Top controls
Like all Canon dSLRs, the 5D Mark II uses mostly electronic direct-access controls. Though I tend to prefer systems with more dedicated controls--most notably, the metering switches used by Nikon and the Sony Alpha DSLR-A900--Canon's operational metaphor still makes for relatively fluid shooting.
Mode dial
Canon's new Creative Auto mode--a semimanual mode with capabilities you can consider an advanced Auto mode or dumbed-down Program mode, depending upon your viewpoint--seems out of place on a camera in the 5D Mark II's class. But at least Canon didn't jettison a custom setting slot to make room for it as on the 50D.
Rear controls
The best part of Canon's dSLR designs are the the tried-and-true navigational controls, primarily the large thumbwheel and 8-way joystick. The new dedicated display toggle button (top left) is essential for switching into Live View and Movie capture mode.
Connectors
To go with its movie-capture capabilities, the 5D Mark II adds a mic input and HDMI output to the standard set of connectors on its predecessor.
More Galleries
My Favorite Shots From the Galaxy S24 Ultra's Camera
My Favorite Shots From the Galaxy S24 Ultra's Camera
20 Photos
Honor's Magic V2 Foldable Is Lighter Than Samsung's Galaxy S24 Ultra
Honor's Magic V2 Foldable Is Lighter Than Samsung's Galaxy S24 Ultra
10 Photos
The Samsung Galaxy S24 and S24 Plus Looks Sweet in Aluminum
The Samsung Galaxy S24 and S24 Plus Looks Sweet in Aluminum
23 Photos
Samsung's Galaxy S24 Ultra Now Has a Titanium Design
Samsung's Galaxy S24 Ultra Now Has a Titanium Design
23 Photos
I Took 600+ Photos With the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max. Look at My Favorites
I Took 600+ Photos With the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max. Look at My Favorites
34 Photos
17 Hidden iOS 17 Features You Should Definitely Know About
17 Hidden iOS 17 Features You Should Definitely Know About
18 Photos
AI or Not AI: Can You Spot the Real Photos?