Canon obviously listened to its customers and researched the market thoroughly when designing its latest DSLR camera, the EOS 400D. While this model will replace the successful EOS 350D, it’s quite a different beast and offers significant improvements on its predecessor. Gone is the 350D’s small grip that caused photographers with large hands so much grief; it’s replaced by a slightly deeper hand-hold that’s much more comfortable.

Available in black or silver, the 400D retains the compact size and light weight of its predecessor, which makes it a great camera for travellers, bushwalkers and anyone who wants to take great pictures but doesn’t want a heavy load. Build quality is generally sound – although the 400D’s plastic body is not in the same class as the metal bodies of the EOS 30D and 5D. An optional portrait battery grip is available for photographers who require a bit more to hold onto.