I have an urgent question for all users of 5d Mk II. If you switch off your camera, what happens then to the light next to the wheel (above the on/off button).

Here's my problem: when I switch off the camera, the light (on page 30 of the manual, they call it the access lamp) goes on. While the camera is on, the access lamp is funtioning as it should, so blinks while reading info to the card. Normally when the access lamp is blinking or on, this would indicate that you cannot open the card slot and cannot open the battery compartiment. Since the lamp switches on when I switch OFF the camera, there is clearly something wrong with the system. According to the manual you may damage the card or camera when you open the card slot or battery compartiment while the access lamp is on. The first day everything seemed to work fine. After switching off the camera, the access lamp switch off as well. When I woke up this morning, I immediately noticed the access lamp was on, while the camera was clearly switch off. I removed the battery, changed memory card, tried taking pictures again, but still no improvement. Anybody had a similar problem? With a D1 or 5D or 5D MKII?

Please advise... Thanks! (Going to Africa soon, so really need to sort this out asap)

I have not noticed this behavior. Have you noticed any other abnormalities? I have seen the access lamp come on briefly when switching the power off, but that lasts for maybe 1/2 of a second, and does not happen again. Is it draining battery life significantly?

Update on the access lamp: tried everything imaginable to get rid of the problem (change lens, CF card, battery, with lens/without lens, ...), but nothing helped. I finally gave in and called Canon. They presume it is a problem with the body. I can exchange it for a new one. I just found out they're expecting a new delivery in the week to come in the UK, so should not be too much of a hassle. (Delivery confirmed by several high street stores. Called them earlier today.)

Thanks for the feedback!

Dont forget to check for the black spots..........on images.......

Better to ask this in the Canon section. The PRO digital corner is supposed to be about the business side of photography although I admit the name is confusing.

BTW, I haven't noticed this behaviour on any of the Canon cameras I've owned / own. Sorry, can't help you out. Maybe you can still swap it for another one at the store you've bought it?