It's a great time to be shopping for cameras. With so many wonderful large-sensor cameras on the market in the past year, the number of excellent choices for the developing camera enthusiast has never been higher. Canon's EOS 6D is the latest entry in a distinguished line, and it's appropriate that, numerically, it nests between the game-changing EOS 5D and EOS 7D cameras. The '6D holds on to many of the attractive professional features of its predecessors, while adding a few that give it more of a tilt toward the upgrading hobbyist.

Connect with your camera

We'll start with one that's sure to be a hit. The '6D features built-in Wi-Fi® connectivity. That opens a door to some attractive extra features, available with the free Canon EOS Remote app that's coming soon for Android™ and Apple® smartphones and tablets. Things like fast uploading to social networking sites; remote control of aperture, shutter speed, ISO, focus, and shutter release; remote review/live view of images on your smartphone or tablet. And full DLNA compatibility means easy sharing of images with compatible products, like many of today's HDTVs. Easy remote options mean it's never been easier to put yourself in the picture.

The Canon EOS 6D features an elegant ergonomic design that's similar to its predecessors and cousins

Geography whiz

The '6D also features on-board GPS functionality, so that your images can be tagged with detailed location and UTC time stamps. Not only will you know where and when every image was gathered, but you'll have the ability to search and organize your photo library with the aid of this information. It's a huge time-saver when it comes to finding that elusive picture you know you snagged on your day trip to the Irish coast.

Utility player

This kit version of the Canon EOS 6D includes the well-regarded Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM lens. You'll be set to react to almost any photographic opportunity that comes your way, as this lens zooms from wide-angle architectural cityscapes to intimate candids of awestruck cityscape admirers. Though there are many fine lenses available for the '6D, we're willing to bet this one will become one of your go-to favorites.

Film school companion

The EOS 6D has the performance you'd expect from a fine full-frame camera as well. Video shooting will be a joy, with features digital filmmakers demand. Captured video is stored as low-compression h.264 MOV files. There's an external stereo microphone input, with adjustable input levels. And your footage and pictures will be stored on convenient and readily available SD/SDHC/SDXC cards. Plus, your video will feature the unique, lush look that you can only get from a full-frame sensor.