Canon’s EOS 20D, targeted at professional and high-end amateur users, represents a new generation of digital SLR camera. Inheriting and expanding on the exceptional functionality of the EOS 10D, released in March 2003, the new EOS 20D reaches new heights in both image quality and camera responsiveness. The EOS 20D incorporates a newly developed large APS-C-size (22.5 x 15.0 mm) CMOS sensor with 8.2-million effective pixels and,maximizing the performance potential of the sensor, Canon’s new proprietary DIGIC II image engine. The DIGIC II image engine performs detailed processing of large-volume data at extremely high speeds, satisfying demands for high image quality and definition, natural color reproduction, and responsiveness from advanced-amateur and professional users alike. Coupling superlative image quality with speed, the EOS 20D enables continuous shooting of high-quality (JPEG large/fine) images at around 5 fps for up to 23 consecutive shots. Further contributing to stress-free use is a fast startup time of just 0.2 seconds, a maximum shutter speed of 1/8000 second, and the high-speed writing of image files to the CompactFlash card media. Also, a USB 2.0 Hi-Speed external interface combines with the DIGIC II image engine and enhanced digital circuitry to enable file transfers at up to ten times previous transfer speeds.
Advanced shooting features include a high-speed 9-point wide-area autofocus (AF) with focusing points superimposed in the viewfinder that make accurate framing simple. Enabling ideal white balance performance and a range of effects equivalent to Canon’s flagship EOS-1D Mark II, the new EOS 20D offers six lighting presets (Daylight, Shade, Cloudy, Tungsten light, Fluorescent light, and Flash), three freely settable Custom Modes, and a Color Temperature setting, in addition to an enhanced-performance Auto Mode.

Other features contributing to the EOS 20D’s boosted shooting functionality include: expanded processing parameters enabling black-and-white image conversion; compatibility with the entire range of Canon EF lenses, including EF-S models; and Canon’s E-TTL II flash metering system which, when used with Canon’s EX-series Speedlite flashes, utilizes distance information provided through the lens for more precise and stable direct-flash exposure than ever before.
The Canon EOS 20D features magnesium-alloy body covers for exceeding rigidity and durability, while a total design revision and reduction in the overall number of parts used has resulted in smaller body dimensions. Compared with the EOS 10D, the new camera’s width, height and depth are around 5.7, 2.0 and 3.5 mm smaller, respectively, while weightsavings amount to 105 g, for easier handling. Moreover, the camera’s back panel features a new easy-to-use “multi-controller,” enabling users to control camera settings -including white balance correction and bracketing, AF point selection and, when direct printing, the image trimming frame – with a minimum of effort.
Canon’s new EOS 20D digital SLR camera offers an extensive range of optional accessories to extend camera performance, including the Battery Grip BG-E2. Accepting up to two Nickel-Metal Hydride (Ni-MH) batteries, the battery grip provides users with enough power to capture up to around 2,000 images. The unit also features a vertical-hold grip with auxiliary shutter release for easy shooting in both a vertical or horizontal position. Moreover, in response to user demand, the BG-E2 accepts six AA-size alkaline batteries, allowing users to take advantage of this readily available energy source. Also, offering compatibility with the PictBridge industry standard for direct photo printing, the EOS 20D enables users to connect the camera directly to any PictBridge-enabled printer, regardless of brand, and print out photos (JPEG) without having to use a computer.