The ability to shoot while viewing the LCD monitor is an advantage offered only by digital cameras. With a viewing angle that approaches 100%, the LCD monitor makes it easy to frame shots and gives you a wealth of information at a glance. This enables a number of conveniences, such as letting you check the colors after adjusting the white balance or view the changes from exposure compensation before you shoot. You can also compose your shots without having to look in the viewfinder when using a tripod. However, conventional digital SLR cameras have not taken full advantage of this ability.

By combining the Live MOS sensor's full-time image output with a mirror-raising mechanism, the L1 provides a preview function that displays the exact same image signal on the LCD monitor that the sensor receives through the lens.

You can also display a preview of the image using the aperture preview button, to check the depth of field before you shoot. You see a clear image on the large LCD.

Accurate phase difference detection system allows auto focusing, even in Live View

Auto focusing activates when the shutter button is pressed halfway. A mirror in the up position flips down and up again to achieve sharp, precise focusing.*
In manual focus mode, the L1 provides an MF Assist function that enlarges the screen image to 4x or 10x. This makes it easier for you to get a sharp, precise focus.

*Continuous AF function is not available when using Live View.