The Canon EOS M50 boasts an impressive rated lifespan of 100,000 actuations, which equates to a substantial number of shutter clicks.
This comes as no surprise, considering its status as a modern mirrorless camera.
Even if you utilize your camera on a daily basis, it would typically take a handful of years to reach the 100k actuation milestone.
However, event photographers may reach this shutter count sooner compared to those who use their cameras more sparingly.
How to Check the Shutter Count on Canon EOS M50
Checking the shutter count is relatively easy and you don’t need to be a tech-savvy person to do it. All you need is your camera, a computer, an internet connection, and (some money to pay for the app).
You have several options available to check the shutter actuation:
Paid:
- Shuttercheck – $10. Works with all Canon Cameras. OS: macOS
- EOSSMG – $5. Works with all Canon Cameras. OS: Windows
- ShutterCount Mobile – €8.99 / $7.99. Works with all Canon Cameras. OS: macOS & iOS
- Free shutter count – free up to 1000 actuations OS: Windows & macOS. Newer mirrorless cameras are not supported but it worked with my Canon EOS RP. Worth a try if you have less than 1000 shutter clicks.
Free:
Try them at your own risk. Unfortunately, most of these apps only support previous versions and fewer Canon models.
- Camera shutter count – web app
- Canon EOS Digital Info – Windows
- Exiftool – Windows
- Opanda – Windows
These are the best ways to check your camera’s shutter count.
If you happen to own a modern mirrorless camera, I highly recommend considering the option of investing in a paid app. These apps, available for a one-time fee, offer a range of valuable features and functionalities tailored to read your camera’s shutter count accurately.
And to make your money’s worth, some of these apps support older and newer generation mirrorless and DSLR cameras from different brands.
What is the real shutter count?
The official shutter count of the publisher is the one thing but how long does the shutter live in the real world. Our team from EmmaLucyPhotography.com tested 100 models of this camera and here are our results.
Up to how many releases until failure (in steps of tens of thousands):
So this graphic shows that the information from the manufacturer is basically accurate, but you have to calculate with fluctuation. If you are really unlucky, your Canon EOS M50 Shutter Count only lives to 45.327 actuation (that was the earliest failure of any camera model). But on the other hand, our longest-lasting camera endured 148.091 triggers.
Why shutter cycles matter
Shutters in cameras are crucial for their functionality, especially in DSLRs. Unlike mirrorless cameras, DSLRs also have a reflex mirror that engages when the shutter is triggered.
The shutter mechanism itself is a complex device that operates under demanding conditions, requiring precise movement and rapid action.
Focal plane shutters, commonly found in DSLRs and mirrorless cameras, have curtains that move with remarkable precision, covering distances of up to 24 mm in less than three milliseconds.
They need to open and close rapidly, even as fast as 1/8000 second in high-end cameras, ensuring reliable performance during continuous shooting.
Over time, camera shutters can wear out, leading to unreliable operation and eventual failure. This can pose significant challenges for photographers, especially professionals who capture thousands of images each week.
With shutter actuation data, photographers can anticipate potential issues and make informed decisions about maintenance or purchasing a new camera.
While the shutter count serves as a useful guideline for most users, it’s important to note that shutters often outlast their official ratings. The longevity of a shutter depends on factors such as usage frequency and operating conditions.
Proper care and maintenance can enhance shutter performance and extend its lifespan.
Manufacturers don’t specify a fixed limit for a shutter’s lifespan, and failures can occur even in relatively new shutters due to manufacturing defects, which should be covered under warranty.
Whether you’re buying or selling a camera, it’s important to consider a few key factors.
For buyers, one important aspect is to check the camera’s shutter count to assess its condition. A lower shutter count generally indicates better care and maintenance. However, it’s also essential to take into account how the camera was handled and stored, as these factors can impact its overall condition.
If you’re selling a camera, be aware that potential buyers often use the shutter count as a measure of value and condition. Canon cameras with lower shutter counts (under 50k) typically have slightly higher prices compared to those with higher counts (over 50k).
What will happen when you reach your Canon M50 camera’s shutter count lifespan?
The majority of cameras come with a specified shutter lifespan, and the Canon M50 is no exception, with a shutter life expectancy of 100,000 actuations. However, reaching this point should not cause undue concern.
Rest assured, your camera will continue to function normally. Personally, my team has multiple cameras with over 100k actuations, and they still perform flawlessly.
Simply keep capturing those moments and, most importantly, enjoy using your camera!
Now, if you’re a professional photographer like myself, and you rely on photography for income, it is advisable to have a backup camera body on hand in case the shutter fails during crucial shoots.
As a professional photographer, this situation is undoubtedly one of my worst nightmares.
FAQs
Should I worry about a high shutter count?
If you shoot a lot, especially at events, your camera’s shutter count will rise quickly. But don’t worry! Most cameras can exceed their limits and function without issues.
When buying a used camera, avoid high shutter counts (around 100,000+).
While it doesn’t mean instant failure, it increases the chance of future shutter problems. Cameras often outlast their expected lifespan
Is it possible to reset the shutter count?
Most cameras have built-in software that makes it extremely difficult to access and modify their settings. Resetting the shutter count intentionally is not possible.
To reset the shutter count, you would need to replace the actual shutter mechanism. Generally, the counter restarts only when a new shutter is installed following a failure of the previous one.
How do I know if my shutter is failing?
If you find that your images are consistently overexposed or underexposed, regardless of the settings you use, it could be a sign of shutter failure.
Additionally, if you observe strong light streaks across your photos or notice issues with the shutter not opening or closing correctly, it’s advisable to take your camera to a service center for inspection and repairs.
Can I replace the shutter?
Yes, you can have the shutter replaced at a service center. The cost typically ranges from $300 to $500, depending on the camera model.
If you’re looking for a more affordable option, you might consider replacing the shutter yourself. However, this can be challenging without the right tools and experience, and you may end up causing further damage.
While there are online guides available for self-replacement, it’s best to seek professional repair for your camera. If you have a high shutter count, save up for repair or consider upgrading to a new camera.
Emma Lucy is the Founder & CEO of Emma Lucy Photography. She has over a decade of experience shooting weddings and other intimate events. She also tests the latest digital camera bodies, lenses, analog cameras, and other gear from Canon, Nikon, Sony, and other camera brands. She is From London and currently lives in the United States of America, where she spends most of her time as a self-employed professional photographer and writer.
Canon EOS M50 Mirrorless Camera Kit w/EF-M15-45mm and 4K Video (Black) (Renewed)
11 used from $559.00
Features
- Improved Dual Pixel CMOS AF and Eye Detection AF
- 24.1 Megapixel (APS-C) CMOS Sensor with ISO 100-25600 (H: 51200)
- 4K UHD 24p and HD 120p for Slow Motion
- Built-in OLED EVF with Touch and Drag AF
Canon EOS M50 Mark II Body Black (Renewed)
Features
- 24.1 megapixel (aps-c) cmos sensor with iso 100-25600 (h: 51200).
- digic 8 image processor with auto lighting optimizer.
- improved dual pixel cmos af and eye detection af (still/movie servo af support).
- 4k uhd 24p and hd 120p for slow motion.
- vari-angle touchscreen lcd convenient for vlogging and various composition.
Canon EOS R50 Mirrorless Vlogging Camera (Black) w/RF-S18-45mm F4.5-6.3 is STM Lens, 24.2 MP, 4K Video, Subject Detection & Tracking, Compact, Smartphone Connection, Content Creator
$749.00 in stock
Features
- Compact, lightweight RF mount camera with a 24.2 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor and DIGIC X processor.
- 4K uncropped movie with Dual Pixel CMOS AF II at up to 30 fps oversampled from 6K and Full HD High-frame rate movie at up to 120 fps. Movie for Close-up Demo Mode quickly switches focus when a product is brought close to the camera.
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF II covering up to 100% x 100% area with 651 AF zones with auto subject detection and tracking of people, animals, and vehicles using deep learning technology
- Continuous shooting with 12 fps with Electronic First Curtain and 15 fps with Electronic Shutter.
- Take great shots even in difficult settings with Advanced A+ Assist which offers an expanded array of auto-compatible scenes enabling greater expressive capability in auto mode, and built-in flash for shooting in dark environments or with backlit scenes.
Canon EOS M50 Mark II + EF-M 15-45mm is STM Kit Black (Renewed)
Features
- 24.1 megapixel (aps-c) cmos sensor with iso 100-25600 (h: 51200).
- digic 8 image processor with auto lighting optimizer.
- improved dual pixel cmos af and eye detection af (still/movie servo af support).
- 4k uhd 24p and hd 120p for slow motion.
- vari-angle touchscreen lcd convenient for vlogging and various composition.
Canon EOS M50 Mark II Mirrorless Camera with 15-45mm and 55-200mm Lenses (Black) (4728C014) + 2 x 64GB Memory Card + Color Filter Kit + Filter Kit + Charger + 2 x LPE12 Battery + More (Renewed)
Features
- Included Items: 1 x Canon EOS M50 Mark II Mirrorless Camera with 15-45mm and 55-200mm Lenses (Black), 2 x SanDisk SecureDigital 64GB Extreme PRO Memory Card, 1 x 52mm Graduated Color Filter Kit, 1 x 3 Piece Filter Kit, 1 x 52mm 3 Piece Filter Kit, 1 x External Battery Charger, 2 x LPE12 Battery, 1 x 52mm Wide Angle Lens, 1 x 52mm Telephoto Lens, 1 x 52mm Tulip Lens Hood, 1 x Memory Card Reader, 1 x Led Light, 1 x Corel Photo Software and more...
- A comprehensive kit for content creators, the black Canon EOS M50 Mark II Mirrorless Camera with 15-45mm and 55-200mm Lenses bundles the sleek mirrorless body with the EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM standard zoom lens and the EF-M 55-200mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM telephoto zoom lens.Canon EOS M50 Mark II Mirrorless Camera with 15-45mm Lens (Black) Catering to vloggers and content creators, the black Canon EOS M50 Mark II is a versatile multimedia camera with a well-rounded photo and video feature-set.
- Sporting improved focusing, recording, and sharing capabilities, the M50 Mark II still revolves around the proven 24.1MP APS-C CMOS sensor and DIGIC 8 image processor, which enable a quick 10 fps shooting rate, a native sensitivity range of ISO 100-25600, and UHD 4K video recording at 23.98 fps, along with Full HD 1080p60 and HD 720p120 for slow motion capture.
- Sensor-based Dual Pixel CMOS AF has been improved with faster speeds and refined Eye Detection AF performance, and supports both Eye Detection and Face Detection focusing modes when working with Movie Servo AF to help keep sharp focus on the subject matter. Additionally, Combination IS 5-axis image stabilization also helps to realize steady, shake-free recording by minimizing the appearance of camera shake.
- Top Features: 24.1MP APS-C CMOS Sensor - DIGIC 8 Image Processor - UHD 4K and HD 720p120 Video Recording - Dual Pixel CMOS AF with Eye Detect AF - 2.36m-Dot OLED Electronic Viewfinder - 3.0" 1.04m-Dot Vari-Angle Touchscreen - Wi-Fi and Bluetooth; Webcam Capability - Extended ISO 51200, 10 fps Shooting - EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM Lens
Canon EOS M50 Mark II Mirrorless Digital SLR with 15-45mm Lens (Black) + 420-800mm Super Zoom Lens, Wide Angle Lens, Telephoto Lens, 64GB Memory Card, 3pc Filter Kit, Tripod, Card Reader + Pro Bundle
Features
- This Camera Bundle Kit comes complete with all manufacturer supplied accessories and includes: 420-800mm Super Zoom HD Lens, 0.43x Wide Angle Lens, 2.2x Telephoto Lens, SanDisk 64GB Ultra Class 10 SDHC UHS-I Memory Card , 3pc Filter Kit, Flash, Tripod, Deluxe Camera Gadget Backpack , Canon Battery and Charger , High Speed Memory Card Reader , Lens Caps and Body Cap , Table Top Flexible tripod , Camera and Lens Maintenence Kit , Memory Card Wallet , Lens Cap Keeper
- The Canon M50 Mark II still revolves around the proven 24.1MP APS-C CMOS sensor and DIGIC 8 image processor, which enable a quick 10 fps shooting rate, a native sensitivity range of ISO 100-25600, and UHD 4K video recording at 23.98 fps, along with Full HD 1080p60 and HD 720p120 for slow motion capture.
- Canon EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM Lens - A standard zoom covering wide-angle to short telephoto perspectives, the Lens offers a 24-72mm equivalent focal length range when used with APS-C-format EOS M-series mirrorless cameras. The lens placement has also been optimized, and coatings have been applied, to reduce flare and ghosting
- 24.1MP APS-C CMOS Sensor | DIGIC 8 Image Processor | UHD 4K and HD | 720p120 Video Recording | Dual Pixel CMOS AF with Eye Detect AF | 2.36m-Dot OLED Electronic Viewfinder
- 3.0" 1.04m-Dot Vari-Angle Touchscreen | Wi-Fi and Bluetooth; Webcam Capability | Extended ISO 51200, 10 fps Shooting | Combination 5-Axis Image Stabilization
Canon EOS M50 Mirrorless Camera Kit w/EF-M15-45mm Lens and 4K Video (White) (Renewed)
Features
- Improved Dual Pixel CMOS AF and Eye Detection AF
- 24.1 Megapixel (APS-C) CMOS Sensor with ISO 100-25600 (H: 51200)
- 4K UHD 24p and HD 120p for Slow Motion
- Built-in OLED EVF with Touch and Drag AF
Canon EOS M50 Mark II Mirrorless Digital Camera with 15-45mm Lens (Black) (4728C006), 64GB Extreme Pro Card, Extra Battery, Case, Card Reader, Cleaning Set, More (International Model) (Renewed)
Features
- Bundle Items Include: 1 x Canon EOS M50 Mark II Mirrorless Digital Camera with 15-45mm Lens (Black), 1 x SanDisk 64GB Extreme PRO UHS-I SDXC Memory Card, 1 x LPE12 Replacement Battery, 1 x Soft Padded Case, 1 x Memory Card Reader, 1 x Deluxe Cleaning Set, 1 x Memory Card Wallet
- PERFORMER: The EOS M50 Mark II carries and builds on the strong performance of the popular EOS M50 with improvements that will be especially notable for content creators like vloggers and more. You still get the impressive image quality of the 24.1 Megapixel CMOS sensor, power of the DIGIC 8 image processor, 4K UHD 24p and HD 120p for slow motion video and more, along with some additional boosts.
- FAST: The autofocus locks onto the subject faster, and Eye Detection is improved so it recognizes the eyes and face further away. Eye Detection can now even be used during video with Movie Servo AF, and you can use both Eye and Face Detection during Servo AF. What you get is added versatility and stability to keep the subject(s) in focus and as the center of attention.
- VERSATILE: For content creators, you can use the EOS M50 Mark II to livestream your content with built-in Wi-Fi, and use with EOS Webcam Utility software for an easy webcam alternative. When a different angle is needed, you can shoot vertically in addition to horizontally, and the camera even offers clean HDMI output for high-resolution, high frame-rate streaming. When it comes to content, the EOS M50 Mark II goes far beyond letting you just scratch the surface of your vision.
- KEY FEATURES: 24.1MP APS-C CMOS Sensor - DIGIC 8 Image Processor - UHD 4K and HD 720p120 Video Recording - Dual Pixel CMOS AF with Eye Detect AF - 2.36m-Dot OLED Electronic Viewfinder - 3.0 Inch 1.04m-Dot Vari-Angle Touchscreen - Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, Webcam Capability - Extended ISO 51200, 10 fps Shooting - Combination 5-Axis Image Stabilization - EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM Lens
Canon EOS M50 Mark II Mirrorless Digital Camera with 15-45mm Lens (4728C006) + 64GB Extreme Pro Card + Extra LPE12 Battery + Case + UV Filter + Card Reader + Filter Kit + HDMI Cable + More (Renewed)
Features
- Bundle Includes: 1 x Canon EOS M50 Mark II Mirrorless Digital Camera with 15-45mm Lens (Black), 1 x SanDisk 64GB Extreme PRO UHS-I SDXC Memory Card, 1 x LPE12 Replacement Battery, 1 x Soft Padded Case, 1 x 49mm UV Filter, 1 x Memory Card Reader, 1 x 49mm 3 Piece Filter Kit UV/CPL/F, 1 x Micro to HDMI Cable, 1 x Deluxe Cleaning Set, 1 x Memory Card Wallet
- PERFORMER: The EOS M50 Mark II carries and builds on the strong performance of the popular EOS M50 with improvements that will be especially notable for content creators like vloggers and more. You still get the impressive image quality of the 24.1 Megapixel CMOS sensor, power of the DIGIC 8 image processor, 4K UHD 24p and HD 120p for slow motion video and more, along with some additional boosts.
- FAST: The autofocus locks onto the subject faster, and Eye Detection is improved so it recognizes the eyes and face further away. Eye Detection can now even be used during video with Movie Servo AF, and you can use both Eye and Face Detection during Servo AF. What you get is added versatility and stability to keep the subject(s) in focus and as the center of attention.
- VERSATILE: For content creators, you can use the EOS M50 Mark II to livestream your content with built-in Wi-Fi, and use with EOS Webcam Utility software for an easy webcam alternative. When a different angle is needed, you can shoot vertically in addition to horizontally, and the camera even offers clean HDMI output for high-resolution, high frame-rate streaming. When it comes to content, the EOS M50 Mark II goes far beyond letting you just scratch the surface of your vision.
- KEY FEATURES: 24.1MP APS-C CMOS Sensor - DIGIC 8 Image Processor - UHD 4K and HD 720p120 Video Recording - Dual Pixel CMOS AF with Eye Detect AF - 2.36m-Dot OLED Electronic Viewfinder - 3.0 Inch 1.04m-Dot Vari-Angle Touchscreen - Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, Webcam Capability - Extended ISO 51200, 10 fps Shooting - Combination 5-Axis Image Stabilization - EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM Lens
Canon EOS M50 Mark II Mirrorless Digital Camera with 15-45mm Lens (Black) (4728C006) + 64GB Extreme Pro Card + Extra LPE12 Battery + Case + Card Reader + Cleaning Set + Memory Wallet + More (Renewed)
Features
- Bundle Includes: 1 x Canon EOS M50 Mark II Mirrorless Digital Camera with 15-45mm Lens (Black), 1 x SanDisk 64GB Extreme PRO UHS-I SDXC Memory Card, 1 x LPE12 Replacement Battery, 1 x Soft Padded Case, 1 x Memory Card Reader, 1 x Deluxe Cleaning Set, 1 x Memory Card Wallet
- PERFORMER: The EOS M50 Mark II carries and builds on the strong performance of the popular EOS M50 with improvements that will be especially notable for content creators like vloggers and more. You still get the impressive image quality of the 24.1 Megapixel CMOS sensor, power of the DIGIC 8 image processor, 4K UHD 24p and HD 120p for slow motion video and more, along with some additional boosts.
- FAST: The autofocus locks onto the subject faster, and Eye Detection is improved so it recognizes the eyes and face further away. Eye Detection can now even be used during video with Movie Servo AF, and you can use both Eye and Face Detection during Servo AF. What you get is added versatility and stability to keep the subject(s) in focus and as the center of attention.
- VERSATILE: For content creators, you can use the EOS M50 Mark II to livestream your content with built-in Wi-Fi, and use with EOS Webcam Utility software for an easy webcam alternative. When a different angle is needed, you can shoot vertically in addition to horizontally, and the camera even offers clean HDMI output for high-resolution, high frame-rate streaming. When it comes to content, the EOS M50 Mark II goes far beyond letting you just scratch the surface of your vision.
- KEY FEATURES: 24.1MP APS-C CMOS Sensor - DIGIC 8 Image Processor - UHD 4K and HD 720p120 Video Recording - Dual Pixel CMOS AF with Eye Detect AF - 2.36m-Dot OLED Electronic Viewfinder - 3.0 Inch 1.04m-Dot Vari-Angle Touchscreen - Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, Webcam Capability - Extended ISO 51200, 10 fps Shooting - Combination 5-Axis Image Stabilization - EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM Lens