When Canon officially announced its next mirrorless camera, the EOS R5, a number of specifications stood out.
The camera promised to right the wrongs of the EOS R/RP pair, by including in-body image stabilization, 20 frames-per-second shooting with an electronic shutter, and dual card slots.
But as impressive as these features seemed, most incredible of all was Canon’s claim that the EOS R5 would offer 8K video.
Note that the current standard for mirrorless cameras is 4K/30p shooting, with cameras offering 4K/60p considered especially suited for more serious videographers.
And while the best of these cameras produce 4K video using the full width of the camera sensor, others are plagued by a crop factor, one that turns wide-angle lenses into standard focal lengths.
Given the current state of the market, 8K video would be impressive. And true 8K video, using the full width of the sensor, would be more than that; it would be groundbreaking, especially considering the fact that Canon has consistently failed to produce true 4K video in its mirrorless bodies. Both the EOS R and the EOS RP, Canon’s current main mirrorless bodies, incorporate a frustrating 1.7x crop.
Even the Canon 1D X Mark III, Canon’s brand new flagship DSLR, can only shoot true 4K/60p video.
So when Canon’s initial announcement included the mention of “8K video capture,” photographers were understandably skeptical. Most thought it was a marketing ploy, and that the 8K capabilities would be significantly hobbled in some way.
In fact, photographers were so vocal in their skepticism that Canon has stepped up to dismiss such rumors.
The imaging company stated in a recent press release:
Canon Inc. confirms the EOS R5’s video capabilities will exceed that of competing cameras on the market. With its ability to internally record 8K using the full width of the sensor at up to 30p, the latest EOS R camera is set to redefine mirrorless with its market-leading features.
Canon goes on to indicate that the EOS R5 will offer Dual Pixel autofocus in 8K, and that the camera will also include “advanced animal AF,” which will allow it to recognize “dogs, cats, and birds.”
If Canon was hoping to make a splash with this announcement, they’ve certainly succeeded. The Canon EOS R5 will undoubtedly be groundbreaking on all fronts, for still shooters and videographers alike.
Now over to you:
What do you think of this announcement? Will you be purchasing the EOS R5? Do you see a need for 8K? Share your thoughts in the comments!
