Canon Rebel T6 Review (Canon EOS 1300D): an inexpensive mirror reflex option
Pros And Cons Of The Canon Rebel T6 (EOS 1300D)
Pros
- WLAN and NFC
- Autofocus when using the viewfinder
- Good price-performance ratio
Cons
- Autofocus in Live View mode
- Not many new features introduced
- Video mode is very rudimentary
The Canon Rebel T6 (EOS 1300D) is a cheap entry into the SLR segment. With the EF-S 18-55 mm IS II lens, the price rises more. [Photo: Canon]
The Canon Rebel T6 (EOS 1300D) has a 9-point autofocus as well as a somewhat aged continuous shooting function with three frames per second. [Photo: Canon]
In addition to the pentas mirror viewfinder, which is only 0.5 times larger than the 35mm, the Canon Rebel T6 (EOS 1300D) offers a live image on its 7.5 centimetre screen. [Photo: Canon]
For beginners, the Canon Rebel T6 (EOS 1300D) offers automatic scene control, while more experienced or experimental photographers can use semi-automatic and manual modes. [Photo: Canon]
The 22.3 x 14.9 millimeter CMOS sensor is 1.6 times smaller than the 35mm full format, so the focal lengths shift to 35mm equivalent focal lengths by this factor. The 18-55mm set lens thus corresponds to a 35mm lens with a focal length of 29-88 millimetres.
Image processing is provided by the somewhat older DIGIC 4+ image processor. Its computing power is sufficient for three serial images per second. Thanks to fast storage on SD/SDHC/SDXC cards, up to 1110 JPEG photos can be taken at a time, whereas in Raw the “fast” series of shots ends after just six shots.
The Canon Rebel T6 (EOS 1300D) is one of the cheapest DSLRs in the test. The equipment and features are correspondingly scarce. But the SLR camera is always suitable for getting started. After all, everything necessary for taking pictures is on board and the image quality is quite good.
But the Canon EOS 1300D would have stood up well to more innovations than an improved display as well as WLAN and NFC.
The autofocus of the Canon EOS 1300D works with nine measuring fields (including a central cross sensor), but only if you use the 0.8x magnifying pentascope viewfinder, which covers 95 percent of the image field. The magnification corresponds to 0.5 times the viewfinder magnification in 35mm equivalent.
Alternatively, a live image covering 100 percent of the image field can be viewed on the fixed, 920,000 pixel resolution, 7.5-centimeter screen. Here a slower contrast autofocus is available.
The EOS 1300D records videos in maximum Full HD resolution (1,920 x 1,080) at 24, 25 or 30 frames per second. In HD resolution (1,280 x 720), a refresh rate of 60 and 50 frames per second is also available.
With built-in WLAN and NFC, the EOS 1300D connects wirelessly to a smartphone or tablet. Using the Canon Camera Connect app, images can be transmitted wirelessly and remote control of the camera including live image transmission is also supported.
Further details about the Canon Rebel T6 (EOS 1300D) can be found in our detailed technical data sheet, right below.
Cheaper than with the Canon Rebel T6 (EOS 1300D) you get no current DSLR. For the current price, there is solid technology that is more than sufficient for entering or changing to the DSLR segment. The fact that the price leaves little room for innovation is the downside of the Canon Rebel T6 (EOS 1300D). But one thing at a time.
Entry-level cameras are made from simpler materials. While magnesium is often used for higher-quality models, the Canon Rebel T6 (EOS 1300D) has to make do with fiberglass-reinforced polycarbonate resin. In view of the lower price and the classification as an entry-level model, however, we do not see any problems in this respect.
Due to its rubberized and slightly ergonomically shaped handle and the rubberized thumb rest on the back, the Canon Rebel T6 (EOS 1300D) fits well in the hand, all keys are quite large.
The SLR camera can be operated completely with the right hand, all buttons and dials can be reached from the thumb or index finger.
The 458 gram Canon Rebel T6 (EOS 1300D) impresses with its compact dimensions. It measures just 129 x 101 x 77 mm. But this does not detract from the ultra-modern technology inside at all.
The camera is equipped with a CMOS sensor that achieves a maximum of 17.9 megapixels. This corresponds to a maximum resolution of 5184 x 3456 pixels. Perfectly sufficient for beginners and also more ambitious hobbyists.
When photographing, several aspects stand out positively at the same time. So you can work with a minimum shutter speed of 1/4000 sec. Also interesting are recordings with 30 s.
But the whole thing’s gonna get a boost. This makes it possible to take pictures with a maximum ISO value of 12,800. A strong value that does not always exist in this price range.
Furthermore, the long battery life, the 3.0 frames per second, and the very high-resolution display of 920,000 pixels should also be mentioned.
With the Canon Rebel T6 (EOS 1300D), you can take more than just photos. Even videos in Full HD resolution can be created at any time. If you only want to take short video snapshots, the Canon camera is also the best choice. The mode for such recordings is already integrated by default.
Ergonomics And Workmanship For The Canon Rebel T6 (EOS 1300D)
The polycarbonate case cannot be criticized. Nothing wobbles or creaks. The workmanship is really of very good quality.
The operating menu is as usual from Canon, well structured and self-explanatory. However, the operation is only carried out via the attached keys. The camera does not have a touch screen.
The 9-point AF with center AF point works quietly and reliably. It may not be one of the fastest cameras in its class, but what can you expect from one of the cheapest cameras on the market? That’s why we don’t give you a minus point for this.
The 7.5 cm (3.0 inch) screen also speaks for the good handling. It reproduces the colors in detail and shines with 920,000 pixels.
Last but not least, the integrated WLAN and NFC functions underline the optimized handling. This means that images can be transferred to the smartphone immediately after they have been taken. Of course, the camera can also be controlled via a smartphone. A great function that we don’t want to miss anymore.
Advantages and disadvantages of the Canon Rebel T6 (EOS 1300D)
The sensor is the same as it was used in the predecessor models. So you don’t have to worry about image quality. It has always been good and it is also in the new Canon Rebel T6 (EOS 1300D).
The operation and handling are completely convincing. You don’t notice the missing touch screen. Everything can be implemented quickly and easily using the control buttons. It would still be nice if the display would unfold. But you can also do without this. There are, however, slight deductions for this.
But what the camera really lacks is a GPS function. Especially when traveling, this is so helpful. Besides, the lightning could be a tick stronger. But such trifles should not be interpreted as a negative point at this low price.
General View Of The Canon Rebel T6
On the upper side of the DSLR, the aperture/shutter speed is adjusted with an adjustment wheel, and the integrated flash can also be unfolded using the only button located there. Like all integrated models, this is of course only suitable for brightening up closer scenes.
With the possibility of flash exposure correction (+/- 2 steps) and the choice to flash on the first or second shutter, however, the basic functions are offered. If you need more options or higher performance, you can, of course, use the accessory shoe to attach a system flash.
with a grippy side surface so that it can be turned comfortably. All 13 photo programs and also the video mode is reached over it. As usual with a beginner model, the fully automatic mode (marked with a green A+) and the scene modes for special shooting situations are in the foreground. Of the latter, there are a total of eight.
This includes a flash off mode, a portrait mode or a sport mode. The PSAM modes are available for advanced photographers.
These allow – depending on the program – the selection of the sensor sensitivity and/or the aperture or the exposure time. If you want to record videos, you have to select the video mode and press the Liveview button on the back. Outside the video mode, this switches to the Liveview view.
The buttons on the rear panel can be used to change the shooting mode (single shot, continuous advance, self-timer), sensor sensitivity, white balance, etc., if this is possible in the selected photo program.
All important photo options are also summarized in the quick menu (accessible via the Q-key). Good: Here you will find short descriptions of the individual functions.
The main menu is used less frequently in everyday photo work and is mainly used to make basic settings. It is divided into different tabs, symbols indicate where to find which options. The menu structure could be a bit more logical, but basically you will find your way around. Good: If you use individual parameters frequently, you can register them for the “My Menu” and reach them quickly and easily.
Creative filters can of course also be applied to the Canon Rebel T6 (EOS 1300D) images, but only after shooting. In addition to a granularity B/W filter and a “blur”, a “fisheye” effect is also available.
Focus
Let’s get to the focus: The phase comparison autofocus, which is used when looking through the viewfinder, has nine fields of view. The middle one is a cross sensor, the other eight are line sensors. These can only focus on horizontal or vertical contrasts. The cross sensor is capable of both.
In general, focusing is possible with the Canon Rebel T6 (EOS 1300D) (speed) up to an open aperture of F5.6. The AF thus moves on the level usual for a beginner camera, one should not expect too much. However, those who mainly use the middle measuring field will be able to get by with what they have bid. As an alternative to phase AF, the DSLR also supports contrast measurement for focusing in live view and video mode. You can find out what there is to consider here on the summary page.
Exposure metering
For exposure metering, the EOS 1300D has a 63-zone metering system. In addition to multi-field and center-weighted integral measurements, a selective measurement can also be selected. With the shutter speed, you can choose between 30 seconds and 1/4,000 seconds. Bulb mode is also offered for a long time exposure.
Canon has doubled the resolution of the display from 460,000 to 920,000 subpixels compared to the previous model. This step is noticeable in significantly increased sharpness. What has remained the same, however, is the fixed construction, which means that the LCD cannot be rotated or swiveled.
Also missing is the touch surface familiar from many other Canon cameras. The viewing angles of the LCD are at least praiseworthy. Even when viewed obliquely, the colors do not change.
Image Quality Analysis For The Canon Rebel T6
The heart of the system is the APS-C-sized image sensor with an impressive 18 megapixels. The Canon Rebel T6 (EOS 1300D) serves a maximum of 1,578 line pairs per image height with minimum light sensitivity.
Recordings, therefore, appear crisp and sharp. Shots up to and including ISO 1,600 appear to be low-noise and rich in detail. So it works to leave the nine-meter wide-brightening flash folded in and use the atmospheric ambient light instead.
Scene and creative modes make it possible to adjust the Canon Rebel T6 (EOS 1300D) according to the scenes even without prior technical knowledge thanks to the utilization of the scene modes. Advanced users may venture into the (semi-)manual modes.
Fast, only with a viewfinder
For image control and Full HD shooting at 30 frames per second, a sharp 3.0-inch display adorns the back of the Canon EOS 1300D. The Live View mode is hardly suitable for photographing because of the very sluggish autofocus.
Only when the viewfinder is used do the nine focus fields, including a cross sensor, provide pleasantly fast focus. The serial recording can hardly be described as such: Only three frames per second with six JPEGs and only three RAWs per series feel clearly too limited for dynamic motifs.
Finished works can then be transferred wirelessly via WLAN and NFC to smartphones and tablets – the only new feature compared to the predecessor model Rebel T5 (EOS 1200D), apart from the improved screen resolution.

Canon Rebel T6 (EOS 1300D): The battery can cope with up to 1,150 releases, only just under 400 with Live View use.
The camera body of the Canon Rebel T6 (EOS 1300D) corresponds to that of the predecessor model Canon EOS 1200D (test report). With 12,9 x 10,1 x 7,8cm it is just as big, also with the weight, there is no difference with 485g.
On the upper right side of the polycarbonate resin housing, you will find an aperture/exposure time dial, a button to open the integrated flash, the program dial and the on/off switch on the side. The program selector wheel has been slightly modified in comparison to the 1200D, and the Canon Rebel T6 (EOS 1300D) now also offers the “Food” scene mode.
On the back, all controls are positioned to the right of the 3.0-inch LCD. Above that, one gets to the live view mode or started/finished videos, one can, among other things, correct the exposure, call up the quick menu and adjust the display insertions. The control pad on the SLR camera allows you to select the shooting mode, sensor sensitivity, AF mode, and white balance.
The middle set key is the only key that can be freely assigned one of four options. The buttons below the control cross can be used to display the main menu and switch to playback mode. Not to forget the two buttons on the back right of the thumb rest. These are used, among other things, to store the exposure and AF area selection.
The battery and memory card is located in a compartment on the underside of the DSLR, the interfaces (jack connector for a remote control, mini-USB and mini-HDMI) are accessed behind a rubber flap on the left side of the camera.
The Canon Rebel T6 (EOS 1300D) was the first Canon entry-level SLR camera to be
equipped with WLAN and NFC. This allows you to connect to a mobile device. With the Camera Connect App from Canon, wireless image transmission, as well as remote control, are possible.
The technical features of the Canon Rebel T6 (EOS 1300D)
The following are the special features and characteristics of the camera.







Speed
Our speed tests always test the continuous shooting mode, which is possible at full image quality and resolution. The tests are always carried out under the best shooting conditions and good brightness (exposure time per shot approx. 1/500 second).
Attributes | Camera 1 | Camera 2 | ||
Camera |
Canon Rebel T6 (EOS 1300D) |
Canon EOS 1200D |
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Lens used | Canon EF-S 18-55mm F3,5-5,6 IS II | Canon EF-S 18-55mm F3,5-5,6 IS II | ||
Picture | ![]() |
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Memory card used | Lexar Professional SDHC 2,000x (300MB/sec) UHS-II Class 10 64GB | Toshiba SDHC UHS-II EXCERIA PRO 260/240MB/S 16GB UHS-II | ||
Continuous shooting in best resolution and best quality Exposure time : approx. 1/500 second incl. focusing AF-S |
JPEG | 3.0 fps until memory card full | JPEG | 3.0 fps until memory card full |
RAW | 3.0 frames/s. for approx. 7 frames, then 1.0 frames/s. until memory card full | RAW | 2.8 frames/sec. for about 7 frames, then 0.9 frames/sec. to memory card full | |
JPEG+RAW | 3.0 frames/sec. for approx. 5 frames, then 0.8 frames/sec. until memory card full | JPEG+RAW | 2.7 frames/sec. for approx. 5 frames, then 0.7 frames/sec. until memory card full | |
Shutter release delay without focusing |
0.11 secondsLive View: 0.10 seconds |
0.10 secondsLive View: 0.10 seconds |
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Focusing time without release delay. |
0.15 seconds live View: 3.54 seconds |
0.15 secondsLive View: 2.07 seconds |
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Switch-on time of the digital camera until the display is completely ready |
1.56 seconds | 1.67 seconds | ||
Switch-on time of the digital camera and immediate triggering incl. shutter release delay and focusing |
0.87 seconds | 0.51 seconds |
Efficiency of the optical image stabilizer
We test the optical image stabilizer on every digital camera at full optical zoom performance, maximum resolution, and maximum image quality level. The following applies: every shot is taken freehand.
without image stabilizer | with image stabilizer |
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Conclusions
The Canon Rebel T6 (EOS 1300D) is a lightweight, compact camera that’s great for shooting and filming.
The many features speak for the affordable entry-level model from Canon. However, if you are looking for a professional device, you should look around in a different price range.
Much more important is that the model is affordable even for a small purse, the camera is well equipped and easy to use. All in one a good camera for entry into the world of SLR cameras.
Short Evaluation Of The Canon Rebel T6
- Pros
- WLAN and NFC.
- Autofocus when using the viewfinder.
- Good price-performance ratio.
- Cons
- Autofocus in Live View mode.
- Few new features.
- Video mode is very rudimentary
Datasheet Of The Canon Rebel T6
Electronics |
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Sensor | CMOS sensor APS-C 22.5 x 15.0 mm (crop factor 1.6) 18.7 megapixels (physical) and 18.0 megapixels (effective) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Pixel pitch | 4.3 µm | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Photo resolution |
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Picture formats | JPG, RAW | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Color depth | 24 bits (8 bits per color channel), 42 bits (14 bits per color channel) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Metadata | Exif (version 2.3), DCF standard | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Video resolution |
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Maximum recording time | 29 min 59 sec | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Video format |
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Lens |
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Lens mount |
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Focusing |
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Autofocus mode | Phase-comparison autofocus with 9 sensors, one cross sensor and 8 line sensors, contrast autofocus | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Autofocus Functions | Single autofocus, Continuous autofocus, Tracking autofocus, Manual, AF auxiliary light (flash volley), Focus magnifier (10x) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Focus control | Depth of field control, dimming button | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Viewfinder and Display |
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Reflex viewfinder | Reflex viewfinder (95 % image coverage), 21 mm eye relief with 0.8 x magnification (0.5 x KB equivalent), diopter compensation (-2.5 to +0.5 dpt) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Display | 3.0″ (7.5 cm) TFT LCD monitor with 920,000 pixels, viewing angle 170°, brightness adjustable | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Exposure |
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Exposure metering | Center-weighted integral measurement, matrix/multi-field measurement over 63 fields, spot measurement (measurement over 10 % of the image field), AF-AE coupling | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Exposure times | 1/4,000 to 30 s (automatic) 1/4,000 to 30 s (manual) Bulb function | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Exposure control | Fully automatic, Program automatic, Aperture automatic, Time automatic, Manual | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Bracketing function | Bracket function with maximum 3 shots, step size from 1/3 to 2 EV | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Exposure compensation | -5.0 to +5.0 EV with step size from 1/3 to 1/2 EV | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Sensitivity to light | ISO 100 to ISO 6.400 (automatic) ISO 100 to ISO 12.800 (manual) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Remote access | Remote release, cable release, remote control via smartphone/tablet | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Scene modes | Automatic, Landscape, Night Portrait, Close-up, Portrait, Food, Sports/Action, 1 additional scene mode is available | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Picture effects | Fisheye, miniature effect, monochrome, toy camera, blur, 8 picture styles | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
White balance | Auto, Cloudy, Sun, White balance bracketing, Fine-tuning, Shadow, Flash, Fluorescent lamp, Incandescent light, Manual | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Color space | Adobe RGB, sRGB | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Continuous shooting | Continuous shooting function max. 3.0 frames/s at the highest resolution and max. 1,110 stored photos, 6 RAW images in succession | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Self-timer | Self-timer at intervals of 2 s, special features: or 10 s (optional) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Shooting functions | AEL function, live histogram | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Flashgun Of The Canon Rebel T6 |
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Flash | built-in flash (hinged) flash shoe: Canon, standard center contact | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Flash range | The flash sync time is 1/200 s | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Flash number | Guide number 9 (ISO 100) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Flash functions | Auto, Fill Flash, Flash On, Flash Off, Slow Sync, Flash On Second Shutter Curtain, Red-Eye Reduction, Flash Exposure Compensation from -2.0 EV to +2.0 EV | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Equipment And Features For The Canon Rebel T6 |
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Image stabilizer | When the lens system offers an optical image stabilizer the T6 supports it for video recording. It does not offer in-body electronic image stabilization | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Memory |
SD (SDHC, SDXC)
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Microphone | Stereo | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Power supply | Yes, there is a power supply connection | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Power supply | 1 x Canon LP-E10 (lithium-ion (Li-Ion), 7.4 V, 950 mAh) 500 CIPA-standard images | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Playback Functions | Protect image, highlights/shadow warning, playback histogram, playback magnifier with 10.0x magnification, image index, slideshow function with music | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Special functions | Electronic Spirit Level, Grid Display, Orientation Sensor, Live View, User Profiles with 1 User Profile and 11 Options | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Ports | Data interfaces: USB USB type: USB 2.0 High-Speed WLAN: available NFC : available |
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AV connectors | AV output: HDMI output Mini (Type C), USB/AV output Audio input: no Audio output: no | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Supported direct printing methods | Canon Direct Print, PictBridge | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Tripod socket | 1/4″ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Features and Miscellaneous | DIGIC-4+ Signal Processor Simultaneous JPEG and RAW recording possible Auto Lighting Optimizer (4 settings) |
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Size and weight |
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Dimensions W x H x D | 129 x 101 x 78 mm | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Weight | 485 g (ready for operation) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Other |
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included accessories | Canon eyecup Ef (eyecup)Canon IFC-130U USB cableCanon LC-E10E Charger for special batteriesCanon LP-E10 special batteryCanon RF-3 (housing cover) Software: Raw Processing Digital Photo Professional, EOS Utility |
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optional accessory | Canon ACK-E10 Power Supply UnitCanon LP-E10 Special Battery |
Kevin Knaus
Wednesday 14th of June 2023
you mention live mode but do not say how to engage it.