Covering tens of thousands of square yards and meters, the Koelnmesse in Cologne is a gold mine of photography products. While new products are obviously put in the spotlight, manufacturers don't forget their older products amid the myriad demonstrations and events. In this image jungle, where digital now occupies the most space, certain cameras create a sensation for a variety of reasons: professional reflexes built to exacting specifications, feats of design, audacious concepts, or jewels of intelligence in a particular sector, the cameras listed here all have advantages that are specific to them. Photographers will have to decide which ones suit them best, after having carefully drawn up their "specifications."

Canon EOS 1DS Mark II

The real "monster" of Photokina 2004 needs no introduction. The Canon EOS 1DS Mark II is the flagship of the entire current "fleet" of digital cameras. This ultra-complete professional reflex, based on the EOS 1 film camera, is the natural choice for Canon believers, but can interest studio photographers as well. With its 24x36 mm CMOS sensor with 16.7 million photosites, it delivers images that can reach 50 MB (converted to TIFF format) via a resolution that rivals that of the digital backs usually used in medium format. Yet, though its target is openly studio professionals, the EOS 1DS Mark II offers a burst rate of 4 images per second (for 32 shots in JPEG and 11 in RAW) - a very creditable speed that will attract even photojournalists. Its nominal sensitivity of ISO 100 to 1600 can extend to 50 to 3200, covering almost the entire spectrum of traditional film, which increases its multidisciplinarity and effectiveness. A real thoroughbred, the Canon EOS 1DS Mark II will be available shortly at a price of more than $9,000 - out of the range of amateurs, but very attractive for professionals.