If looks are any indication of success, then the Canon EOS 50D digital SLR camera should be a world-beater.

It looks almost identical to the Canon EOS 40D, which proved to be immensely popular when it hit the market late in 2007.

The 50D is not intended to be a replacement model for the 40D. Instead it builds on the features and functions of the earlier model to present a package is slightly superior, but also slightly more expensive.

One of the most noticeable differences between the two models is the improvement to the LCD screen on the 50D. It presents images that are far more lifelike and detailed than before, and also comes with an anti-reflection coating so viewing in bright light isn’t a problem.

Another new inclusion is Creative Auto mode, which is an advanced automatic mode. Canon has also made improvements to auto focus and face detection functions. Unfortunately, one noticeable exclusion is video recording.

Given its exceptional predecessor, most aspects of the EOS 50D’s performance are excellent. Most noticeably, the upgrade to a Digic 4 processor gives improved image quality, as does the 15.1-megapixel sensor (up from 10.1 in the 40D).

Click here to find offers on Canon EOS digital SLR cameras from retailers near you.

By Caroline Warnes