The camera that is highly and eagerly awaited by photographers around the world, a camera body that has a rich history and pedigree, the Canon 5D series. Today, Canon announced the launch of the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV, a worthy successor to the proven, highly acclaimed, popular and workhorse professional camera Canon EOS 5D Mark III.
Personally, I was also very eager, awaiting for the official announcement of the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV, dating to a few months back when the news started to come out on the pending arrival of the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV. Reading and analysing the technical specifications and capabilities of the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV, this looks like another great DSLR by Canon.
I hope that I would have an opportunity to test and review the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV in the near future, sharing my views and thoughts on this awesome camera.
Let me share with you more information and details of the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV from the press release information below –
Canon today launched the highly anticipated EOS 5D Mark IV, the next successor in the popular EOS 5D series, offering professional photographers and filmmakers stellar performance and speed to deliver captivating narratives in both still and video formats. Canon’s EOS 5D series of full frame cameras has achieved a prestigious reputation since its launch in 2005, with models such as EOS 5D Mark III used to shoot independent films, TV shows and even Hollywood blockbusters. This is in addition to their longstanding popularity among landscape, studio and portrait photographers.
The EOS 5D Mark IV extends the legacy of the 5D series with improvements on key features found in the popular EOS 5D Mark III, and best-in-class technology and features found in professional EOS models like the EOS-1D X Mark II. Equipped with a 30.4 megapixel full-frame high-sensitivity sensor and Dual Pixel CMOS AF for rapid focusing speed, the EOS 5D Mark IV delivers exceptional performance in both stills and 4K video shooting. New features such as support for Dual Pixel Raw (DPRAW) format and 4K frame grabs will empower photographers with greater control when creating and capturing their shots.
“Continuing the legacy of the EOS 5D series, the EOS 5D Mark IV will be a game changer which revolutionise the way image creators work, by empowering them with significant technological enhancements,” said Edwin Teoh, Head of Marketing, Singapore Operations, Canon Singapore. “With its 4K screen grab capability, users will be able to extract high definition stills from their video footage, which opens up greater possibilities to explore with their craft.”
Remarkable still photo performance
Powered by a DIGIC 6+ image processor, the EOS 5D Mark IV features an in-camera Digital Lens Optimizer (DLO), which allows photographers to process and optimize JPEG files for chromatic aberration, peripheral illumination, and diffraction correction. This enhancement empowers users to quickly and easily correct JPEG files in-camera instead of via Digital Photo Professional (DPP), thus shortening the workflow for photographers.
At the heart of the EOS 5D Mark IV is a formidable 35mm full-frame CMOS sensor that delivers a resolution of up to 30.4 megapixels. This caters to the need for images shot in richer resolutions and quality that is essential when producing large format prints for commercial use. Professional users can also preserve image quality even through extensive cropping of their photos. The enhanced sensitivity (ISO speed of 100 to 32,000, expandable to 102,400) of the EOS 5D Mark IV also ensures pristine image quality even when shooting at high speeds.
A first in Canon’s range of cameras, the EOS 5D Mark IV comes equipped with Dual Pixel RAW (DPRAW) – a feature which enables adjustments to be made to images after a photo is taken. This new version of RAW image data contains Dual Pixel information that allows precise adjustments to be made in post-production via DPP, providing professional photographers an edge in terms of precision enhancements. With this feature, users can make micro adjustments to the position of maximum sharpness and resolution based on the depth of subject, reposition the viewpoint to horizontally shift the foreground bokeh, as well as reduce ghosting and flare effects in images.
The EOS 5D Mark IV is capable of shooting dynamic and fast moving subjects and scenes with a high speed continuous shooting at 7 frames per second (fps). Coupled with its 61-point all points selectable reticular AF system, 41-point cross type AF, this new AF system also covers a wider focusing area and an extended vertical coverage of approximately 24 percent at the sides and approximately 8.6% at centre. With this larger coverage area, users will have greater flexibility in composing and creating their shots. On top of this, all 61 points are compatible to effective aperture of f/8 or faster, hence auto focusing is possible when teleconverters are used with super telephoto lenses, well suited for wildlife and sports photographers.
Equipped with the EOS iTR AF (Intelligent Tracking and Recognition Auto Focus) and 150,000 pixels RGB+IR metering sensor, which utilises face recognition and colour tracking algorithm, users are allowed to accurately track a moving subject across all 61 AF points. The camera can sense flickering artificial lights with its flicker detection technology, and subsequently suppress any negative impact on exposure and white balance. In addition, it is capable of focusing down to a low intensity limit of EV-4 during live view mode, with an effective image area of approximately 80 percent of the screen. This allows photographers to achieve consistent focusing performance even under extremely challenging lighting conditions.
Professional 4K movie and image quality
The EOS 5D series has always been lauded for their impeccable video capabilities. The EOS 5D Mark IV takes this to the next level with its ability to shoot DCI 4K movies, providing users a more accessible camera equipped with some of the key features that the flagship EOS 1-D X Mark II is well-loved for.
With the EOS 5D Mark IV, users can shoot 4K movies at a smooth frame rate of 30p, with resolutions of up to 4096 x 2160 and an aspect ratio of 17:9 that matches cinema screens. The camera can also shoot in Full HD quality at 60p, and up to 120p for high frame rate HD movie. Footage shot in DCI 4K format can be used for various commercial purposes such as in cinema, or broadcasting. Users will have the flexibility to shoot videos in MOV format for movie productions, or MP4 format which supports a wide range of usage scenarios, including uploading onto social media sites. In addition, the EOS 5D Mark IV is able to transmit, play, and channel video files at uncompressed full HD quality when connected through a HDMI interface.
The EOS 5D Mark IV’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF also allows for the same high-speed, smooth phrase-difference detection AF system found on the EOS 1-D X Mark II. Users can focus on subjects with a quick tap on the touch screen LCD, while the Movie Servo AF will automatically track the subject throughout. Focus adjustment speeds and sensitivity can also be customised to suit users’ preferences.
With the EOS 5D Mark IV’s ability to shoot smooth 4K videos at 30fps, picture-perfect moments from a video can be extracted as a JPEG image at a resolution of approximately 8.8 mega pixels using the camera’s in-built 4K frame grab feature, suitable for creating A3 sized prints. Compared to 7fps continuous shooting in viewfinder mode, the 4K frame grab capability allows photographers to capture a decisive moment at a much higher speed.
The HDR movie function allows users can capture beautiful 30p videos in a brightly-lit environment without risking overexposure. In addition, the Time-lapse movie feature allows users to create time-lapse movies by gathering and connecting photos shot at regular intervals[1].
Wi-Fi/ NFC connectivity and in-built GPS
The EOS 5D Mark IV is designed with in-built Wi-Fi and Near Field Communications (NFC) capabilities. This enables users to easily transfer videos and images to external devices via FTP or FTPS service, via the Camera Connect app, or upload them directly on to social media sites. This potentially improves the workflow for many photographers, especially those in the field.
Remote shooting can be activated via the Camera Connect app, so users will have the flexibility to take photos or record videos from a distance using their smartphones. NFC enables quicker connection between the EOS 5D Mark IV and most NFC-enabled devices, and can be set up simply by tapping them together.
Equipped with an in-built GPS, the EOS 5D Mark IV can record location data of images into Exif data without requiring an external GPS unit. The ability to automatically record location details of where photos were taken would be especially useful for photographers who work on-the-go.
Sturdy design and easy operability
Built for durability, the EOS 5D Mark IV is designed for enhanced dust- and water-resistant performance, for use in challenging environments. The exterior body of the camera is protected and sealed with an outer rubber coating or dust/water-resistant sealing material at all of its joint areas[2].
With the Intelligent Viewfinder II, users will be able to check and adjust shooting functions without taking their eyes off the subject. They can also customise the display to include an electronic level and other functions[3]. With the electronic level displayed, users can view the current tilt and rotation of the camera, which makes it easier to compose their shots.
The EOS 5D Mark IV’s LCD monitor also features customisable touch panel functions, allowing users to quickly navigate menus and adjust settings such as shutter speeds, ISO speeds, and AF and AE functions. The touch shutter function also allows users to snap a photo simply by tapping the LCD screen to focus and shoot. Touch panel sensitivity can also be adjusted, or deactivated altogether. With its Touch AF capability, live-view shooting will be more intuitive and comfortable for users.
New lens and accessory to complement performance
The highly reputed EF24-105mm f/4L IS USM lens, originally released as a kit lens for the EOS 5D in 2005, has now been updated with the latest L series enhancements to match the higher rendering power of the EOS 5D line. These include improved optical performance, significant flare and ghosting suppression through the use of Air Sphere Coating (ASC), IS performance upgrades, fluorine coating for improved durability, and quieter operation to suit videography usage. The EF24-105mm f/4L IS II USM’s zoom range covers everything from wide-angle to mid-telephoto shots, to complement the versatility attainable with the EOS 5D Mark IV.
Also new to the EOS range of accessories is the optional BG-E20 battery grip. Featuring a slimmed down grip, it provides improved handling when shooting in portrait orientation. Powered by up to 2 LP-E6/ LP-E6N batteries, the BG-E20 prolongs the battery life, lending users extra support for long periods of movie or stills shooting. In addition, the grip is assembled with the same build quality as the EOS 5D Mark IV, a dust/water resistant design, to deliver the same level of durability.
Pricing and Availability
The EOS 5D Mark IV will be available at all Canon authorised dealers, at the following recommended retail prices:
Model | Recommended Retail Price |
EOS 5D Mark IV body | $5,199 |
EOS 5D Mark IV Kit (with EF24-70mm f/4L IS USM) | $6,249 |
EOS 5D Mark IV Kit (with EF24-105mm f/4L IS II USM) | $6,599 |
BG-E20 Battery Grip | $429 |
**** Note: The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Kit (with EF24-105mm f/4L IS II USM) will only be available in October 2016, and the price of the lens sold separately will be advised at a later date. ****
** Updated 8th September 2016 **
Product Specifications
EOS 5D Mark IV
Imaging Sensor: 30.4 mega-pixel 35mm Full-Frame CMOS sensor with Dual Pixel CMOS AF
Image Processor: DIGIC 6+
ISO Speed: ISO 100-32,000 (expandable to ISO 50 and 102,400)
Continuous Shooting Speed: Max Approx. 7 fps
AF Points: Max. 61 points (Max. 41 points Cross type AF,f/8 support for all 61 points)
Movie: 4K Motion Jpeg,Full HD, HD
Movie Recording Format: MOV, MP4
Wi-Fi: Yes (2.4 GHz)
NFC/GPS: Yes
Storage Media: CF + SD
LCD Monitor: 3.2” (approx. 1.62 million dots) touch screen
Dimensions (W X H X D): Approx. 150.7 x 116.4 x 75.9 mm
Weight: Approx. 800g (Body only)
EF24-105mm f/4L IS II USM lens
Focal length: 24-105mm
Maximum aperture: f/4
Minimum focusing distance: 0.45m
Maximum magnification: 0.24x
Lens Construction: 17 elements in 12 groups
Filter Size Dimension: 77mm
Aperture blades: 10
Dimensions: 118mm length, 83.5mm diameter
Weight: Approx. 795g
[1]The EOS 5D Mark IV can shoot photos at intervals as short as 1 second to as long as almost 100 hours, and it can be set to do this up to 3,600 times.
[2]Joint areas include the shutter release button, the lens mount, and the battery and memory card lids among many others.
[3]Other displayable functions include battery level, shooting mode and more.
* Information and pictures courtesy of Canon Singapore and Ogilvy Public Relations *