Canon announces EOS-1D C 4K camera and Cinema EOS C500
posted Thursday, April 12, 2012 at 9:07 AM EDT
Canon USA today made quite a range of announcements revolving around the National Association of Broadcasters tradeshow, which is about to kick off next week in Las Vegas. The list includes a new video-oriented EOS-series professional DSLR and a Cinema EOS-series video camera, both with 4K resolution. There are also four new EF Cinema zoom lenses, a 30-inch 4K industrial display, and new firmware for XF-series camcorders.
First on the list--and likely the most interesting for Imaging Resource readers--is the Canon EOS-1D C, an 18-megapixel digital SLR that shares the same body and most of the same feature set as the EOS-1D X, but with a couple of slight hardware differences visible on the body's exterior. Under the skin, the EOS-1D C is Canon's first SLR to offer both 4K and Full HD video capture. (4K equals 4,096 x 2,160 pixels and Full HD is 1,920 x 1,080.)
So, what's different in terms of hardware? Externally, the most notable difference is a new headphone port for audio monitoring, which replaces the 1D X's flash sync port. (There's hence no sync connector on the 1D C.) On the inside it's not clear if the EOS-1D C uses the exact same sensor as in the 1D X, or has any tweaks in this area to achieve greater video bandwidth, but Canon tells our friends over at DPReview that it has reworked the camera's internals to avoid overheating.
Pricing for the Canon EOS-1D C is set at around US$15,000, with availability at some point during 2012. Product specs follow below, as well as info on Canon's other NAB announcements:
(158 x 164 x 83 mm)
35mm (approx. 1.70 in. diagonal)
19.30 megapixels (total)
18.10 megapixels (effective)
4608 x 3072 (14.2 megapixels)
3456 x 2304 (8.0 megapixels)
2592 x 1728 (4.5 megapixels)
Does not have AF assist lamp
Manual focus possible
Alongside the eyecatching 1D C, Canon has also announced its intention to produce a follow-on to the last year's EOS Cinema C300 video camera. Just like the EOS-1D C, the new Cinema EOS C500 camera is capable of 4K capture. Two variants will be offered, and just like those for the C300 will differ only in their choice of lens mount. The standard Cinema EOS C500 will have a Canon EF lens mount, while the Cinema EOS C500 PL will accept PL-mount lenses. Detailed specifications for this model aren't yet available. A prototype will be shown at NAB, and the final versions should ship later this year.
Alongside both cameras, Canon has announced four new EOS Cinema-series lenses. Two are wide-angle zooms: the CN-E15.5-47mm T2.8 L S* (for EF mounts) and the CN-E15.5-47mm T2.8 L SP* (for PL mounts); and two are telephoto zooms: the CN-E30-105mm T2.8 L S* (for EF mounts) and CN-E30-105mm T2.8 L SP* (for PL mounts).
Also of interest given the 4K video capabilities of the EOS-1D C and Cinema EOS C500 models is a mighty 30-inch, 4K resolution video display said to be under development at Canon. A prototype will be shown at NAB, and the display should reach the market this year, although no guidance on pricing and availability was offered.
Finally, Canon has launched updated firmware for all four camcorder models in its XF-series, the Canon XF305, XF300, XF105, and XF100. The new firmware enables 1,440 x 1,080 pixel, 35Mbps recording. The frame rate depends on the camcorder's video-mode setting; either 60 interlaced fields per second for NTSC video, or 50 fields per second for PAL.
Press Release
Canon U.S.A. Introduces EOS-1D C Digital SLR Camera Featuring 4k High-Resolution Video Capture
Newest Addition to the Canon Cinema EOS Product Line Combines the Convenient Form Factor of a Digital SLR Camera with Full HD and 4K Video Recording up to 4096 x 2160-Pixel Resolution
LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., April 12, 2012 – Continually advancing the frontiers of digital high-resolution motion-image capture for film, television, and other industries, Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today announced the EOS-1D C digital single-lens reflex (SLR) camera.* Delivering outstanding video performance, the compact, lightweight EOS-1D C provides video recording at 4K (4096 x 2160-pixel) or Full HD (1920 x 1080-pixel) resolution to support high-end motion picture, television production and other advanced imaging applications.
Equipped with an 18.1-megapixel full-frame 24mm x 36mm Canon CMOS sensor, the camera records 8-bit 4:2:2 Motion JPEG 4K video to the camera’s CF memory card at 24 frames-per-second (fps) or Full HD 1920 x 1080 video at selectable frame rates from 24p to 60p, making it possible for next-generation visual expression with even higher image-quality and resolution performance.
“The Canon EOS-1D C digital SLR camera was designed in response to the needs of filmmakers, television producers, and other high-level motion-imaging professionals,” stated Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Imaging Technologies & Communications Group, Canon U.S.A. “Not only does it combine 4K and Full HD video capture with a convenient design, its use of dual CF cards also offers an efficient workflow compatible with today’s post-production requirements.”
Creative Control
The Canon EOS-1D C digital SLR camera incorporates Canon Log Gamma to enable the recording of high-quality video with rich gradation expression, making possible the type of impressive image quality required in motion pictures by maximizing both highlight and shadow detail retention while also providing a high level of color-grading freedom. The EOS-1D C’s full-frame 24 x 36mm 18.1-megapixel Canon CMOS sensor makes possible a wide range of creative imaging expression, such as image-blur effects. Additional features include an expanded sensitivity range of up to ISO 25600 for exceptional motion-imaging results with reduced noise even in low-light settings. The camera’s ability to record 8-bit 4:2:2 4K and 8-bit 4:2:0 Full HD video to CF cards eliminates the need for an external recorder and enables workflows with increased mobility. If desired, however, captured video (excluding 4K video) can be output from the camera’s HDMI terminal to an external recorder using an uncompressed YCbCr 8-bit 4:2:2 signal.
4K video is captured by an approximately APS-H-sized portion of the full image sensor, while Full HD video can be captured in the user’s choice of two different imaging formats:
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The standard Full HD setting captures the full 36mm width of the CMOS sensor to achieve the largest possible angle of view for any compatible lens.
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An optional Super 35 crop setting enables cinematographers to match the industry-standard imaging format and angle of view achieved by traditional motion picture cameras. This enables video footage from the EOS-1D C camera to more closely match the look of footage from other cameras in multi-camera shooting environments.
Other useful video-related features on the EOS-1D C DSLR include a built-in headphone jack for real-time audio monitoring, and the ability to view the camera’s LCD even when the HDMI port is connected to an external monitor. The EOS-1D C camera uses the same LP-E4N battery pack as the EOS-1D X, and it can also be powered by an optional AC Adapter Kit.
The EOS-1D C camera ships with Canon software applications including EOS Utility, which enables various camera settings to be adjusted from a PC, and Picture Style Editor. These two personal computer applications enable users to view the camera’s live output on an external monitor1 and adjust the image in real-time to maximize shooting and post-production efficiencies. The software also ensures no loss of quality for 4K/Motion JPEG and full HD/60p video displayed on the external monitor, and it enables video shot with Canon Log Gamma to be output on the monitor with video gamma applied.
Versatility and Value
The Canon EOS-1D C camera can be used to capture still images with more than 60 interchangeable Canon EF and EF Cinema Lenses, all of which are designed to deliver exceptional image quality to maximize the potential for creative visual expression. The compact size and lightweight design of the camera make it easy to carry so it is highly mobile for convenient shooting inside automobiles and other confined spaces. Its compact size also enables peripheral equipment such as rails and cranes to be more compact, which can facilitate smoother handling and reduced costs on-set. The camera’s low-light capabilities can also help to minimize lighting costs and increase versatility for lighting. For added usability, record start/stop can be remotely controlled by EOS Utility Software via an optional Canon WFT-E6A Wireless File Transmitter.
Realizing the same exceptional still-image performance as the recently introduced Canon EOS-1D X digital SLR camera, the camera provides a sensitivity range of ISO 100-51200 for outstanding still-image results with reduced noise, even in dimly lit settings. Incorporating high-performance Canon Dual DIGIC 5+ image processors, the EOS-1D C delivers high-precision AF and AE performance while also enabling high-speed continuous shooting of up to approximately 12 fps. In the ultra-fast continuous shooting mode, the EOS-1D C provides a continuous shooting speed of up to approximately 14 fps (mirror remains raised during shooting; JPEG images only).
The Canon EOS-1D C digital SLR camera is scheduled to be available within 2012 at a suggested retail price of $15,000.
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* This device has not been authorized as required by the rules of the Federal Communications Commission. This device is not, and may not be offered for sale or lease, or sold or leased, until authorization is obtained.
† Based on weekly patent counts issued by United States Patent and Trademark Office.
1 Requires the use of a PC equipped with an SDI port.
All referenced product names, and other marks, are trademarks of their respective owners.
Availability, prices, and specifications of all products are subject to change without notice. Actual prices are set by individual dealers and may vary.
Canon Announces Development Of 4k Digital Cinema Cameras
LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., April 12, 2012 – Canon Inc. is developing two digital cinematography cameras as part of its acclaimed new Cinema EOS System of professional cinematography products. Designated as the Cinema EOS C500* for use with EF-mount lenses, and the Cinema EOS C500 PL* for use with PL-mount lenses, the cameras will be capable of originating 4K (4096 x 2160-pixel) resolution digital motion imagery with uncompressed RAW output for external recording, in response to growing expectations for higher levels of imaging performance in premium Hollywood films and other production markets requiring the utmost in picture quality.
“With the unveiling of our Cinema EOS System last November to great acclaim, Canon marked our full-fledged entry into the motion-picture production market,” stated Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Imaging Technologies & Communications Group, Canon U.S.A. “To further serve the needs of Hollywood’s premier filmmakers, Canon is developing the Cinema EOS C500 and Cinema EOS C500 PL digital cinematography cameras, which deliver the added benefit of full 4K motion-image capture to the Cinema EOS System.”
The 4K imaging format is emerging as the new standard for advanced effects and post-production in Hollywood, and it is particularly important for big-budget motion pictures that include scenes compositing live-action cinematography with high-resolution computer-generated imagery. The Cinema EOS C500/C500 PL digital cinematography cameras will not only support 4K-resolution video but also outputs this as a 10-bit uncompressed RAW data stream with no de-Bayering. The cameras offer the additional versatility of being able to output quad full-HD (3840 x 2160), 2K (2048 x 1080), full HD (1920 x 1080), and other imaging options. All of these digital image source formats fully conform to established SMPTE production standards. All 4K formats can be selected to operate from one to 60 frames per second. The cameras employ a 12-bit RGB 4:4:4 signal format during 2K output, which can be selected to operate from one to 60 frames-per-second (fps) as well. If switched to a 10-bit YCrCb 4:2:2 mode, the camera can operate up to 120 fps.
The Cinema EOS C500 simultaneously records in-camera a 50 Mbps HD proxy video to a CF card that is immediately available to support offline editing. Equipped with a newly developed Super 35mm-equivalent approximately 8.85-megapixel CMOS sensor, the cameras will be compatible with Canon’s wide range of interchangeable EF Cinema and PL-mount lenses and EF lenses for Canon SLR cameras. Highly mobile and compact for filmmaking versatility, the Cinema EOS C500/C500 PL digital cinematography cameras – like Canon’s Cinema EOS C300/C300 PL cinematography cameras – provide all of the same ergonomic features, except for the rotating hand grip.
Further details regarding the Cinema EOS C500/C500 PL digital cinematography cameras – including specifications and pricing – have yet to be decided. Plans call for these new products to be launched later this year. In addition to targeting a swift launch of these cameras, Canon will continue to enhance other components of its Cinema EOS System product lineup, which is designed to contribute to the continued advancement of tools for visual expression and the development of cinematic culture.
Canon will display a prototype of the Cinema EOS C500/C500 PL digital cinematography camera at the 2012 NAB Show in booth C4325 at the Las Vegas Convention Center from April 16 to 19.
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* This device has not been authorized as required by the rules of the Federal Communications Commission. This device is not, and may not be offered for sale or lease, or sold or leased, until authorization is obtained.
† Based on weekly patent counts issued by United States Patent and Trademark Office.
All referenced product names, and other marks, are trademarks of their respective owners.
Availability, prices, and specifications of all products are subject to change without notice. Actual prices are set by individual dealers and may vary.
Canon U.S.A. Announces Development Of Four EF Cinema Zoom Lenses
A Wide-Angle Cinema Zoom and a Telephoto Cinema Zoom, Available in EF- and PL-Mount Versions, Will Further Expand Canon’s Cinema EOS System of Professional Digital Cinematography Products
LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., April 12, 2012 – Building upon the historic November 2011 introduction of the Cinema EOS System of professional digital cinematography products, Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leading in digital imaging solutions, today announced the development of four EF Cinema zoom lenses. Designed to deliver exceptional optical performance on 4K resolution Super 35mm-equivalent cameras, each of the four lenses features a compact, lightweight design to facilitate handheld and SteadicamTM shooting while also covering a wide range of focal lengths. Included are two wide-angle cinema zooms – the CN-E15.5-47mm T2.8 L S* (for EF mounts) and the CN-E15.5-47mm T2.8 L SP* (for PL mounts) – and two telephoto cinema zooms – the CN-E30-105mm T2.8 L S* (for EF mounts) and CN-E30-105mm T2.8 L SP* (for PL mounts).
“Canon’s introduction of EF- and PL-mount versions of the EOS C300 digital cinema camera was well received by the film and television production communities,” noted Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Imaging Technologies & Communications Group, Canon U.S.A. “The development of these EF- and PL-mount cinema zooms will help add to the rich diversity of creative imaging choices available to the many film and television professionals who have embraced the new Cinema EOS System.”
A leading maker of precision lenses for professional digital photography, broadcast HDTV sports and news coverage, and many other markets, Canon has leveraged its years of expertise as a world leader in optics and imaging to develop its latest EF Cinema lenses. These wide-angle and telephoto cinema zooms will be compatible with industry-standard Super 35 mm-equivalent cameras and are engineered to deliver exceptional optical performance to support 4K resolution digital filmmaking. The four lenses will perfectly complement the compact body design of Canon EOS digital cinematography cameras with their own compact, lightweight design featuring a form factor well-suited for hand-held use, or for mounting on Steadicam or other lightweight, highly mobile camera-support devices used for cinema verité, “run-and-gun” shooting, or other rapid-action filmmaking.
The developments of these EF Cinema lenses are essential to Canon’s Cinema EOS System of professional digital cinematography products, which include digital cinema cameras, a digital SLR camera, and a wide variety of advanced lenses. Canon will continue to enhance its Cinema EOS System product lineup to support diverse image creation in motion picture, television, and other high-resolution digital production industries. All of these products are designed to contribute to the continued advancement of tools for visual expression and express Canon’s commitment to cinematic culture.
Canon will be displaying prototypes of the cinema zoom lenses at NAB Show 2012, one of the world’s largest events for the video, broadcasting equipment and digital media industries, from April 16 to 19 in Las Vegas.
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* This device has not been authorized as required by the rules of the Federal Communications Commission. This device is not, and may not be offered for sale or lease, or sold or leased, until authorization is obtained.
† Based on weekly patent counts issued by United States Patent and Trademark Office.
All referenced product names, and other marks, are trademarks of their respective owners.
Availability, prices, and specifications of all products are subject to change without notice. Actual prices are set by individual dealers and may vary.
Canon To Exhibit Prototype of 30-Inch 4K Industrial Video Display Currently Under Development at NAB 2012
LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., April 12, 2012 – Canon Inc. today announced that the Company is developing a 30-inch, 4K resolution industrial video display*, a prototype of which will be exhibited from April 16 to 19 at the NAB Show 2012, the world's largest international digital event for audio, video, film, broadcast and communications, held in Las Vegas.
The prototype to be displayed will provide support for cinema and other video editing processes while also responding to film production needs for consistency and reliability through proprietary Canon high image-quality technology. While detailed specifications and pricing have yet to be finalized, Canon aims to commercialize the display before the end of 2012.
About Canon U.S.A., Inc.
Canon U.S.A., Inc., is a leading provider of consumer, business-to-business, and industrial digital imaging solutions. With approximately $45.6 billion in global revenue, its parent company, Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ), ranks third overall in U.S. patents registered in 2011† and is one of Fortune Magazine’s World’s Most Admired Companies in 2012. Canon U.S.A. is committed to the highest levels of customer satisfaction and loyalty, providing 100 percent U.S.-based consumer service and support for all of the products it distributes. Canon U.S.A. is dedicated to its Kyosei philosophy of social and environmental responsibility. To keep apprised of the latest news from Canon U.S.A., sign up for the Company’s RSS news feed by visiting www.usa.canon.com/rss.
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* This device has not been authorized as required by the rules of the Federal Communications Commission. This device is not, and may not be offered for sale or lease, or sold or leased, until authorization is obtained.
† Based on weekly patent counts issued by United States Patent and Trademark Office.
All referenced product names, and other marks, are trademarks of their respective owners.
Availability, prices, and specifications of all products are subject to change without notice. Actual prices are set by individual dealers and may vary.
New Firmware Enhances Canon XF-Series Camcorders, Supporting Popular Broadcast Recording Format
New Firmware Enables 1440 x 1080 35mbps Recording at 60i or 50i for Canon's XF305, XF300, XF105, and XF100 Professional Camcorders
LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., April 12, 2012 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today announced a new firmware update for all four models of the Company's XF-series professional camcorders, enabling a new 35mbps recording mode. The new firmware enables a highly utilized recording mode, popular with many major news broadcast corporations, capturing 1440 x 1080 HD video at 35mbps at 60i or 50i. This format is designed to help the camcorders seamlessly align with standard workflows used by many major news broadcast organizations. Once the firmware is installed, the recording mode will be accessed through the regular mode selection menu on the camcorder and the frame rate will be automatically selected, dependent on the camcorder's PAL or NTSC setting. All previously supported XF-series video resolutions and frame rates will remain available in addition to the newly supported recording format.
"We are happy to continually enhance the capabilities of our products and technologies to meet the needs of professionals in the marketplace. This new firmware will enhance our ability to satisfy the diverse technical needs of broadcast news organizations," stated Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Imaging Technologies & Communications Group, Canon U.S.A.
The firmware is expected to be available for download at the end of May 2012 for all XF-series camcorders and will be available on the individual product pages through the Canon website.
About Canon U.S.A., Inc.
Canon U.S.A., Inc., is a leading provider of consumer, business-to-business, and industrial digital imaging solutions. With approximately $45.6 billion in global revenue, its parent company, Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ), ranks third overall in U.S. patents registered in 2011† and is one of Fortune Magazine’s World’s Most Admired Companies in 2012. Canon U.S.A. is committed to the highest levels of customer satisfaction and loyalty, providing 100 percent U.S.-based consumer service and support for all of the products it distributes. Canon U.S.A. is dedicated to its Kyosei philosophy of social and environmental responsibility. To keep apprised of the latest news from Canon U.S.A., sign up for the Company’s RSS news feed by visiting www.usa.canon.com/rss.
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† Based on weekly patent counts issued by United States Patent and Trademark Office.
All referenced product names, and other marks, are trademarks of their respective owners.
Availability, prices, and specifications of all products are subject to change without notice. Actual prices are set by individual dealers and may vary.