Canon unveils 8K EOS R5 C cinema mirrorless
Posted on Jan 20, 2022
Canon has taken the wraps off the new EOS R5 C, a hybrid cinema camera which combines the professional filmmaking features of the Cinema EOS range with the EOS R System’s photo capabilities
It is based on the current EOS R5 but has key changes for filmmakers such as a cooling fan to stop overheating, timecode and a multi-interface shoe for professional audio accessories.
Like the EOS R5, it still shares a full frame CMOS sensor, DIGIC X processor and the RF Mount, 8K video capture, and 45 megapixel still photo capture at burst speeds up to 20 frames per second.
Canon says it is its first true hybrid Cinema EOS camera, as it is capable of internal 8K 30p RAW recording and up to 60p when using an external power source. Thanks to the internal active cooling system, creators can enjoy hours of filming in high-quality 8K. There is HDR support via PQ and HLG, as well as Canon’s popular Canon Log 3 gamma.
The camera boasts Canon’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF system, the offering Eye AF and EOS iTR AF X. This advanced auto focus technology tracks people’s eyes in real time and can even follow their head as they look away from the camera. Working in combination with the Optical IS in compatible lenses, the camera also features electronic image stabilisation for smooth footage and sharp imagery.
Thanks to the 45-megapixel sensor and DIGIC X processor, the EOS R5 C features cutting-edge still image performance and blisteringly fast burst rates up to 20 frames per second. The DIGIC X processor also enables noise processing that enable sensitivity as high as 51,200 ISO – perfect for shooting in low-light environments, such as at indoor sporting events. And 10-bit HEIF still images can be captured with extended dynamic range and colour gamut. Additional options are available with the interval timer enabling the capture of incredible high-resolution time-lapse content.
Streamlined 8K workflows
The EOS R5 C records Cinema RAW Light internally, to sustain high fidelity 12-bit footage with a wide dynamic range and colour gamut, all in a manageable file size. Canon has also introduced three newly developed variations of RAW, including RAW HQ (High Quality), RAW ST (Standard Quality), and RAW LT (Light Quality), so users can select the mode based on their shooting needs and production process. Two card slots – a CFexpress 2.0 Type B and UHS-II SD card slot – allow for advanced simultaneous recording options where different formats, resolutions and bit depths can be recorded to each card at the same time for flexible workflow options. This includes audio recording when shooting at 4K 120p.
Along with 12-bit Cinema RAW Light, the EOS R5 C supports Canon’s popular 10-bit XF-AVC format up to 810Mbps and highly versatile MP4 options. Using its full frame 8K sensor, the EOS R5 C enables 4K and Full HD recording with exceptional clarity, colour and low noise through internal oversampling. This also facilitates recording of High Frame Rate content at 4K 120p resolution, without cropping the angle of view and maintaining auto focus functionality.
Versatility and connectivity
Built using the innovative RF mount, which features a short flange focal distance as well as a 12-pin connection for faster communication between the camera body and lens, the EOS R5 C can be used with lenses from across Canon’s EF, RF and cinema lens line-up, as well as third-party anamorphic lenses to achieve a wider aspect ratio for the silver screen. As demands for VR content increase, the combination of 8K video with Canon’s new RF 5.2mm F2.8L Dual Fisheye Lens, simplifies the production of immersive VR footage from capture to editing.
As well as the flexibility of lenses, this camera has the same Multi-Function Accessory Shoe found on the EOS R3 and XF605 for directly connecting and powering accessories such as Canon’s DM-E1D Stereo Microphone, Canon Speedlight 470EX-AI and TASCAM’s CA-XLR2d Audio XLR Adapter.
The EOS R5 C has also been fitted with a dedicated Timecode In/Out terminal for integrating into a professional multi-camera solution. With advanced connectivity, users can make use of the Content Transfer Mobile application for FTP transfers and the editing of ML-G2 metadata – perfect for news gathering and solo shooters.
Compact body
The EOS R5 C has two separate menus for stills and video – the EOS R system and Cinema EOS interface. Controlled by the 3-position power dial, users can switch between modes and access the relevant settings. With 13 assignable buttons and a range of professional video features, the EOS R5 C allows for incredible customisation. This cinema powerhouse also features a 0.5-inch high-resolution OLED viewfinder with 5.76 million dots for accurate image analysis, a dot-matrix display on the top for quickly checking camera settings and a bright articulating 3.2-inch HD LCD monitor for convenient viewing from multiple angles during the day or night.
Designed with solo shooters in mind, the EOS R5 C employs an ultra-lightweight 680g chassis – making it the smallest and lightest Cinema EOS camera to date. While compact in nature, this camera features a durable magnesium alloy body and is dust and weather-resistant, thanks to an intuitive design that separates airflow from the electrical components. The EOS R5 C will be available in March and will retail at £4,499.99 / $4500.
For more information, please visit the Canon website.
