EOS C500 Cinema Camera (EF Lens Mount)
The Cinema EOS C500 4K Digital Cinema Camera capitalizes on the groundbreaking ergonomic design of the EOS C300 camera, and offers a Super 35mm, 8.85-megapixel CMOS image sensor, DIGIC DV III Image Processor and an expansive range of recording and output options specifically for 4K and 2K image acquisition. Addressing the discrete needs of cinema and TV, the EOS C500 offers two forms of 4K origination - productions can dynamically select DCI (SMPTE 2048-1:2011 standard) or the alternative television-centric Quad-HD (SMPTE 2036-1:2009 and ITU-R BT.1769 standards) source image formats.
The EOS C500 features uncompressed Canon RAW output for both 4K and 2K recording. The Canon RAW output is delivered to external recording systems via built-in dual 3G-SDI ports. Dual uncompressed HD-SDI out ports supports external live monitoring. HD content can be written to dual onboard CF cards simultaneously to provide proxy video for offline NLE systems.
Canon has collaborated with some of the most respected names in the industry to ensure the Cinema EOS C500's output works seamlessly with external digital recording units, portable and master monitors, and on set DIT systems. The Cinema EOS C500 provides flexibility in 4K and 2K recording to allow production teams to maximize the efficiency in their production and post-production workflows.
4K/2K Workflow
The EOS C500 fully supports both 4K and 2K image resolutions; as such, it is the ideal choice for demanding video productions across a wide gamut that ranges from high-quality commercials and TV dramas to motion-picture releases. A 4K workflow offers four times the resolution of standard high-definition acquisition, resulting in life-like theatrical presentations, a familiar, film-style workflow, full versatility during post-production, and added flexibility for visual effects.
Canon design engineers have developed a 4K/2K acquisition platform and matching workflow for the video and motion-picture industries. With 4K rapidly moving to become the de facto standard for theatrical projection, the need for high-resolution acquisition is a production reality. The EOS C500 is designed to fit seamlessly with projects shot entirely in 4K, or for mixed 4K/2K productions. Coupled to external data recorders, the EOS C500 is a true “4K powerhouse,” while still retaining the flexibility to handle standard HD workflows.
For enhanced creativity, and to accommodate a variety of workflows, the EOS C500 offers a range of 10- and 12-bit imaging modes. These comprise: 4K Output Priority Mode in resolutions up to 4096x2160 pixels; 2K Output Priority Mode in resolutions up to 2048x1080 pixels; and internal MXF File format recording up to 50 Mbps, utilizing MPEG-2 data compression at a variety of user-selectable frame rates and image resolutions.
Because the discrete needs of cinema and television production can vary from project to project, the EOS C500 offers two forms of 4K origination. Users can dynamically select either the DCI source-image format – SMPTE 2048-1:2011 standard – or the alternative, TV-centric Quad-HD source-image format – SMPTE 2036-1:2009 and ITU-R BT.1769 standards.
For added flexibility, the EOS C500 lets users select uncompressed Canon RAW output for use in both 4K and 2K productions. Instead of utilizing the built-in Compact Flash/CF storage media, Canon RAW-format output is delivered to external recording systems via built-in dual 3G-SDI ports. Dual uncompressed HD-SDI outputs support external monitoring. To provide proxy video sources for offline non-linear video editing systems, HD content can also be written simultaneously to dual, onboard CF cards.
2K/Full HD images can be output as either RGB 4:4:4 12-bit/10-bit or YCC 4:2:2 10-bit data for both 59.94Hz and 50Hz projects at up to 50 Mbps rates; because of data-bandwidth restrictions, recording onto the EOS C500's built-in Compact Flash/CF card drive are made at Full HD resolutions. As well as serving as a primary source for video capture, HD images streamed onto the CF card can be used as proxies for off-line editorial.
Cinema RAW Capture
The EOS C500 lets you capture images in a choice of 4K Cinema RAW and 4K Half Cinema RAW modes at frame rates up to, respectively, 60 fps and 120 fps, with 10-bit resolution. For enhanced flexibility, these two Bayer RAW modes are offered in a choice of Digital Cinema Initiatives/DCI 1.895:1 or Quad Full High Definition/QFHD 16:9 aspect ratios.
4K RAW data output from the EOS C500 image sensor can be recorded using about one-third of the space required for 4K RGB data, and Cinema RAW-based recording systems offer an enhanced degree of creative freedom during post-processing.
Primary applications for Cinema RAW include video production for high-end commercials and major motion-picture releases, in addition to footage for high-quality visual effects. 4K Cinema RAW data output can be processed using the Cinema RAW Development software application, which is available through the Canon website.
Expanded EF Lens Communication
With the November 5th, 2015 firmware update, EF Lens communication has been expanded to allow servo lens control from the from the RC-V100 remote control. An external battery/power source is necessary to drive the lens, as power cannot be supplied by the camera.
Canon EOS C500 with EF-Lens Mount
To integrate easily into the working style and equipment array of film crews and production houses, the EOS C500 with a Canon EF-lens mount is completely compatible with all of Canon's EF lenses, including compact primes, super telephotos, specialty Tilt-Shift, Macro and Fisheye lenses - over 60 in all.
Canon MPEG-2 4:2:2 50 Mbps XF Codec
The EOS C500 features a Canon-designed Super 35mm, 16:9 CMOS sensor with full 4K resolution capable of delivering pristine-quality, 8.85-megapixel images needed for commercial applications with minimal moiré and other artifacts. Based on the same technology as the well-received EOS C300, the EOS C500's High-Sensitivity CMOS image sensor has the additional ability to directly output full 4K, 10-bit RAW Bayered data through two dedicated 3G-SDI connectors. The sensor's large, Super 35mm size lets you capture cinematic shallow depth-of-field imagery, yet maintain the enhanced image characteristics demanded by professional cinematographers.
By maintaining a wide pixel pitch, the sensor maximizes the amount of light that falls on each photo site, thereby enhancing the EOS C500's sensitivity and reducing image noise. By using a single CMOS sensor to capture individual Red, Green and Blue channels for each Full HD 1920x1080 frame, the EOS C500 produces color performance that is comparable with conventional three-chip designs. Of course, during 4K recording, the EOS C500 uses a debayering algorithm to process and output a full-resolution 4096x2160 image.
Canon Log Gamma
The EOS C500 features a log gamma setting that sets the camera to maximize dynamic range and provide wide exposure latitude. The files produced using log format are ideal for post-production processes where corrections, color matching and grading are applied. It provides users with a high level of creative freedom in post-production without substantially degrading the image quality. When using Canon Log, the EOS C500 can provide a dynamic range up to 800%. Canon Log Gamma can be applied in any EOS C500 recording or output mode.
Terminal Connectors
The EOS C500 comes complete with essential I/O interfaces via professional-grade BNC and multi-pin connectors.
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Two 3G-SDI connectors output the Canon Log Gamma and audio signals at resolution and frame rates established within the EOS C500's 4K/2K priority modes.
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Two Monitor connectors can be used to feed a video signal to an external monitor in 4K/2K priority mode, with a choice of either Rec709 or Wide DR color-adjustment, look-up tables (LUTs). (Marker, zebra and peaking signals can be set to output to only one of the monitor ports.) Signal format is YCC 4:2:2, 10-bit.
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A Sync Out connection carries a choice of HD Sync/HD-Y or SD black burst/composite signals.
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A Genlock Input can be used for synchronizing the camera with an external video device.
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A Timecode In/Out connector enables the EOS C500 to either lock to external timecode or feed its internally generated timecode to external systems.
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An HD/SD SDI connector serves as a standard interface for commercial HD equipment, with multiplexed audio and video signals in a digital format.
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Two XLR Audio connectors are provided on the modular monitor control unit. The audio inputs provide 2-channel audio recording with the ability to switch between line-level, mic-level and mic-level with phantom power supply.
Designed from the ground up to maximize shooting comfort and usability, the EOS C500's modular design enables different components to be added or removed as required to meet the needs of a particular shooting scenario, and also to increase the comfort of a camera operator. In addition to the core camera body, the EOS C500 features a low-angle, camera-handle extension plus a removable LCD Monitor and control panel with XLR audio inputs. (However, to accommodate the EOS C500's 3G SDI outputs, the handgrip is fixed in a single position and not removable.)
The EOS C500 features an Ultra-High Resolution 1.55 Megapixel EVF with approximately 100% field-of-view coverage for comfortable viewing and accurate image composition, focus and color adjustment. The viewfinder's angle is adjustable for additional user comfort. The Camera Control Unit features a 4-inch, 1.23 Megapixel rotating LCD screen that offers approximately 100% field-of-view coverage. Mounted onto the camera control pad, the display panel can be freely rotated to provide the operator with flexible viewing angles and convenient access to the control panel. For added flexibility, the panel can also be mounted in different positions to accommodate different viewing positions required by the operator, director or producer. Such flexibility and ease of movement makes the display easier to use than a rigid design that can be easily bumped during a shoot.
Full Manual Control
The EOS C500 incorporates a number of built-in features that camera cinematographers and camera operators need to ensure accurate exposure and color levels during production.
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A versatile waveform monitor provides detailed analyses of both overall image brightness and RGB Components.
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To check color balance and view the effects of white-balance adjustments, an on-board vectorscope displays real-time image hue and saturation analysis.
The EOS 500 offers full manual control of all functions, including iris, shutter speed, gain, zoom, focus and audio levels, thereby allowing the camera operators to adapt to both technical and artistic challenges during the shooting. For maximum customization, you have access to Custom Picture Settings, Custom Functions and Custom Display Options to tailor the EOS C500 precisely to your specific needs.
For situations in which conditions require critical focusing, the EOS C500 offers several focus aids. A pair of Peaking Modes and a Magnify Focus Assist are available in both standby and record mode, making it extremely easy to check and confirm critical focus settings. An Edge Monitor Focus Assist system, which was first introduced with the Canon XF Series camcorders, shows overall focus of the image plus focus status of focus-check boxes.
During internal CF recording mode, the EOS C500 provides a Slow and Fast Motion Mode that can be used to record at a different frame rate than the playback frame rate, thereby resulting in either a fast or slow motion effect. Because the EOS C500 is recording real frames, and simply modifying the data playback rate, there is no overall quality loss due to interpolation; maximum image quality is maintained. In HD 1080 mode, fast motion is supported at up to 30-times normal rate and as slow as 1/1.25 sec.; in HD 720 mode, fast motion is supported up to 60-times the normal rate, and as slow as 1/2.5 seconds. In 4K/2K output modes the camera provides variable frame rate control that can be output to external recorders.
The EOS C500 incorporates an interval recording function. With this feature set, users can program the camera to record a specified number of frames at specified intervals for time-lapse capture.
WFT-E6 Wi-Fi® unit with Remote Capabilities
The EOS C500 can be used with the optional WFT-E6A Wi-Fi transmitter to provide unique capabilities not found in competitive units. Using any web-enabled devices such as a laptop PC, smartphone or tablet, you can control and adjust a number of the EOS C500's operational functions, including camera start and stop plus shooting parameters, in addition to monitoring a remote video feed and inputting session metadata. A built-in Bluetooth sensor will communicate automatically with external GPS units to secure location data that can be embedded with your video footage.
Covergent Design Odyssey 7Q
The Odyssey7Q is able to record more formats and signal types than any other recorder in the world. Included in the Odyssey7Q is Apple ProRes recording in HD/2K up to 60p and UHD/4K up to 30p. Also included is Uncompressed DPX video recording in HD/2K in 10/12-bit up to 60p.
The Odyssey RAW Bundle is an upgrade that allows recording of ARRIRAW (ALEXA), Canon Cinema RAW (C500) Sony FS RAW (FS7/FS700), POV RAW (IO Industries, Indiecam) and CION RAW (Available with upcoming firmware release). FS RAW and Canon Cinema RAW also feature the ability to convert RAW signals into virtually-lossless Apple ProRes video files. Canon RAW, ARRIRAW and POV RAW are each available for daily rental at $99/day. Additional recording formats will be added via firmware releases.
With upcoming firmware releases Odyssey7Q+ and Odyssey7Q will be upgradeable to Dual-Stream recording of two simultaneous 1080p signals via dual SDI connections or a combination of HDMI and SDI.
Shortly after the Dual-Stream Record Option Upgrade is introduced we will be introducing a Multi-Stream Record Option Upgrade which will enable the recording of up to four simultaneous 1080p signals. Files will be recorded as Apple ProRes MOV files, including a live-switch file and an edit decision list (EDL) in an XML file. Both options will be available as paid upgrades through our online store.
The Odyssey7Q features a 7.7” OLED screen with 1280x800 resolution. The OLED display provides true blacks and accurate colors. A full complement of image analysis tools include a waveform (luma or RGB parade), a histogram (luma or RGB parade), zebra, programmable False Color, Pixel Zoom with finger drag, a three-mode Focus Assist and LUTs.
The included LUTs provide proper viewing of the LOG and RAW modes available from numerous popular cameras, with programmable LUTs coming in the future. These tools are controlled by the easy to use touchscreen interface and are available to view on the OLED or optionally on the SDI and HDMI video outputs of the Odyssey7Q.
View up to four HD video signals at once as a quad-split screen, or live-switch between inputs. Great for multi-camera shoots and live streaming.
All formats are available for immediate playback directly on the Odyssey7Q. Full deck controls or tablet-style touchscreen scrubbing through clips makes playback quick and easy. On ProRes files, clip markers are available to quickly pinpoint important material. Image Analysis Tools are also available in Play Mode.