Just wanted to say what an interesting thread this is. Only made it to page 8 so far but even so I think I've found some tips for my 40d processing as well which is very nice.
I just posted this image in another 7D-related thread. I agree that the 7D has limitations, but excels when reach, or pixel density, is critical along with high IQ. IMO it remains an amazing photographic tool. I use Neat Image or Topaz Denoise as a Photoshop plug-ins for 7D (or any other camera's) noise issues. I used to prefer Topaz, but it's annoyingly slow. Neat Image is quicker. I think I used Neat in this image for mild to moderate noise in the sky.
This very young Bald Eagle was perched far away, and I was unable to get any closer. The longest lens combination I had available was a 300mm 2.8 plus 2x extender. I took this and even with the cropping can print 11 x 14 and even larger while keeping a high degree of sharpness.
I sold my original 7D about a year back, but a few months ago I purchased a refurbished model because I kept finding myself in situations where I wished I still had it.
I have two 7D in my house and have noticed the one purchased earlier is noisier than the newer one, go figure. Anyway, yes I find the files a bit noisy especially when its dull conditions but I need a 1.6 crop camera for the times when I need reach as my longest lens is a 100-400L and I don't see myself carrying bigger heavier lenses around. I just use my 7D for birds and wildlife mainly and after processing have managed to get some very nice images
Ed Swift wrote:
Just wanted to say what an interesting thread this is. Only made it to page 8 so far but even so I think I've found some tips for my 40d processing as well which is very nice.
Glad you found the epic thread interesting, Ed.
brimull wrote:
I just posted this image in another 7D-related thread. I agree that the 7D has limitations, but excels when reach, or pixel density, is critical along with high IQ. IMO it remains an amazing photographic tool. I use Neat Image or Topaz Denoise as a Photoshop plug-ins for 7D (or any other camera's) noise issues. I used to prefer Topaz, but it's annoyingly slow. Neat Image is quicker. I think I used Neat in this image for mild to moderate noise in the sky.
This very young Bald Eagle was perched far away, and I was unable to get any closer. The longest lens combination I had available was a 300mm 2.8 plus 2x extender. I took this and even with the cropping can print 11 x 14 and even larger while keeping a high degree of sharpness.
I sold my original 7D about a year back, but a few months ago I purchased a refurbished model because I kept finding myself in situations where I wished I still had it. ...Show more →
Superb details even with the dark plumage... well done, Brian!
I use the 7D when I need extra "reach" shooting birds and small critters.
I have been impressed with its LACK of noise. Have gotten stunningly
clear close-ups of distant chimps for example. The chimp photos give
you the feeling of being almost face-to-face with them.
However, that said, I use my 5D2 for macro and 5D3 for action as the
5D3 has better AF and better performance at high ISOs.
Long-tailed Shrike (Lanius schach)
Canon 7D + 500 f4 L IS + Canon 1.4x II, 700 mm, ISO 160, 1/400 sec, f/7.1, manual exposure in available light, bean bag, near full frame.
to all the noisy 7D's 
