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normadel · ‎06-11-2023

I have EOS 50D, 60D, 6D and 7D bodies. Have had the 7D the shortest time.

I just noticed that on the 7D only, the viewfinder image dims greatly with no battery in it. Full brightness with battery. This is whether the camera is turned on or off.

Tried other lenses. Same thing.

Seems like the 7D requires a battery for the lens aperture to be wide open, regardless of the camera being powered or not.

Is this typical/normal for the 7D?

deebatman316 · ‎06-11-2023

Yes the battery must be in the camera for the viewfinder to brighten. Newer cameras only darken the viewfinder if the battery is removed. Most of Canon's higher end cameras use this type of viewfinder display. If the camera has grid lines that can be displayed in the viewfinder. Then the camera has the LCD overlay in it. Also these cameras don't have interchangeable focusing screens either. So other cameras use it too. Not just the 5D Mark IV that was one example of these cameras.

-Demetrius
Bodies: EOS 5D Mark IV
Lenses: EF Trinity, EF 85mm F/1.8 USM
Retired Gear: EOS 40D, EF 50mm F/1.8 STM & EF 70-210mm F/4
Speedlites: 420EX, 470EX-AI, 550EX & 600EX II-RT

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normadel · ‎06-12-2023

Not a surprise that film cameras don't do it. Looks like 50D is the first DSLR.

I wonder why Canon's pro-level DSLRs don't except in OneShot mode? Canon must not think pros need help seeing the focus spot.

deebatman316 · ‎06-12-2023

My 5D Mark IV allows AF Point illumination in AI Servo. My friend's dad used to own the 7D Mark II. I believe he said it illuminates AF Points in AI Servo.

-Demetrius
Bodies: EOS 5D Mark IV
Lenses: EF Trinity, EF 85mm F/1.8 USM
Retired Gear: EOS 40D, EF 50mm F/1.8 STM & EF 70-210mm F/4
Speedlites: 420EX, 470EX-AI, 550EX & 600EX II-RT

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EOS 7D Viewfinder Dims With Battery Removed