More Problems With Canon's High End Cameras

Issues about Mark III cameras were reported throughout the on line photographer communities after the camera's retail launch. These issues related to stripes within the images, Err 99 messages and cursor navigation failure. Canon released a firmware update in an attempt to remedy some of these issues. The EOS-1D Mark III was also the focus of a limited recall notice because it , ummm ... couldn't focus.

That was in September 2007 and at the time Canon noted some cameras

" may have an issue with the mirror mechanism "

Now 2 years later according to many blogs and photography sites the Canon’s 1D Mk III and 1DS MkIII have encountered more problems, quite possibly related to the earlier issues.

Ring shaped spots on images.

The problems are caused by too much lubricant being applied to the internal mirror hinges, this results in oil  ending up on the high-pass filter over the sensor. This produces spots on images. The high price and on going problems with this product make it a less attractive option for professionals. Time is money and photoshoping otherwise good images to remove artifacts produced by the hardware should not be required if you have already shelled out  $4500.

_{The spots displayed on the release don't look large but if it was on your broshure, advertisement or wedding photo I am sure you would notice.}

Canon obviously knows this and has taken action releasing this Service Notice the highlights are below.

Support from Canon:

" We offer our most sincere apologies to customers using these products who have been inconvenienced by this issue. Going forward, we will spare no effort in our quality management to make sure our customers can use our products with confidence. We hope our efforts will earn your understanding."

"We ask that customers who are encountering this phenomenon or, who have noticed that oil is visible on the surface of the back side of the mirror, please contact our Customer Support Center. To prevent oil from scattering, which may seriously affect images, our Customer Support Center will arrange free cleaning of the mirror box to affected customers to remove the excess oil."

So if you own one of these go hit up Canon for a clean and service , it's free.

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