Canon Unveils New EOS Cinema Camera & Lens
Posted on Jun 10, 2024 by Samara Husbands
Discover the new Canon EOS C400 cinema camera, featuring an RF mount and advanced CN7x17 KAS T lens, designed to redefine versatility in filmmaking
Canon has unveiled its latest addition to the cinema camera lineup, the EOS C400, featuring an RF mount and the innovative CN7x17 KAS T lens. Designed to elevate large-scale productions, this new camera system promises to redefine versatility in the filmmaking industry.
Adapting to the evolving needs of the market, the EOS C400 is an all-in-one solution tailored to support a vast range of productions, from indie cinema and documentaries to live and virtual broadcasts, and even electronic news gathering. This camera is the first high-end RF mount cinema EOS model, marking a significant advancement in Canon’s EOS R System.
Cutting-Edge Features for Superior Performance
Compact Yet Powerful Design
The EOS C400’s innovative design packs advanced features and specifications typically found in larger cameras into a more nimble, box-shaped body. This compact form prioritises ease of use and operability without compromising on capability. Key in-camera connectivity options, such as genlock, return input, and a 12-pin lens terminal, support live multi-camera productions, enhancing its utility in dynamic shooting environments.
Advanced Sensor Technology
Equipped with a 6K full-frame backside-illuminated, stacked CMOS sensor (BSI), the EOS C400 boasts 16 stops of dynamic range. This technology enhances light capture efficiency and facilitates faster readouts, ensuring superior image quality. The introduction of Canon’s triple base ISO technology sets a new standard, offering optimal performance in low-light conditions. With base ISO levels of 800, 3,200, and 12,800 in Canon Log 2 or 3, users gain greater flexibility in challenging lighting environments. An automatic switching mode further simplifies the shooting process by detecting ambient lighting and adjusting the base ISO level accordingly.
RF Mount Integration
The EOS C400 supports Canon’s RF mount technology, seamlessly integrating with a wide array of RF prime, zoom, hybrid, cinema, and VR lenses. For added flexibility, the camera also supports various Canon EF-EOS R mount adapters and the new PL-RF mount adaptor. Enhanced metadata capabilities and connectivity options facilitate real-time frame-by-frame data capture, boosting VFX and virtual production workflows.
Dual Pixel CMOS AF II
Canon introduces Dual Pixel CMOS AF II to its cinema EOS system with the EOS C400, offering filmmakers improved autofocus features. With comprehensive 100% coverage across the sensor plane, the Dual Pixel CMOS AF II delivers swift and precise performance, enhancing filmmaking clarity and reliability. Additional benefits include face, eye, body, and animal detection and tracking, particularly useful for solo operators in fast-paced environments.
Flexible Recording Formats
The EOS C400 provides multiple internal recording formats, allowing users to tailor the format to their specific needs. Options include Canon’s scalable 12-bit Cinema RAW Light LT/ST/HQ, reliable 4:2:2 10-bit XF-AVC, and the new MP4-based XF-AVC S and XF-HEVC S formats. These options accommodate various professional requirements, supporting detailed filmmaking workflows with professional filename and metadata support.
Compact Design and Enhanced Accessories
Building on the design of the EOS C500 Mark II, the EOS C400 offers an even more compact form while maintaining an extensive array of connectivity options. This enables operators to access the full suite of features typically associated with larger production cameras without the burden of size, weight, or additional modules. Enhanced accessories, such as a versatile LCD bracket, advanced top handle, and improved hand grip, offer compatibility with various shooting styles, whether handheld, on a gimbal, drone, or shoulder-mounted.
Introducing the CN7x17 KAS T Cine Servo Lens
Canon also debuts the CN7x17 KAS T lens, available with either RF or PL mount. This lens is an evolution of the previous CN7x lens, with updates designed to enhance operational performance and compatibility with virtual and VFX workflows. Its 7x optical zoom and 17-120mm focal length make it ideal for live sports, news, documentary, film, remote, and virtual productions. Features like improved connectivity between the lens and camera, real-time lens distortion correction, and enhanced metadata support streamline production processes.
EOS C300 Mark III Firmware Update
Canon is releasing a free firmware update for the EOS C300 Mark III, adding 12-bit Cinema RAW Light formats (LT, ST, HQ), improving workflow flexibility and providing more post-production options. An Auto ISO feature will also be introduced to seamlessly transition between dynamic lighting conditions in continuous shots.
New Lens and Lighting Accessories
Canon also introduces the RF 35mm F1.4L VCM, a hybrid lens designed for both stills and video, and the new Speedlite EL-10, which aims to elevate portrait photography with controllable lighting.
