accessories for Canon EOS 6D Mark II
The current price of the Canon EOS 6D Mark II is around 1,345 euros for the body, or 1,675 euros if you pair it with a 24-105 lens. That's a significant discount compared to the 2,000 euros it cost initially, but it will likely keep dropping. Why? Because these numbers place it at the level of the Nikon D750, older if we go by the calendar, but still preferred by many enthusiasts. Luckily, everything you'd invest in this camera, you save through the accessories.
Batteries and Power
With an average performance of 1,200 shots, the battery on the Canon EOS 6D Mark II isn't a problem, but any user who decides to go all in with this full-frame will want to eliminate the power factor from the equation. A spare Gloxy LP-E6 battery costs just 25 euros, but the same company offers its GX-E21 grip with a second shutter release and two extra batteries for 110 euros.
Backpacks and Bags
The Canon EOS 6D Mark II is quite light and compact compared to other full-frames, but that doesn't mean its weight won't get out of control once you add a lens, battery, card, and (potentially) a grip. Its magnesium alloy body and weather sealing provide two additional advantages, and it's an excellent idea to complement it with a Gloxy Pro AW backpack, specially designed for DSLR cameras thanks to its general design and waterproof cover. Prefer a smaller alternative? Then let me suggest the Genesis Gear Orion, 30 x 20 x 10 centimeters, with solid construction and space for tablets.
Flashes and Lighting
On the Canon EOS 6D Mark II, you won't find any built-in flash, and abundant light for some shots simply isn't negotiable, but don't worry. The Gloxy GX-F1000C professional flash should cover all your needs, and its price-performance ratio makes it very tempting. Now, what about indoors? In that case, the Visico VL-400 Plus studio kit (SKU "0713633211,VisicoFLPAR") will give you an excellent starting point thanks to its 400W flash, the stand, and a translucent umbrella for greater light control.
Tripods and Supports
As I mentioned earlier, stabilization is one of the most positive aspects of the Canon EOS 6D Mark II, but in longer sessions, I'm sure you'll adopt some kind of support. When looking for a tripod for the Canon EOS 6D Mark II, it's hard to resist the Gloxy GX-T6662A, with a very robust aluminum alloy design, a maximum load of 10 kilograms, and non-slip rubber feet. Another option? The Clampod Takeway T2, of course. 40 kilograms of limit, easy to carry everywhere, and a small discount to seal the deal.
Lenses
The lens that comes with the Canon EOS 6D Mark II doesn't disappoint, but if you're really following the second body route, you might want to explore other options. One is the formidable Irix Firefly 15mm, an ultra-wide-angle lens widely recognized for its impressive image quality and notable cost-benefit ratio. The other is a wildcard that extends into telephoto territory, the Tamron 70-300mm f/4.5-6.0 DI LD. Cheap, easy to use, and ideal for casual shooting.
Some portals say it's complicated to recommend the Canon EOS 6D Mark II. Personally, I don't think it's that bad. Time is on its side, the price will keep falling, and the availability of accessories remains at the level we expect from Canon. Also, complaints about image quality are minimal, and from the start, it's clear that this is a full-frame with a complementary profile, designed to make our current setup more flexible and optimized. Good luck!
