Video Crop mode on the Canon EOS 550D

I noticed this mode when I first got the camera, but ignored it, well actually I wrote it off as a useless feature, mainly because I didn't bother to try it out.

So anyway, today I gave it a bash and OH MY GOD! What this does is akin to a digital zoom, but without actually compromising resolution.

Below is a video of a quite small fly (around 4mm long) shot from a distance of approximately 6 inches. It's a bit shaky because it's shot hand held, which isn't easy especially in this mode.

Forgot to say, it's shot with the kit lens (18-55)



Now, I am not the best videographer in the world, but I am sure anyway who watches the video can see the potential of this mode

*** There is a typo in the title, it should say EOS 550D not 50D ***

Hope you liked the video anyway,
Alan.

Looks like a neat mode Alan!

It is Azz

Thanks for sticking the video in my post

Alan.

Wow wow wow!
I wonder if I have that on the 550D?

Sorry Little Me, there is a typo in the title, it should say EOS 550D not 50D.

So yes, you do have it

Alan.

Ooooh! how exciting! I'll shall go and explore later!
How did you focus? Manually?

I tried both manual and autofocus. Manual is okay if you can see the LCD clearly (which in the sun can be hard)

Alan.

I'm really struggling to focus in video mode - especially with things that move!
As soon as anyone moves they drop out of focus.

I know what you mean, for anyone that has not used a Canon with video, it is nothing like using a home camcorder, everything is manual (except exposure, which you can switch between auto and manual)

You can use the zoom in the normal video modes (* button) to zoom in and set focus, but once recording you have to rely on that little LCD screen, or use the HDMI output to a larger screen (not practical when down the local park lol)

Alan.