Over the last several months, we have seen a number of DSLR cameras surface. What we have not seen is any movement on the prosumer/pro models of APS-C & Full frame cameras in recent years and as a result, there are quite a few rumors cerculating around on what to expect. Here are some basics of what to expect.

Over the last several months, we have seen a number of DSLR cameras surface. Nikon’s D5100, D3100, and D7000 have all made headlines and found excellent reviews. Canon has also released a T3, T3i and 60D to counter Nikon with similar results. What we have not seen is any movement on the prosumer/pro models of APS-C & Full frame cameras in recent years and as a result, there are quite a few rumors cerculating around on what to expect. Almost every full frame camera has neared or exceeded typical life expectancy though it is unlikely they will all be replaced soon. Here are some basics of what to expect.

Sony A77
This should be one of the first new cameras we see come to market. Sony has been steadily releasing more information on this camera in order to stir the market and gather attention. It has succeeded. Sony will show off some new technology and likely boost its image in the professional DSLR market. This camera should boast a 24mp sensor, translucent mirror, with great video and liveview autofocus. Expect an announcement in July or August in the $1000 range.

Nikon D800
I am really looking forward to see what Nikon is able to accomplish with the D800. The D700 is a great full frame camera and is a very capable full frame camera. I expect Nikon to boost resolution between 16MP-24MP while keeping a strong focus on high ISO performance. Due to the success of the D7000, there are strong expectations for this model. I expect to see a D800 between August and October this year.

Nikon D4s
A replacement for the D3s is likely though not definite for this year. The D3s has been an unbelievable performer in low light abilities and shows almost no noise or grain even at ISO 6400+.  I don’t believe Nikon will push megapixels too much with this model, likely sticking to around 16MP, but I do expect stunning ISO performance with 10+fps shooting and great autofocus. The D3s is not yet 2 years old and thus I don’t expect a new release until Spring-Summer 2012.

Nikon D4X
Nikons 24MP D3X is also nearing end of life. The model released in 2008 has provided stunning results at higher resolutions. Unfortunately it is a bit slower than other models and has a limited ISO sensitivity range. I expect a release towards the end of this year before the D4s model. Nikon will likely keep pixel pushing up into the 32MP range for this great studio camera.

Canon 8D
The Canon 7D, while a great camera, is beginning to look dated when compared to Nikon’s newest D7000. With a new Nikon D700 release in a few months, the Canon 7D will be a tough sell going forward. I expect a new release from Canon in fall of 2011 boosting resolution around 22-26MP while offering better movie mode selection (possibly 1080p @ 60fps and 720p at 120fps), a new Digic 5 sensor, and dual SD card slots.

Canon 5D mark III
This will be one of Canon’s most anticipated releases. The Canon 5D mark II was the gift that keeps on giving. Long after its release, the cameras video potential is still being pushed to new limits being featured in TV and full feature films. As a result, Canon has a great amount of pressure from the film market for a 5D mark III. Expect a higher resolution sensor, anywhere from 32-40MP from what I’ve been hearing, a new autofocus system as this was a weakness of the current 5D, better video modes (possibly 1080p @ 60fps and 720p at 120fps), a new Digic 5 sensor, and dual CF card slots. I originally had hopes of seeing this product fall of 2011, however, it is currently looking more like a spring 2012 release.

Canon 1D Mark V
Canon’s 1D lineup is a little more confusing. There really is a lack of clear direction for canon’s professional lineup. Canon may continue with 2 1D bodies, one pushing MP for studio work, and one pushing speed and high ISO performance, or it may combine the 2 in  a future release camera. There are also some discrepancies on if they will keep the current smaller sensor in the 1D mark IV yielding a 1.3x crop factor. We could expect one 1D camera to be released fall of this year, however I still have reservations about this lineup. Expect to see at least 1 camera with a 30+MP sensor and 9fps minimum shooting with great high ISO performance. Whether canon can do this in only 1 body remains to be seen. My gut is that Canon will need to keep a 2 camera lineup to compete with Nikon’s 3Ds and 3Dx, both of which have independent strengths and weaknesses.

What are your thoughts? Sound off below.