The Canon 550D uses an 18 megapixel APS-C size sensor and includes many of the video features from the Canon 7D which will make it a very interesting camera to use. Being able to shoot 24/25fps and 50/60fps as well will be a great creative boost especially as these variations are yet to come to the Canon 5D mark2.
Some of the key advantages of the Canon 550D over the 500D for shooting video are:
- External microphone can be added (not on 500D)
- Full HD at all frame rates (Canon 500D was limited to 20fps)
- Full manual control of exposure
- 1080p at up to 30fps
- 720p at 50/60fps
- Digic 4 processor
Canon say "The EOS 550D combines exceptional still shooting with the ability to shoot Full HD (1080p) video. To satisfy your creativity the EOS 550D features full manual control and selectable frame rates. You can also shoot high speed 50/60fps movies at 720P for when the action is really fast. An HDMI connection allows High Definition playback of footage and images on any HDTV. Also with compatible TVs playback can be controlled using the TV’s remote control."
