Canon Announces XC-15 4K UHD Camcorder

Canon XC-15 4K UHD Camcorder

I am still on my Southern Africa wildlife photo shoot testing the Canon EOS-1D X Mark II camera. You can follow my travels on Twitter and Facebook.

MELVILLE, N.Y., September 1, 2016 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, announced today the XC15 4K Video Camcorder, a 4K UHD digital video camcorder for professional use that achieves high-image quality with a lightweight, compact body.

The new Canon XC15, which builds on the XC10 4K UHD digital video camcorder announced in April 2015, enables shooting with an external microphone through an XLR input and features the selection of visual-expression “Look” modes, including modes that allow it to match the look of other Canon professional cameras, making it ideal for use as a “B”-camera as well as for media and video-content productions.

The Canon XC15 ships with the MA-400 microphone adapter that, when attached, enables shooting with XLR-input microphones used in a wide range of media and content-creation applications. As a result, the camcorder supports the production of content that combines both high-image quality and high-sound quality with reduced noise. The MA-400 is also compatible with the EOS C300 Mark II camera.

Thanks to its high-sensitivity one-inch CMOS sensor and DIGIC DV 5 image processing platform with high calculation-processing power, the new XC15 is capable of capturing high-image quality and low-noise 4K UHD video. Additionally, the camcorder features a compact, lightweight body design, measuring approximately 5.0 x 4.1 x 4.8 inches (WxHxD) and weighs approximately 2.1 pounds while also sporting a 10x optical zoom lens1, which facilitates shooting in confined spaces and environments that demand mobility.

The Canon XC15 4K UHD professional video camcorder is scheduled to be available in September 2016 for a list price of $3,000.00.* For more information, please visit usa.canon.com

Canon Announced XA30 and XA35 Professional Camcorders

Canon XA 35 HD Camcorder

I have just gotten back from my Polar Bear Photo Tour in the Canadian sub Arctic. Trying to catch up on some Canon photo news when I was away. It was quite a productive trip. The weather was 'milder' than past years and I will be processing the photos when I have a chance to rest up and look at them.

Sydney, Australia, 11 November 2015 – Canon Australia today announces the addition of two handheld video cameras to its X-series, the XA35 (US$3,000) and XA30 (US$2,500). Designed for professionals and enthusiasts alike, the highly compact and lightweight models feature a newly developed HD CMOS Pro sensor which provides higher sensitivity and improved low-light performance. Both cameras also include new Wide Dynamic Range (DR) and Highlight Priority settings, making them suitable for shooting everything from news and documentaries, to weddings and corporate films.

First-class image quality and video processing performance

Utilising Canon’s heritage in optical expertise and advanced technologies, the newly designed 1/2.84-type 2.91 megapixel HD CMOS Pro sensor has enhanced sensitivity with improved signal-to-noise ratio. As a result, images are crisp and clear, even in low-light environments. Low-light shooting opportunities are further boosted by improved infrared performance, ideal for users capturing nocturnal wildlife or night-time documentaries.

The 20x zoom wide-angle lens offers a 26.8-576mm (35mm equivalent) focal range and employs Canon’s intelligent 5-axis Optical Image Stabilization System with Dynamic IS. The lens also features an 8 blade circular aperture to give enhanced ‘bokeh’.

The XA35 and XA30 features two new settings – Wide DR and Highlight Priority. In Wide DR mode, the cameras are able to achieve 600% dynamic range, resulting in bright images with high contrast that retain detail in both highlight and shadow areas, without the need for post-production. When using the High Priority settings, users are able to produce footage with more natural tones and richer colours, particularly in areas of high brightness1, perfect for scenes with bright skies and reflective surfaces.

Both models also feature slow and fast recording modes, supporting a range of shooting scenarios with interval recording options up to a maximum of 1200x normal speed.

Canon Announced High Performance 2/3” Field Broadcast Lenses

UHD DIGISUPER 86 (UJ86x9.3B) and UHD DIGISUPER 90 (UJ90x9B)

United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, 7 September 2015 – Canon today introduces two new 2/3” 4K field lenses – the UHD DIGISUPER 86 (UJ86x9.3B) and UHD DIGISUPER 90 (UJ90x9B). Delivering exceptional optical performance, with the UHD DIGISUPER 86 (UJ86x9.3B) surpassing even 4K resolution, both offer outstanding focal range and are ideal for use within live broadcast production environments.

First class 4K image performance

The UHD DIGISUPER 86 (UJ86x9.3B) and UHD DIGISUPER 90 (UJ90x9B) are part of Canon’s evolving 2/3” 4K lens line-up and join the recently launched CJ12ex4.3B in the range. Both provide professionals with the freedom to shoot live broadcast or sport events in stunning 4K quality, and in a first for Canon’s 2/3” lens line-up, the UHD DIGISUPER 86 (UJ86x9.3B) offers resolving power beyond 4K.

The new lenses ensure exceptional resolution from the image centre to the edges, at both telephoto and wide angle, thanks to their advanced optical construction. Additionally, an increased use of fluorite and UD glass, combined with Canon’s expert use of coatings, results in exceptional control over ghosting and flare with sharp, high contrast images supporting a large number of tones.

Outstanding focal range and versatility

The new models provide ultimate flexibility – the UHD DIGISUPER 86 (UJ86x9.3B) has an 86x zoom, with a focal range of 9.3mm – 800mm, and the UHD DIGISUPER 90 (UJ90x9B) goes even further to 90x, with a 9mm – 810mm focal range. To ensure operators can capture a diverse range of scenes, both lenses also feature a built-in 2x extender which doubles the telephoto power, while maintaining exceptional 4K resolution.

4K scenarios such as live sport, do not tolerate even the slightest amount of shake. Thanks to Canon’s optical Image Stabilizer technologies, the UHD DIGISUPER 86 (UJ86x9.3B) and UHD DIGISUPER 90 (UJ90x9B) deliver crisp, clear results, acquiring maximum precision, even during panning. This is essential for tracking moving subjects at sports matches and events, while compensating for swing-back. Additionally, operators are able to keep subjects in focus, even in challenging situations, such as when long focus but shallow depth of field is required.

Built to perform

The UHD DIGISUPER 86 (UJ86x9.3B) and UHD DIGISUPER 90 (UJ90x9B) feature a compact design, comparable in size and weight to current HD 2/3” field lenses, allowing easy integration into operating environments. Both lenses also incorporate a 20-pin connector for integration with virtual systems and are fully compatible with existing Canon accessories designed for 2/3” HD Canon field lenses.

UHD DIGISUPER 86 (UJ86x9.3B) key benefits :

• Outstandingly high resolution 2/3” 4K field lens with 86x zoom and 9.3-800mm focal length (up to 1600mm with 2x built-in extender)
• Class-leading beyond-4K performance right to the edge of the image and throughout the zoom range for unmatched quality
• High contrast and high resolution in all wavelength regions of the B, G and R channels in the 4K and beyond 4K frequency bands
• Similar size and weight to HD field lenses for seamless integration with existing HDTV technical setups and shooting environments
• Beyond 4K resolution even with image stabilisation applied
• Full support for virtual systems thanks to the built-in 16-bit encoder
• Fully compatible with existing Canon HD field lens accessories

UHD DIGISUPER 90 (UJ90x9B) key benefits :

• 2/3” 4K field lens with 90x zoom and 9-810mm focal length (up to 1620mm with the 2x built-in extender)
• Achieve stunning 4K resolution from 2/3” 4K cameras that extends right from the centre of the image
• Retain stunning 4K resolution even with image stabilisation applied
• Similar size and weight to HD field lenses mean it seamlessly integrates with existing HDTV technical setups and shooting environments.
• Sustained 4K performance with precise focus and high zoom ratio
• Cover wide spaces like large sports arenas with a single lens thanks to the wide focal range
• Full support for virtual systems thanks to the built-in 16-bit encoder
• Fully compatible with existing Canon HD field lens accessories

Canon Developing Lightweight 4K Projector

Canon LCOS 4K projector

TOKYO, September 1, 2015 - Canon Inc. announced today that it is developing an LCOS projector capable of displaying 5,000 lumen video and still images at a resolution of 4,096 x 2,400 pixels, a level of definition that surpasses the 4,096 x 2,160 pixel-resolution of 4K digital cinema.

Tracing its beginnings to the movie industry, 4K-resolution content has been gaining traction in the broadcasting industry. Amid ongoing advances in image quality and definition made possible by the introduction of a growing number of 4K production tools, Canon is leveraging its proprietary optical technologies to make its entry into the 4K projector market in 2016.

In addition to growing demand for high-resolution, high-quality imaging performance, there is an increased need for projectors that enable projection from close-range installation locations and offer compatibility with a variety of installation environments to facilitate use in such settings as museums with limited available space, driving and flight simulators, and on the design scene. In response to these needs, Canon is developing the 4K projector as a new model within its Power Projector (REALiS and XEED in other regions) series that not only achieves high brightness and high resolution, but also has a compact and lightweight body to accommodate a range of installation environments.

Equipped with a high-definition 4,096 x 2,400 pixel LCOS panel, the Canon 4K projector under development will support the projection of high-definition content that exceeds the resolution offered by 4K digital cinema. While increases in brightness performance for projectors commonly require larger lamps and cooling systems, resulting in increases in projector body size, Canon’s proprietary AISYS optical system delivers bright 5,000 lumens performance while making possible significant reductions in body size and weight. Additionally, the projector will feature a newly developed 4K wide zoom lens capable of projecting large images from a short throw distance, as well as an optical focusing function that enables the projection of images on curved-surface screens.

Through the further enhancement of its Power Projector series lineup, Canon will strive to respond to the diverse needs of users.

Canon Patents - CN-E 20-100mm and CN-E 20-120mm Lens

The Japanese photography blog, Egami has uncovered two more Canon patents for Cine lens - CN-E 20-100mm T2.8 and a CN-E 20-120mm T2.8-T3.5. Additional patents were discovered a few days ago. Once the Canon EOS C300 Mk II camcorder starts shipping in earnest, we may see additional Cinema EOS lens announcement.

Patent Publication No. 2015-18083 (Google Translated)

•     Published 2015.1.29
•     Filing date 2013.7.10

Example 1

•     Zoom ratio 6.00
•     Focal length 21.00 87.93 125.94
•     F number 2.77 2.77 3.66
•     Half angle of 35.54 9.68 6.79
•     Image height 15.00
•     Overall length of the lens 314.76
•     BF 50.03

Example 2

•     Zoom ratio 5.00
•     Focal length 20.00 69.46 100.00
•     F number 2.76 2.77 2.77
•     Half angle of 36.50 12.03 8.42
•     Image height 14.80
•     Overall length of the lens 294.44
•     BF 50.07

Canon patents

•     Positive and negative positive and negative positive five-group zoom
•     Inner focus (part of the first group)
•     Inner zoom

Canon C300 Mk II 4K Videos By Yosh Enatsu

Canon C300 Mk II 4K camcorder

* * *  See hands-on videos and review of Canon C300 Mk II camcorder  * * *

Japanese director Yosh Enatsu used the new Canon EOS C300 Mk II camcorder with 4K capability to produce the two videos below. Canon’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology and manual focus assist modes are used.

For most Canon photographers shooting HD videos, the cameras used are probably the EOS-70D and EOS-7D Mk II, both equipped with the Dual CMOS AF technology and a line of STM lens to go with them.

Canon Demonstrates 4K Workflow At IBC 2015

LONDON, 13 July 2015 – Canon Europe will be demonstrating its end-to-end professional 4K workflow at IBC2015, the leading global tradeshow for media and broadcast professionals in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Canon, having exhibited at IBC for more than three decades, will showcase its first-class 4K range in its entirety for the first time in Europe – with 4K lenses, sensors and reference displays, all on show to demonstrate the company’s advanced glass-to-glass 4K workflow.

The Canon stand will include dedicated areas for live capture, providing visitors with the opportunity to get hands on with Canon’s 4K and Full HD product range through a series of shooting scenarios, review and editing processes. A variety of live demonstrations including cinema shooting and documentary shooting will also be available to visitors.

Canon’s Cinema EOS range has transformed the professional video industry since its introduction in 2011, with leading sensor technology, lens heritage and innovative product updates. In April 2015, the range expanded with the introduction of the next generation of 4K imaging devices, including the EOS C300 Mark II, a 4K video camera, and the DP-V2410, a lightweight and robust 24” 4K reference display. Both will be on display in Europe for the first time at IBC.

“As the industry realises the benefits of 4K within a professional workflow, Canon has been developing our product range to meet the needs of our professional imaging customers,” said Kieran Magee, Marketing Director, Canon Europe. “Canon recognises that demand for higher quality production is going to grow. This year at IBC Canon will be displaying the full set of tools needed for this next step forward in versatile 4K content production.”

At the show, broadcast and cinematography professionals will be able to get hands-on with Canon’s full range of 4K and Full HD products including the recently launched XC10 and the EOS C300 Mark II cameras, as well as having the opportunity to experience the full power of its optics portfolio. Industry professionals will also be able to experience the full power of the company’s optics portfolio with the opportunity to touch and try Canon’s extensive range of lenses, from broadcast to cinema and EF lenses.

Canon’s IBC stand can be found at Hall 11, stand E50.

For more information regarding Canon’s professional products and services please visit, http://cpn.canon-europe.com

Canon XC-10 4K Digital Camcorder Video

Canon XC-10 4K Digital Camcorder

“Battle of the Ages,” shot on the recently announced Canon XC10 4K digital camcorder, is an action-packed comedy from YouTube filmmaker Scott Winn. Riffing on the 1980s crime drama trope, “Battle of the Ages” features two young thugs who learn the hard way that appearances can be deceiving and age is nothing but a number. 

Scott captured his fearless cast of three professional parkour athletes through an exhilarating chase and an epic fight scene with the XC10 mounted on a Freefly MoVI M5. They also mounted the XC10 on a DJI Spreading Wings S1000 drone with a MoVI gimbal to get a bird’s eye view of all the action. You can see a review of the camera here.

Canon Develops Own Video Format For 4K Professional Camcorders

Canon Cinema EOS camera / camcorders

* * *   Cinema EOS C300 Mk II camera announced   * * *

* * *   Big price drop for EOS C100 and C300 cameras   * * *

TOKYO, April 8, 2015—Canon Inc. announced today the development of XF-AVC, a new proprietary video format for the efficient recording of high-image-quality 4K, 2K and HD video footage. Mainly targeting professional-use 4K video camcorders, XF-AVC will deliver enhanced workflows across various stages of the production process, from shooting to editing.

In recent years, the widespread use of digital data in cinema and video has become commonplace throughout the entire production workflow. Accordingly, amid growing demand for high-image-quality video, there have been increasing opportunities to record in 4K resolution video, which employs more than four times the number of pixels used in HD content. In light of this trend, Canon developed its XF-AVC video format to support greater workflow efficiency and convenience during the production process for high-image-quality video.

The new Canon XF-AVC is a standard that defines each recording method for the visual and audio data components that make up individual video files. Because XF-AVC employs the MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 video compression format, which realizes a high data-compression rate without sacrificing image quality, it supports the efficient recording on memory cards of high-image-quality 4K, 2K and HD video content captured on video camcorders. As a result, not only can external storage and other equipment required during shooting be kept compact, because it enables the recording of high-image-quality video data, the format also facilitates color grading and other high-precision editing processes.

Canon will employ XF-AVC primarily in the Company’s 4K-compatible professional-use video camcorders, such as the XC10 (to go on sale in mid June 2015) and EOS C300 Mark II (to go on sale in early September 2015). Additionally, by collaborating with various industry manufacturers in connection with the new video format, Canon will deliver improved ease and convenience during cinema and video production workflows for high-image-quality video.