Canon EOS-1D X Mark III DSLR camera coming February 2020

* * *  Canon is working on a mirrorless EOS-1D R that accepts EF and RF lenses  * * *

As reported earlier, the successor to the Canon EOS-1D X Mark II camera, the Mark III is expected to be announced by Q1, 2020. The development announcement was made on October 24, 2019. Read my earlier post on the interview with the father of the Canon EOS-1 camera and see a preview of this camera here.

I have been an EOS-1 user since the line was introduced in 1989. The latest and possibly last EOS-1D X Mark III DSLR body may have the following specs :

• All new mid 20MP sensor (24MP most likely)
• Powered by dual DIGIC 9 processors
• In Body Image Stabilization (Possible but Unlikely)
• Deep Learning AF system through viewfinder and Live View 
• Dual card slots - 2 CFexpress
• 10-bit HEIF file capture (in addition to JPEG and Raw)
• Shoots Super 4K 60p 10 bit video without cropping
• 3.2 million-dot touch screen
• Optical viewfinder with more information than the Mk II model
• 61 AF points spread wider than Mark II model
• 525 AF points in Live Veiw
• AF-ON trackpad is fast and precise 
• LCD display on top of camera similar to EOS R
• Illuminated back buttons
• GPS plus built-in WiFi and Bluetooth
• Burst rate 16 fps in AF, 20 fps with LiveView
• Improved silent shooting mode. Completely 'silent'.
• Improved LP-E19 battery with extended life
• Release date - Q1 2020

Frankly, I find the present burst rate of the Mark II model more than adequate. The sensor and LCD screen can use a bump up in megapixels. The WiFi and Bluetooth features serve little purpose for me but may be useful for some landscape photography and photo journalism assignments. I am excited about the new AF capabilities, sensor IQ improvement and video enhancements.

Keep checking back for the latest development and information. I am very interested in getting this body. 

New Canon EOS-1D X Mark II Camera - $5,000 With Free Shipping

Their is a top rated merchant on eBay selling the new Canon EOS-1D X Mark II camera for $5,000 including free shipping. Hurry, it won't last. This is a very good deal. I bought this camera when it first came out and have taken it on many global photo tours.

Read my comprehensive review of this amazing DSLR. For those who are interested in comparing the EOS-1DX2 to the Nikon D5, read my earlier post. You can follow my travels on Facebook , Twitter , see my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com

You will not find a link to this item because I am not receiving any compensation from this company. I do not accept any ad or commissioned link on my blog or website. You can easily find the item by Googling it yourself. I am completely unbiased in my recommendation and have no conflict of interest. 

Canon EOS-1D X Mark II Camera - $5,172 Shipped

There is a top rated seller on eBay with a new Canon top-of-the-line EOS-1D X Mark II camera for $5,172 including free shipping. Hurry, it won't last. This is a very good deal. I bought this camera when it first came out and have taken it on many global photo tours.

Read my comprehensive review of this amazing DSLR. For those who are interested in comparing the EOS-1DX2 to the Nikon D5, read my earlier post. You can follow my travels on Facebook  and Twitter , see my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com

You will not find a link to this item because I am not receiving any compensation from any company. I do not accept any ad or commissioned link on my blog or website. You can easily find the item by Googling it yourself. I am completely unbiased in my recommendation and have no conflict of interest.

I will be going on another wildlife photography tour very soon. In September, I was in the high Arctic and this time I will be photographing Jaguars and other fauna down in the Pantanal, Brazil.

Canon Working on Faster Chips & Global Shutter Technology

Canon EOS-1D X Mark II full frame DSLR camera

My readers are familiar with my pick as the best camera for sports and wildlife photography on the market today. The Canon EOS-1D X Mark II full frame DSLR has the fastest burst rate (14 to 16 fps) of any camera. Now Canon engineers are working on further improving image quality at lower frame rates.

In addition, Canon has patented an RGBW 12 sensor array and busy working on different sensor designs, including curved image sensors. The article below is an excerpt from IEEE describing how Tohoku University and Canon Japan are working to improve IQ in their labs.


If you want to capture a super-slo-mo film of the nanosecond dynamics of a bullet impact, or see a football replay in fanatical detail and rich color, researchers are working on an image sensor for you. Last week at the IEEE International Electron Devices Meeting in San Francisco, two groups reported CMOS image sensors that rely on new ways of integrating pixels and memory cells to improve speed and image quality.  Click on the following Video 1 and Video 2  from Tohoku University to see the illustration.

Both groups are working on improving global-shutter image sensors. CMOS image sensors usually use what’s called a rolling shutter. Rolling shutter cameras scan across a scene—that is, each frame of the image only shows part of the scene. This makes them speedier but it can cause distortion, especially when filming a fast-moving target like a car or a bullet. Global shutters are better for filming speeding objects because they can snap the entire scene at once. CMOS sensors aren’t naturally suited to this, because the pixels are usually read out row by row. CCD image sensors, on the other hand, have a global shutter by definition, because all the pixels are read out at once, says Rihito Kuroda, an engineer at Tohoku University in Sendai, Japan. But they’re not ideal for high speed imaging, either. Due to their high voltage operation, CCDs heat up and use a lot of power when operating at high shutter speeds.

To get beyond the row-by-row, rolling shutter operation of CMOS, chip designers assign each pixel its own memory cell or cells. That provides a global shutter but with sacrifices. In the case of ultrahigh speed imaging, the sensors are constrained by their memory capacity, says Kuroda. By focusing on the design of a custom memory bank, Kuroda’s group has developed a CMOS image sensor that can take one million frames per second for a relatively long recording time—480 microseconds at full resolution—compared to previous ultrahigh speed image sensors.

Because storage is limited, it’s not possible to take a long, high speed, high resolution video—something must be sacrificed. Either the video has to be short, capturing only part of a high speed phenomenon in great detail, or it must have lower spatial or temporal  resolution. So Kuroda’s group focused on boosting storage in the hope of improving all three constraints.

Kuroda’s group made a partial test chip with 96 x 128-pixels. The image sensor is designed to be tiled to have a million or more pixels. Each pixel in the prototype has 480 memory cells dedicated to it. So the camera can take high resolution images for 480 frames. Other sensors have captured video at a higher frames per second rate but they’ve had to do it either for a shorter period of time or with poorer spatial resolution.

The Tohoku group designed a dense analog memory bank based on vertical capacitors built inside deep trenches in the silicon chip. Because the capacitors hold a variable amount of charge, rather than a simple 0 or 1 as in DRAM, lowering the amount of current that leaks out is critical, says Kuroda. The deeper the trenches, they found, the greater the volume of each capacitor and the lower the leakage current. Increasing volume with trenches rather than by spreading out over the chip saved space and allowed for greater density of memory cells. This meant more memory cells per pixel, which allowed for longer recordings. It also freed up space to put more pixels on the chip, improving the camera’s resolution.

Some of Kuroda’s earlier CMOS image sensor chips, which used planar rather than trenched capacitors, are already on the market in ultrahigh speed cameras (HPV X and X2 models) made by Shimadzu. He says the new million frame per second sensor will further improve products like them. To push things even further, Kuroda says the next step is to stack the pixel layer on top of the memory layer. This will bring each pixel closer to its memory cells, shortening the time it takes to record each frame and potentially speeding up the sensor even more.

This sort of camera is useful for engineers who need to follow the fine details of how materials fail—for example how a carbon fiber splits—in order to make them more resilient. Physicists can use them too, for example, to study the dynamics of plasma formation.

Separately, researchers from Canon’s device technology development headquarters in Kanagawa, Japan, reported memory-related improvements for high-definition image sensors that could be used to cover sporting events or in surveillance drones. While the Tohoku group is working on ultrahigh speed, the Canon group aims to improve the image quality of high-definition global shutter cameras operating at much lower frame rates of about 30 to 120 per second.

The Canon photo below shows a picture of a stuffed white lama beside a globe, fruit, and some flowers shows the added detail from Canon's latest experimental CMOS image chip.Canon improved dynamic range by storing charge (called accumulation) four times from each frame [right] instead of once [left]. 

Canon improved dynamic range by storing charge (called accumulation) four times from each frame [left] instead of once [right]. The result was a higher dynamic range.

Like the Tohoku University chip, the Canon sensor closely integrates analog memory with sensors. In the Canon chip, each pixel in the 4046 by 2496 array has its own built in charge-based memory cell. They’ve used an engineering trick to improve the image quality by effectively increasing the exposure time within each frame. Typically, the image sensor dumps its bucket of electrons into the memory cell once per frame. This transfer is called an accumulation. The Canon pixels can do as many as four accumulations per frame, emptying their charges into the associated memory cell four times. This improves the saturation and dynamic range of the images relative to previous global shutter CMOS devices operating around the same frame rates. At 30 frames per second, the sensor maintains a dynamic range of 92 dB.

Canon EOS-1D C Camera - $3,899 with Free Shipping

Canon Cinema EOS-1D C full frame camera 

My readers are aware that I have picked the Canon EOS-1D X as the best full frame professional camera for sports and wildlife photography four years in a row. Since earlier this year, I have moved on to the EOS-1D X Mark II but the original Series I body is still a very good camera.

For those devoted photographers and cinematographers who are determined to get a fine EOS-1D body with many advanced features and save a little money, you can consider the EOS-1D C, Canon's hybrid DSLR with 4K motion imaging and full HD 1080p recording at 60 fps on CF cards. It also shoots up to 14 fps as a still camera and comes in a rugged, magnesium alloy body. It uses the EF-mount lenses and opens up new still and cinematic opportunities for photographers and videographers.

There is a highly-rated company selling the Canon EOS-1D C camera for $3,999 with free expedited shipping. The regular price is $7,999. If you are interested in buying one, don't delay too much longer.

You will not find a link to this item because I do not accept any advertisement or commissioned link on my Blog or website and do not solicit your email address for future spamming. I am completely unbiased in my reporting, have no conflict of interest and do not endorse any particular company. Find this listing on Google yourself easily.  You can see my equipment bag, upcoming wildlife photo tours and works on MichaelDanielHo.com

Canon EOS-1D X Full Frame DSLR Camera - $3,899

Canon EOS-1D X full frame DSLR camera

* * *  New Canon EOS-1D C camera for $3,899  * * *

My readers are aware that I have picked the Canon EOS-1D X as the best full frame professional camera for sports and wildlife photography four years in a row. Since earlier this year, I have moved on to the EOS-1D X Mark II but the original Series I body is still a very good camera.

For those who are determined to get a fine EOS-1D body with many advanced features and save a little money, you can consider a factory refurbished EOS-1D X. Before you recoil at the ideal of buying 'reconditioned' equipment, read my previous article on this subject first and decide later. Read my complete review of the camera after numerous global wildlife photo shoots with it from the high Arctic to the Southern Ocean and many places in between.

There is a highly-rated company selling the Canon EOS-1D X camera for $3,899. The regular price is $4,239. If you are interested in buying one, don't delay too much longer.

You will not find a link to this item because I do not accept any advertisement or commissioned link on my Blog or website and do not solicit your email address for future spamming. I am completely unbiased in my reporting, have no conflict of interest and do not endorse any particular company. Find this listing on Google yourself easily.  You can see my equipment bag, upcoming wildlife photo tours and works on MichaelDanielHo.com

Canon EOS-1D X Mark II Camera User Guidebook

Canon EOS-1D X Mark II with EF 35mm f/1.4L II USM lens

The EOS-1D X Mark II camera was announced in February 2016. My readers know I have picked the EOS-1D X as the best full frame camera for sports and wildlife photography four years in a row. I have owned the Mark II model for about seven months now and have taken it on photo shoots from the high Arctic to Southern Africa and many places in between.

The new camera has won many great reviews, including yours truly and now Canon has produced a handy downloadable AF Setting Guidebook for smartphone and tablets :

The 148-page guidebook explains in detail the technical elements of the AF system and highlights other key functionalities that photographers need to know and understand in order to get the very best from Canon’s pro-series flagship, such as Movie Servo AF, using Auto ISO and much more.

In the guidebook are detailed overviews and explanations of the new AF algorithm and AI Servo AF III+ along with a list of the AF Configuration Tool and Presets, with comprehensive explanations on how each Case Setting works and when to choose them.

The guidebook is divided into six parts, consisting of two chapters on the AF Configuration Tool (Presets and Parameters), as well as chapters on AF area selection modes, 61-point reticular AF cross-type points, release property settings and anti-flicker shooting plus utilising the AF and Movie Servo AF and other useful functions.

EOS-1D X AF Setting Guidebook : Smartphone & Tablet version

It’s a fascinating read for anyone wanting to get under the skin of their EOS-1D X Mark II and will appeal to professionals who want a handy guide which can be stored on phone or tablet. Included in the book is a lens guide which lists every major EF lens and the number and placement of cross-type points that can be used with them.

There are many useful shortcuts explained in the guide, such as using the M-Fn button to assign shooting functions and various other customisable options. As you read through the guide, it becomes very clear that this camera can be set up precisely as you need it.

To download the new Canon EOS-1D X Mark II AF Setting Guidebook for smartphones and tablets just click here.

Canon Miniature Satellite Will Use EOS-5D as Main Camera

Canon EOS-5D Mark IV full frame camera

Canon announced the EOS-5D Mark IV camera in August, 2016. It is planning to announce the EOS-5Ds Mark II some time next year. The EOS-5D camera line is on its 11th year and going strong. I bought the first EOS-5D when it was launched in 2005 and use the EOS-1D X Mark II and EOS-5Ds as my main cameras on wildlife photography shoots. You can see my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com

The Nikkei Asian Review reports Canon is planning to get into the Space Satellite Imaging business. Below is an excerpt from their article.


TOKYO -- Canon will put a miniature satellite under development in orbit in March on a trial mission, as the Japanese company seeks liftoff for a business that could generate tens of billions of yen annually.

Satellites are employed in fields such as communications, broadcasting and weather. But smaller versions are being developed for expanded commercial applications. Images produced from those miniature satellites can be used for agriculture, disaster prevention and container tracking at ports. Such images also can help determine the best places to build parking lots, among other market research uses.

U.S.-based SpaceWorks Enterprises estimates that up to 3,000 satellites weighing 50kg or less will be launched within a seven-year span beginning in 2016.

Canon Electronics, a subsidiary that makes precision components for cameras and printers, will handle the project. The unit developed the first demonstration prototype, which will be sent into orbit by the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle, a rocket supplied by the Indian Space Research Organization. The two sides inked a deal after agreeing to the orbital path, the time frame and other conditions for the launch. The satellite will take off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in southeast India.

Canon will operate the satellite for two years, validating the photographic precision and making calibrations as needed. The company will hunt for orders during that time. Canon looks to sell and operate the satellites in package deals, as well as provide images for clients that request it. The company aims to reap sales of about 50 billion yen ($482 million) by around 2020, and 100 billion yen in 2030.

The miniature satellite will come equipped with Canon's optical and precision technology burnished through the digital camera business. Production costs will fall under 1 billion yen -- a fraction of what is typically required for larger satellites. Canon's satellite weighs 65kg and measures 85cm by 50cm by 50cm. A telescope affixed to an imaging device based on Canon's EOS 5D camera will be installed.

The satellite will orbit at an altitude of roughly 500km, circling the Earth about 15 times daily. Images can achieve roughly 1 meter resolution, highly detailed for a miniature satellite. The satellite is to be capable of determining the sizes and numbers of objects such as vehicles, buildings and farms. It also could be used to collect data on landslides, earthquakes and other natural disasters.

Canon also intends to launch a business in producing precision instruments for use in space. Some of the corresponding equipment in the first miniature satellite prototype was procured from other places. But the company plans to fabricate all the precision instruments for the second prototype, due to launch in three years.  

Canon EOS-5Ds Mark II Camera Coming in 2017?

Canon announced its long awaited EOS-5D Mark IV camera in August. The EOS-5Ds and EOS-5Ds R were announced back in February, 2015. Frankly, I find it unnecessary to have two different models of this camera. Originally, I was not going to buy this body because I shoot primarily wildlife photography and the slow burst rate (5 fps) deterred me. 

My main body is the EOS-1D X Mark II but finally, I relented and bought the EOS-5Ds to replace my EOS-1Ds Mark III and have been quite happy since. You can see my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com

Word is the EOS-5Ds Mark II may arrive some time late 2017 or early 2018. It will probably just come in one model, with a new sensor and practically identical ergonomics with the present models but with a slight weight reduction. This will represent a shorter replacement cycle for Canon but the competition for high end, full frame camera is heating up, especially coming from Sony and Canon has to respond. Keep checking back for more information and latest development. 

DxOMark Rates Canon EOS-5D Mark IV Camera Sensor

Canon EOS-5D Mark IV full frame DSLR camera

I have just returned from my Southern Africa wildlife photo shoot testing the Canon EOS-1D X Mark II camera. You can follow my travels on Twitter and Facebook. Beginning to get back to my daily routine, processing the photos and keeping my readers up to date on the latest photography news.

The recently announced EOS-5D Mark IV was tested by DxOMark and they gave it a very high mark. For those who are into engineering and lab specs, below is the comparison with other Canon models. I am more interested in real world performance and will not be buying this camera since it is essentially a little brother to the EOS-1D X Mark II plus I already own the EOS-5Ds. Below is an excerpt from the DxOMark review.

Canon’s iconic EOS 5D series of full-frame DSLRs have had wide appeal with both pro and enthusiast photographers, blending great image quality and good features in a more affordable mid-range body design. Boasting a significant number of upgrades over its predecessor, including increased resolution, an updated autofocus system, Dual Pixel RAW capture, improved metering and 4K-video capture, the latest Mark IV looks like a mouth-watering prospect for the still photographer.

Full Frame Dual Sensor, great features

Built around a new 30.4Mp full-frame CMOS sensor, capturing 6720 x 4480 pixel stills in 3:2 aspect ratio, the 5D Mark IV offers a notable increase in resolution over the 22.3Mp 5D Mark III. For many Canon enthusiasts frustrated with the more modest resolution increase between the 5D Mark II and III versions, this will be a very welcome bump in resolution that brings the 5D Mark IV more in line with some of the recent high-resolution Sony and Nikon competition.  

The autofocus system from Canon’s flagship EOS 1D X Mark II has filtered down to the 5D Mark IV, which now offers greater focus coverage, with more of its 61 targets located at the top and bottom of the frame. Forty-one of these targets are the more accurate cross-type variety, including 5 dual cross-type targets at f/2.8 and 21 cross-type targets at f/8. This promises snappy AF with all Canon EF lenses and teleconverters, although the number of cross-type and dual cross-type targets will vary depending on the lens used. That’s not the only focusing trick Canon has pulled out with the 5D Mark IV either, which also features a Dual Pixel RAW mode that allows photographers to fine-tune the focus in post-production. By recording two 30.4Mp RAW files, photographers can apply fine focusing tweaks including “image micro adjustment,” “bokeh shift,” and “ghosting reduction” using Canon’s own Digital Photo Professional software, which is supplied with the camera.

The 252-zone / 150,000-pixel RGB+IR metering system is also from the EOS 1D X Mark II and is another notable upgrade compared to the 63-zone system in the 5D Mark III. The frame rate has increased, too, now up to 7fps with AE and AF tracking, and the 5D Mark IV will record JPEGs until the storage is full, or 21 RAW files in a continuous burst. In Live View mode, the frame rate is a little slower at 4.3fps, but the 5D Mark IV now offers full continuous autofocus tracking during burst shooting in Live View. The 3.2-inch LCD screen has been upgraded to a higher-resolution 1.6m-dot version with convenient touchscreen control. The LCD screen remains a fixed unit, however, and so doesn’t offer the pop-out or articulating controls often sought after for shooting video and for composing stills at awkward angles, or in bright light.

For video, the 5D Mark IV records 4K at 24/30fps, Full HD up to 60fps or standard HD at 100/120fps, which will allow quarter-speed slow-motion movies. While higher-resolution video capture is certainly a welcome addition, the 5D Mark IV records 4K in a 1.64x “crop mode,” which means it uses only part of the sensor and affects the focal length of the lens – something photographers looking to switch quickly between film and stills capture may find frustrating.
With feedback from Canon photographers requesting improved dynamic range, as well as some encouraging DxOMark scores from the recent EOS 80D and 1D X Mark II sensors, we were excited to see how the new Canon EOS 5D Mark IV would fare in the lab. Read on as we round up the analyzed and verified scores in our full review.

Key features & specifications

• 30.4Mp CMOS sensor
• Digic 6+ processor
• ISO 100 – 32,000 (expandable to 102,400)
• 7fps burst shooting
• 3.2-inch 1.6m-dot touchscreen LCD
• 61point AF system (41 cross-type sensors)
• Dual Pixel RAW mode
• WiFi / NFC / GPS connectivity
• 4K video @ 24/30fps (Motion JPEG)
• $3500 (body only)

Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS II Lens Photo & Specs Leaked

Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS II USM lens

I am still on my Southern Africa on a wildlife photo tour. So far it has been a rather good trip. Put the EOS-1D X Mark II camera through a series of real world tests and it passed with flying colors. Just a quick note to let my readers know Canon will be announcing a replacement to its non 'L' EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS lens with the Series II some time this or next week. This is after the announcement of the EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II and EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III a few weeks ago.

Major specs of EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS II lens :

• Lens construction : 12 group 17 sheets (one UD lens)
• Number of blades : 9 sheets (circular aperture)
• Minimum focusing distance : 1.2m
• Maximum magnification : 0.25X (300mm), 0.07X (70mm)
• 4 stops Image Stabilization
• Filter diameter : 67mm
• The maximum diameter × length: 80mm × 145.5mm
• Weight : 710 g
• Lens hood : ET-74B
• Nano USM
• Full-time manual focus

I expect the price of the lens to be slightly higher than the current model but comes with much better technology and optics, including a small LCD display window. The EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6L IS and EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II are two of my favorite 'L' lens. I am waiting delivery of the new 24-105mm lens. You can see my equipment bag, works on MichaelDanielHo.com and follow my travels on Facebook and Twitter.

Canon EOS-1D X Mark II Camera Firmware V 1.1.2 Available

Canon EOS-1D X Mark II camera

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.

As reported earlier, Canon has released a new firmware, Version 1.1.2 You can download it here on Canon's website.

Firmware Version 1.1.2 incorporates the following improvements :

• The addition of a selectable color-tone option for the LCD monitor.
• The addition of a function to append IPTC data.
• The addition of a function to transfer only protected images.
• The addition of a function to set the GPS positional data retention period.
• An increase in the number of network connection settings that can be saved to a memory card from 20 to 40.
• When retrying FTP transfer, extension of the minimum auto power off time to 10 minutes.
• Improvement of wireless transmission when using Wireless File Transmitter WFT-E6.

Wildlife Photography - Photo Safari Tour in Southern Africa, Day 9

I am still on my Southern Africa Photo Safari Tour. Left Botswana after a very nice tour and now I am in South Africa. So far the wildlife sightings are very good and the Canon EOS-1D X Mark II camera is performing like a charm.

A couple of things I like to share with my readers. Looks like Canon has finally decided to sell its CMOS camera sensors to other camera manufacturers. Sony has been doing that for years and provide sensors to Nikon for all their DSLR cameras. Also, the Canon EOS-M5 mirrorless camera with the APS-C sensor will be announced next week. This will be Canon's most advanced mirrorless camera and the features and ergonomics will be far superior to the current models. Is this what the camera looks like? Check out the link above.

A few quick photos of my tour so far. Very little time and energy to do any proper viewing and processing. I only brought along a small netbook computer. You can follow my travels on Twitter and Facebook and see more of my works on MichaelDanielHo.com.

Sunrise on the Chobe River 

Two month old Giraffe calf

Elephant crossing the Chobe River at sunset 

Two young Cheetahs descending from a termite mound

Critically endangered Black Rhino mom and adult male offspring

Young Bull Elephant trumpeting an aggressive behavior 

Plains Zebra getting a drink from a waterhole

Canon Cameras and Lens Dominate 2016 Olympic Events

Canon EOS-1D X Mark II with EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II lens

I am off on a wildlife photo shoot in Southern Africa with the EOS-1D X Mark II camera. You can follow my travels on Twitter and Facebook.


MELVILLE, N.Y., August 29, 2016 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, announced today that from August 6 to August 20, nearly 70 percent* of professional photographers on assignment in Brazil were Canon shooters. In addition, Canon brought a team of more than 70 highly trained technicians and support staff to Brazil this month to help maximize the uptime and performance of its professional broadcast and EOS imaging equipment users. Canon HDTV field lenses were ready on the evening of August 5 bringing viewers worldwide approximately 80 percent and nationwide 100 percent of the images they saw on TV.

“It is humbling to know that such a large number of the world’s most talented sports photographers relied on Canon equipment to capture this historic sporting event. Their iconic images from so many different events have been and will be seen by millions of people around the world for years to come. To support the needs of our customers and help them accomplish their goals, Canon Professional Services is always set up and ready at major sporting events throughout the year to assist by providing comprehensive equipment maintenance and repairs, extensive equipment loans and expert technical support,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, president and COO, Canon U.S.A., Inc.

During the events, a photographer that had equipment stolen was quickly assisted by CPS staff so he could get back on assignment. According to Brett Costello, News Corp. Australia photographer, “The CPS team in Brazil was amazing. I was very upset at having my gear stolen on August 4 at a café and thought my ability to cover the coming events were over. When I told the Canon staff there what had happened to me, they didn’t hesitate in helping with the loan gear I required. Thanks to Canon I put the event behind me and was able to complete my assignments.”

The CPS team also :

• Averaged a 12 hour turnaround time for products needing repair
• Loaned 8,163 products with the EOS-1D X Mark II DSLR camera and EF 200-400MM F/4L IS USM Extender 1.4X being the most requested product loans
• Had in stock 950 cameras and 1,500 lenses
• Communicated with photographers in 12 languages

Canon Professional Services proudly attends to photographers at major sporting, auto racing, Hollywood, and political events throughout each year.

For more information about CPS: http://www.cps.usa.canon.com/

For more information about the EOS-1D X Mark II DSLR camera : http://usa.canon.com/EOS1DXMarkII

Canon EOS-1D X Mark II Camera Firmware 1.1 Coming Soon

Canon EOS-1D X Mark II top-of-the-line full frame DSLR camera

* * *  On a wildlife photo tour with the Canon EOS-1D X Mark II  * * *

My readers know I have picked the Canon EOS-1D X as the best DSLR camera for sports and wildlife photography four years in a row. The EOS-1D X Mark II has been out for a few months now. I have tested this camera on a few global wildlife photo shoots, from the Amazon to the high Arctic, Alaska to Canada. You can read my comprehensive review, see my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com

Canon is very responsive to its professional users. From the feedback of sports, wildlife photographers and news photojournalists, they will be coming out with a significant firmware upgrade for the EOS-1D X Mark II camera soon.  Firmware Version 1.1 clearly has professional photographers, photojournalists and serious users in mind.

The following excerpt from Canon Digital Learning Center tells us the upcoming new features and functions of Firmware Version 1.1


In a nutshell : what’s new and different?

This new upgrade (version 1.1) addresses specific issues that professional news and photojournalism organizations have brought to Canon’s attention — we understand that not all of these will be important in more ordinary, everyday use to individual photographers. That said, the changes and new features this firmware adds to the EOS-1D X Mark II camera are the ability to :

• Install up to 39 items of IPTC information into the camera, and to add data (or deliberately not apply it) to images you take
• Add set-up information for up to 40 new Wi-Fi® networks to a memory card, and load that data as a full set of possible Wi-Fi networks to select from for connection
• Transfer only “protected” images via Wi-Fi
• Retain GPS position data:  Continue to apply last known GPS location information to images subsequently taken, even if GPS connection is lost (photographer went inside a building, etc.)
• Change LCD color tone (four pre-defined settings), to either approximate display from other cameras you’re working with, or to shift color tone based on ambient lighting as the LCD monitor is being used

The aim of these changes is to enhance a professional photographer’s workflow; improve on-location network and Wi-Fi operations (especially for photographers working at large events, with many Wi-Fi networks in simultaneous operation); and to smooth the process of transferring images and managing them with new embedded metadata.  We’ll take a brief look at each, to shed some light on what changes and potential applications have been implemented.

Keep in mind that the EOS-1D X Mark II differs from other Canon EOS models in that it not only permits network communication and transfer of images via Wi-Fi (using the optional WFT-E8A or WFT-E6A wireless file transmitters), but also via wired ethernet connection — there’s a dedicated ethernet port on the camera for this purpose.  This allows similar network connectivity, but without some of the variables users can encounter on-location with Wi-Fi transmission.  Firmware v. 1.1 doesn’t change this; we only want to remind users of it here.

Add IPTC Metadata

Initial versions of the EOS-1D X Mark II camera did not have this feature, often very useful to workflows in professional organizations.  IPTC (International Press Telecommunications Council) data has been used with digital photos in the news photojournalism field for many years.  It consists of text data which is pre-defined, and can apply additional, searchable information that can accompany an image file after it’s been downloaded to an organization’s storage and archiving system.  This can include captioning information and so on, so it’s potentially more expansive than simple keywording — although it can be used for that as well.

With Firmware v. 1.1 installed, the EOS-1D X Mark II will now be able to add up to 39 IPTC items of information, separately and in addition to the normal EXIF shooting information the camera normally applies for each image that’s taken.  Parenthetically, the EOS 5D Mark IV camera will have the same capability upon its release, with no firmware upgrade required.

IPTC information is pre-defined by the photographer, entered into a compatible version of Canon’s EOS Utility software, and then installed (uploaded) into the camera via USB 3.0 connection from a compatible Windows® or Macintosh® computer.  Once installed in-camera, a new menu setting allows the photographer to add this IPTC data to each shot he or she takes afterward, or to disable it and have no IPTC info added.  A few additional points about the IPTC data with the EOS-1D X Mark II :

• IPTC data cannot be viewed or edited in-camera…once installed, to change it you must re-connect the camera to a compatible Mac or Windows computer with Canon’s EOS Utility software installed, and use EOS Utility to edit or change the IPTC information.
• Once a set of IPTC data is entered, the same data is applied to each image.  Unlike the camera’s normal shooting data, the IPTC data does not change to reflect different camera settings and so on.
• You can turn IPTC data on or off in-camera, using the Menu selection to enable or disable it.  Disabling it does not remove it altogether from the camera…it simply means it won’t be attached to image files until you turn it back on.
• During image playback, you can see whether IPTC data is attached to an image, but you cannot see the actual IPTC data.  Regular EXIF shooting data (date/time, shutter speed, aperture, ISO, and so on) is completely unaffected.
• To completely remove IPTC data from the camera (for example, if you were loaning a camera to another photographer, and didn’t want to risk that he or she would accidentally have your IPTC data added to their pictures), you must re-connect to a computer, and delete it via EOS Utility.
• Only one set of IPTC data can be registered and uploaded into the camera at a time.

Even though IPTC metadata is targeted at larger photo organizations, it has potential applications for individual photographers.  Especially interesting is that some third-party software programs, such as Adobe® Lightroom®, have the ability to read attached IPTC metadata.  Numerous possible tags and information could be used for searching, editing purposes, and so on.  It’s beyond the scope of this article for Canon staff to explain how various third-party software can use IPTC data, but there’s no doubt that intriguing options are out there for interested photographers working with the EOS-1D X Mark II, once firmware has been upgraded to version 1.1, as well as for customers buying a new EOS 5D Mark IV camera.

Another real-world application for IPTC metadata for individual users might be to add precise copyright info to each image taken with the EOS-1D X Mark II camera.  The IPTC input allows extended information, including the actual copyright symbol, to be part of the data that can accompany image files after they’re taken.

Similarly, the IPTC data could allow users to include not only their name, but contact information such as their personal or business web address (URL), which could have possible benefits not only for added copyright protection, but even encourage possible image sales to other viewers.

Increase number of network connection set-ups on memory card
With an eye toward high-end professional organizations at large sporting and news events, Firmware v. 1.1 for the EOS-1D X Mark II will now allow users to save set-up information for up to 40 different Wi-Fi set-ups, and store them on a memory card for future access.

The EOS-1D X Mark II has always allowed users to create and save (register) set-up information for up to 20 different network connections, in the camera.  The idea, of course, is to allow a photographer to quickly access and begin working with a pre-established wireless (or wired, ethernet LAN) network — as is often required by press photographers upon arrival at major venues and events.

And, users could store connection information (IP addresses, passwords, etc.) for 20 additional sites on a memory card, and access them independently.

What’s new with Firmware v. 1.1 is that the EOS-1D X Mark II expands the number of network connections that can be saved and then accessed on a memory card.  Up to 40 separate networks can now be saved to a relatively low-capacity memory card, carried with the photographer in his/her camera bag, and quickly accessed as a full set of 20 networks any time he or she needs to work with them.  This could allow a user to store personal network information (home, office, and so on) in-camera, and allow his or her organization to supply updated network information ahead of time, copied to a CF (or CFast) card, for use at an upcoming major event.

Either a CF or CFast 2.0 memory card can be used to save this information…as a practical matter, it probably makes sense for most users to use a lower-capacity, inexpensive CF card for this purpose, and rely on newer, faster and higher-capacity cards for actual image storage.

Transfer only protected images to a network
Many EOS camera models have had a “protect” feature, which allows users to mark or tag images and prevent accidental erasure during playback.

EOS-1D X Mark II cameras with Firmware v. 1.1 installed now offer a new means of selecting images for transfer to a network — select protected images for transfer.  Pressing the little back button with a key icon will apply a “protect” tag to individual image files, one at a time, as they’re being reviewed during playback.  Once desired files are marked with the “protect” icon, EOS-1D X Mark II cameras that have been updated to Firmware v. 1.1 can now select all protected images via a new menu selection, and have them transferred in one batch.

This is a quick means of editing in-camera, and getting images ready to send to a wireless or wired network via FTP transfer.  It can also function via USB connection, directly to a compatible Mac or Windows computer, for FTP transfer of image files.

Extended time for automatic re-transfer of images that failed to transfer initially
With Firmware v. 1.1 installed, EOS-1D X Mark II cameras will now continue to attempt to re-connect and transfer images for longer periods of time, if and when there’s an interruption in network connections.  Previously, unless the camera’s Auto Power Off had been pre-set to 15 minutes or longer, the camera would stop trying to re-transfer after about 6 minutes.

Now, with Firmware 1.1, it will continue to attempt to re-transfer for 10 minutes, even when Auto Power Off is set to a shorter time frame.  At Auto Power Off settings of 15 minutes, 30 minutes, and Disable (camera doesn’t go to sleep after inactivity), automatic re-transferring of images which failed to transfer will continue for the same duration as the Auto Power Off setting.

The benefit? One less thing for busy, working press photographers to concern themselves with, when transferring files while on-location.  Network interruptions, especially with Wi-Fi, are sadly a common occurrence at major events.  If they occur while a shooter is attempting to meet a deadline and transfer images, he or she can take a bit of comfort knowing that the process will continue for longer periods, once re-connected with a network.

GPS data retained, even if connection interrupted

Especially now that GPS is built into the EOS-1D X Mark II body, it’s a feature that working pros and even advanced enthusiasts may call upon frequently.  Until now, to put GPS location information onto images being taken, an active connection to GPS satellite data was required.  Unfortunately, GPS communication can be interrupted by environmental situations — primarily stepping indoors, after starting GPS up while outside.

In the past, if and when GPS was interrupted, the camera would stop putting any GPS location information with the shooting data for each image taken.  Now, Firmware v. 1.1 for the EOS-1D X Mark II changes this, and allows the last known GPS coordinates to continue to be added, even if actual GPS communication has failed.

The benefit is a shooter working at (for example) an indoor sports arena or a domed stadium can now set up his or her GPS outdoors, before entering the building.  Once indoors, they can shoot an entire event, and each image will contain the last known GPS coordinates as location data.  True, it won’t be completely precise if the photographer moves around a very large area, but at least he or she now has some record of approximate location, which can stay with their images.

And, there’s a new Menu setting, giving the shooter a choice of how long to retain previous GPS position information.

If/when GPS communication resumes, the system will begin to add that new location information to new images, as they’re taken.

LCD monitor Color Tone

Firmware v. 1.1 for the EOS-1D X Mark II adds another requested feature — the ability to make subtle changes to the LCD monitor’s color tone. Four pre-set choices allow the photographer to use the factory-default setting, warm the display’s color rendition slightly, or cool it slightly (add a bit of a bluish tint), in two stages.

Two potential applications: one would be to allow users working with EOS-1D X Mark II cameras along with other Canon EOS bodies to more closely match the “look” of playback images and video on other EOS cameras.  (Keep in mind that as of late August 2016, the only other EOS model with adjustable color tone for the LCD monitor is the new EOS 5D Mark IV camera.)

In general, to match the display of cameras like the previous EOS-1D X or EOS 5D Mark III, you may want to try the Cool Tone 1 or Cool Tone 2 settings.

And the other might be to accommodate slight viewing changes to the LCD monitor, from differing ambient light conditions.

While it probably goes without saying, we’ll reinforce it here — this adjustment to the LCD monitor’s color tone has nothing to do with the White Balance or other settings of actual image and video files, and does not in any way change any files in-camera. It simply adjusts the look of the monitor screen they’re being viewed on.

Summary

Canon’s most professional digital SLR gets a user-installable firmware upgrade that’s clearly aimed right at high-end, institutional users — especially those in sports and news journalism fields. Individual professionals working in other areas, and our high-end enthusiast customers, can be forgiven if they feel that most of the new features and capabilities added are not directly targeted at them and the types of work they do.

But even for the individual EOS-1D X Mark II owner, there are some features that they may want to leverage. In particular the ability to add IPTC data, and then use that with third-party software for in-depth captioning and keywording, may be a valuable feature.

The firmware is a free upgrade, and adds features and functionality to the EOS-1D X Mark II camera. We certainly recommend that anyone remotely involved in the photojournalism market add this firmware to his or her cameras, and it may prove beneficial even to users who work in different markets, and in different circumstances.

One last point : this firmware applies only to the EOS-1D X Mark II camera. It cannot be installed in previous versions of the EOS-1D or EOS-1Ds, nor can it add these features to other models (EOS 5D series, EOS 7D series, etc.).

Canon EOS-1D X Mark II Camera - $5,499

Canon EOS-1D X Mark II full frame DSLR camera

There is a highly-rated merchant on eBay selling the Canon EOS-1D X Mark II camera for $5,499 including free shipping. The list price is $5,999. As The Wildlife Ho-tographer, my readers know I have picked its predecessor, the EOS-1D X as the best, full frame DSLR for wildlife photography four years in a row. This new camera is taking over that title for me very soon.

I have taken this camera on a few global wildlife photo shoots, from the Amazon to the high Arctic, Alaska to Canada. You can read my comprehensive review of the camera, see my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com

You will not find a link to this merchant because I do not accept any advertisement, commissioned link and tracking cookies on my Blog or website. I am completely unbiased in my recommendation and have no conflict of interest. You can find the listing easily by Googling it yourself. 

Canon EOS-1D X Mark II and EOS-80D Cameras Win EISA Awards

Canon has been awarded four honors from EISA for 2016. My readers know I have picked the Canon EOS-1D X as the best camera for sports and wildlife photography four years in a row. The Mark II model is proving to be a worthy successor to the original camera and you can read my real world review here, see my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com

United Kingdom, 15 August 2016 – Canon today announces it has been honoured with four product awards from the European Imaging and Sound Association (EISA). The EOS 80D has been named the ‘European DSLR Camera 2016-2017’, while the EOS-1D X Mark II took the title of ‘European Professional DSLR Camera 2016-2017’ and the EF 35mm f/1.4L II USM and the imagePROGRAF PRO-1000 received awards for ‘European Professional DSLR Lens 2016-2017’ and ‘European Photo Printer 2016-2017’ respectively. With recognition for products that span both capture and print, the wins in 2016 reflect the outstanding, market-leading quality of Canon products across the imaging eco-system.

Voted for by panels of editors representing nearly 50 prominent magazines from across 20 European countries, the EISA Awards celebrate products which combine the most advanced technology, distinctive design and desirable features, with genuine value for end users. Each of the winning products has been enthusiastically received since launch, and the EISA award recognition is further testament to their outstanding quality and performance.

“At Canon, we understand photography doesn’t end with the press of a shutter, and are consistently striving to produce high-quality products that help novices and professionals alike to get the best from their photographs,” said Steve Marshall, Product Marketing Director, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon Europe. “Be it capture, print, store or share, every element matters, and we’re committed to ensuring Canon quality comes through at every step. Each of the awards we’ve received demonstrate our dedication and commitment to creating pioneering products and once again we’re extremely proud to have been recognised by the esteemed EISA panel.”

The Canon EOS-80D is more than just another SLR. Canon has brought a camera to the market that incorporates many innovative functions for photo and video. The key feature is Canon’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF which enables fast focussing during live view and video, which is also supported by the new Power Zoom Adapter PZ-E1 which works together with the new EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM kit lens. The AF is also greatly improved and now sports 45 cross-type sensors, while the high resolution vari-angle LCD allows touchscreen operation. Last but not least, the EOS 80D has class leading image quality.

The Canon EOS-1D X Mark II is the fastest DSLR ever, making it the best tool for the professional sports photographer. It can take 14 images per second of moving subjects, an impressive achievement that’s particularly useful for action photography. Compared to the previous model Canon has increased the still image quality significantly, and improved the autofocus particularly when using lenses with extenders. The video function is also much more advanced with high quality 4K recording and fast autofocus in live view mode. All the improvements together with the rugged body make the Canon EOS-1D X Mark II an even better all-round camera than its predecessor.

The Canon EF 35mm f/1.4L II USM gives exciting performance: it is the best 35mm lens on the market. Image sharpness is unbelievably high, both at the centre and at the edges, even at f/1.4. Canon uses key technologies as Subwavelength Structure Coating (SWC) to increase light transmission, reducing both flare and ghost images. In addition a Blue Spectrum Refractive (BR) lens, made of organic material, enables very efficient correction of axial chromatic aberration that’s impossible to correct by software. The 9-bladed aperture diaphragm creates very attractive bokeh and a seal on the mount protects the camera from dust and moisture.

Canon’s imagePROGRAF PRO-1000 is a dedicated A2 photo printer that uses pigment inks for the best possible print quality, including great light fastness [the resistance to colours fading] and print longevity. With a maximum print resolution of 2400x1200dpi, it uses 12 ink cartridges including separate matte black and photo black to prevent wastage of ink, money and time. It supports printing from a wide range of devices, with connection options including Hi Speed USB 2.0, Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Pictbridge and Ethernet. The Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1000’s external design is reminiscent of Canon lenses.

Top Ten Camera and Lens on Loan by Canon Professional Services at Olympics 2016

Last week, I reported Canon Professional Services was gearing up to support pro sports photographers at the 2016 Summer Olympics. Now Canon has released a list of the most requested camera and lens equipment they are loaning out at the Games. I have used and own many of the gear on the list and have taken them on worldwide wildlife photo shoots. You can read my reviews on them below.

My readers know I am The Wildlife Ho-tographer. Through the decades, I have used almost all of Canon film and digital cameras plus their entire line of EF lens. You can read my camera and lens recommendation, view my equipment bag and see my works on MichaelDanielHo.com


Most requested camera and lens from sports photographers :

• EOS-1D X Mark II - Loaned 285 Times
• EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM Extender 1.4X - Loaned 231 Times
• EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM - Loaned 211 Times
• EF 400mm f/2.8L IS II USM - Loaned 131 Times
• EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM - Loaned 130 Times
• EF 600mm f/4L IS II USM - Loaned 126 Times
• EOS-1D X - Loaned 123 Times
• EF 8-15mm f/4L Fisheye USM - Loaned 105 Times
• EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM - Loaned 84 Times
• EOS-1D X Mark II VIP and EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM - Both Loaned 77 Times

Canon EOS-1D X Mark II Camera Tips and Tricks

Canon EOS-1D X Mark II full frame camera

* * *  New Firmware Version 1.1 coming for this camera  * * *

My readers know I have picked the Canon EOS-1D X as the best DSLR in sports and wildlife photography four years in a row. With the introduction of the Mark II model, it is living up to its venerable predecessor's reputation. In the past few months, I have taken the EOS-1D X Mark II on global photo shoots, from the steamy jungles of the Amazon to the freezing temps of the high Arctic, plus Alaska and Canada.

The camera is simply a joy to use and an excellent performer. You can read my review and keep checking back for added comments since I will be taking the body out for further testing and analysis. Below are a few tips from Canon on how to get the most out of the new camera.

Live View Exposure simulation

When shooting in Live View with the EOS-1D X Mark II, it offers menu options to determine how the Live View image is displayed. Within the Exposure Simulation options, the second option (denoted by the Depth of Field preview button) may prove useful when shooting in low light conditions. In this setting the display will be artificially adjusted to be easier to view, to help with exposure, composition and focusing. However, to show a simulated exposure and to ensure you are not over or underexposing the scene, you should press the Depth of Field button. This will initiate the Exposure Simulation setting.

Live View on a television

Using an HDMI cable, it is possible to display a Live View image on a monitor, to give you a larger screen on which to judge exposure, focus, composition or present to others. When shooting in Live View stills, the camera does not pick up any audio, so there will be no audio output to the TV set.

GPS log data

The GPS receiver within the EOS-1D X Mark II stores GPS data with each image taken. However, if you are recording a log, this data is stored in the camera’s internal memory. The frequency with which you set the GPS update will determine how many days of data the camera’s memory can store. If the update frequency is set to 1 second, you will be able to store around 4.1 days of logs. However, if you reduce the frequency to every 30 seconds or less, you will be able to store up to 100 days. If you need to store data for a longer trip, reduce the frequency of the updates to ensure you keep all the data – once the camera’s internal memory is full, it will delete the oldest log files to create more space.

GPS logging

The EOS-1D X Mark II allows you to use the GPS receiver as a GPS logger. This will record not only the location for each picture, but also the route the camera travels. This data is stored to the camera’s internal memory and can be viewed through the Map Utility software included with the camera. The GPS mode has two settings: In Mode 1, the camera will continue to track the GPS route even when the power switch is set to off, and In Mode 2, turning the camera off will also turn off the GPS logging. If you wish to preserve battery life and do not need the route logged when the camera is off, set Mode 2. In Auto Power Off, the camera will still receive GPS updates even when set to Mode 2, so the battery may still drain faster than expected.

Manually updating clock

When travelling, one of the first things you should do is set the time on your camera so your files all have the correct time set on them in the EXIF data. When you go to the time/date settings option in the menu, you may find the date setting cannot be changed. If this is the case, it is because you have Auto Update set in the GPS settings of the camera. If you would like to manually set the date/time and time zone then first disable the Auto Update time setting in the GPS menu options.

GPS and time setting

To enable accurate time setting within the camera, you can use GPS time from satellites to set the camera’s clock. The accuracy is within +/- 0.02sec. If you have several cameras, this is a good way of making sure they are all in sync; it is also useful when travelling as you can accurately update the clock wherever you are in the world using the auto-update setting. Within the Auto time setting, there is a Set Now option to force update the clock. If this is greyed out, or if the clock is not updating, it is because the camera cannot ‘see’ enough satellites. To be able to update the time, the GPS receiver must have a lock on at least 5 satellites, so you should move to an area with a clearer view of the sky to update the time.

GPS signal frequency

The EOS-1D X Mark II’s high precision GPS receiver allows you to select the positioning interval – the frequency at which geotag data is generated. If you were moving around a lot, then it would be wise to increase the frequency to ensure more accurate results with each image. However, if you are staying in one location, then the frequency can be reduced. This will have the advantage of preserving battery life – the more frequently the GPS data is acquired, the faster the camera battery will drain.

GPS and EOS Movies

The EOS-1D X Mark II includes a high precision GPS receiver to allow you to geotag images and movies. When shooting a movie clip with the camera, the GPS location is taken at the start of the movie clip recording, so if you move over a distance while recording, the overall journey taken during filming will not be recorded.

GPS notifications

The EOS-1D X Mark II includes an advanced GPS receiver to allow you to GPS tag your images directly into the EXIF data of each image while shooting. When looking at the GPS information display, you may see either a 2D or 3D notification next to the Satellite Reception setting – if it shows 3D, then the camera is also recording elevation data along with Latitude and Longitude. If you only see 2D, but want to also record the elevation data, try moving the camera to a position where it has a better view of the sky, with fewer obstructions likely to reduce the satellite signal.

Movie Servo AF Speed

The EOS-1D X Mark II features an adjustable Movie Servo AF speed to change the speed of focus from slow to fast when performing focus moves such as a focus pull. Within this setting there are options for when the setting takes place: Before Shoot and During Shoot. This is adjusted with the ‘When Active’ setting. If set to Always on, you will be able to see the speed of focus change whether you are shooting or not. However, when set to During Shooting, the AF Speed adjustment will only take place while you are actually recording. When not recording, the AF Speed will be at the default setting.

Movie servo AF when magnified

For precise focus when shooting in Movie mode, it can be useful to magnify the view to be able to see it in fine detail. In this magnified view, the Movie AF will still function. However, even if you have FlexiZone or Face and Tracking AF activated, this will not function when zoomed in. If you wish to track a moving subject, you’ll need to zoom back out to standard view to enable it.

Line Input

Many EOS models feature a 3.5mm jack input for plugging in a microphone to record stereo audio. However, in a first for the EOS system, the EOS-1D X Mark II can also accept a line level input from an external mixer or recorder, without risking damage to the audio circuits. To use the input as a line feed, find the audio settings in the Movie functions menu and select ‘Line Input’.

Movie Servo AF track sensitivity

Just as photographing moving subjects may mean you encounter obstacles moving between you and your subject, the same is true when shooting Movies. The EOS-1D X II helps avoid focus issues like this in Movie shooting, with a similar setting – Movie Servo AF track sensitivity. It works in the same way. If you want the AF to respond immediately to subjects appearing beneath the active AF area, move it towards responsive. Or if you want the camera to be less bothered by obstacles crossing between you and your subject, move it down towards locked-on.

Movie Servo AF focus pull

When using AF to pull focus on the EOS-1D X Mark II, it is possible to select one of 10 levels of focus adjust speed, from fast and snappy to slow and deliberate. This makes control of the focus simple and allows natural looking focus pulls to be created in AF. If you find the AF Speed function is greyed out, check which AF mode you are in – the AF Speed can only be set in FlexiZone, not in Face and Tracking AF.

Movie and Custom Controls

The AI Servo Movie AF functions make it very simple to track a moving subject. However, Servo AF is most useful when you have full control over when it functions. To start use a button like the Depth of Field preview button and to stop the Movie Servo AF use the Movie Servo AF Pause function. This can be set in the Custom Controls screen of the Custom Function menu.

FlexiZone and Face Tracking

In Live View shooting you can select one of two focus modes, either FlexiZone or Face and Tracking. If you select the Face and Tracking option, but no faces are detected in the frame or you do not select a subject to focus on, the camera will switch to FlexiZone focusing.

Caring for touchscreen

If you find the touchscreen is not functioning as you expect, it could be because either the screen has moisture on it or your finger is wet. Try turning off the camera and using a cloth to dry the screen as well as drying your finger tips. When filming in damp conditions, try to keep the screen and your fingers as dry as possible or disable the touchscreen and use the multi-controller to change focus points.

Live View touch control

The touchscreen control on the EOS-1D X Mark II has two levels of sensitivity: standard and sensitive. Standard should prove sufficient for most uses, however the sensitive setting will make the screen more responsive, which is useful when you want to minimise the pressure you apply to the screen when filming. If you want to avoid accidentally adjusting focus while filming, then switch off the LV Touch Control setting. This will disable the touchscreen functions and you will need to use the multi-controller to move focus points.

High-speed shooting in Live View

In Live View, the EOS-1D X Mark II can shoot up to 16fps in RAW. If you find the frame rate is slightly slower than expected, check your ISO setting. If the ISO is set to H1 (102,400) or higher, then the maximum frame rate in Live View will drop to around 14fps rather than the maximum of 16fps.

Silent shooting

The EOS-1D X Mark II features several silent shooting options to reduce the sound when taking stills by controlling the re-cocking of the mirror. When the camera is set to Live View shooting, no matter which silent shooting option you have set (S, S-High or S-Low), it will not reduce the sound any further – this is because the noise comes from the mirror which, in Live View, is already raised and makes no sound.

Exposure simulation in low light

In low light you may find the Exposure Simulation function doesn’t work as there is not enough light to give an accurate simulation. If this happens you’ll see a flashing 'Exp.Sim' in the bottom corner. If you want to try and get Exposure Simulation under lower light conditions, make sure that Highlight Tone Priority is set to Disable and that the maximum ISO speed is expanded in the ISO Speed settings. This will enable the exposure simulation to function in lower light levels.

Exposure simulation in low light

In low light you may find the Exposure Simulation function doesn’t work as there is not enough light to give an accurate simulation. If this happens you’ll see a flashing 'Exp.Sim' in the bottom corner. If you want to try and get Exposure Simulation under lower light conditions, make sure that Highlight Tone Priority is set to Disable and that the maximum ISO speed is expanded in the ISO Speed settings. This will enable the exposure simulation to function in lower light levels.

MOV, MP4 and 4K

If you’re looking to shoot in 4K resolution on an EOS-1D X Mark II but can’t find the 4K resolution options, check the MOV/MP4 setting. If you have the camera set to MP4 file type, the 4K resolution options will not be available. Instead switch camera to MOV and the 4K resolution and frame rate options will be available.

EOS battery life

All operations carried out by the camera lens are actually powered by the camera’s battery. This means that continually focusing or using Image Stabilisation (IS) will drain the camera battery faster. Not all lenses use the same amount of power to focus or perform IS, so if you notice that the battery is depleting quicker than usual, it is mostly likely because lens is drawing a lot of power. It is therefore especially important to have spare camera batteries with you if you are shooting with large telephoto lenses.

Shooting in cold temperatures

When shooting in very cold conditions, you may notice that the camera’s maximum drive speed decreases from 14fps. This is normal when the battery gets very cold as it cannot provide enough power, so the drive will drop to around 10fps. If you need to maximise the drive speed when in cold conditions then try and keep the battery as warm as possible with shielding or insulation around the lower battery grip.

Shooting in hot temperatures

When shooting in hot temperatures, the camera’s internal temperature will rise. If you are shooting continuous bursts, this will exacerbate the temperature increase. If you notice that the camera drive speed seems to be slower than normal, have a look at the drive speed icon on the top plate LCD. If it is flashing, then it is a sign that the camera is too hot. You can continue to shoot but the drive speed will drop to avoid excess heat build-up and risk of damage to the camera’s internals.

AF in low temperatures

The EOS-1D X Mark II features a variety of options for selecting AF points depending on the subject you are shooting. When working in low temperatures, you may find it difficult to see the viewfinder display for either Area AF or Large Zone AF. If this is the case, then you should switch to one of the other AF selection modes – such as Zone or AF Point Expansion – as these will be clearer.

Hot cards

When using Live View or Movie shooting on the EOS-1D X Mark II, the camera will get hot. This is especially true when shooting 4K video and extra processing is required, generating more heat. The camera, like all EOS models with Live View and Movie shooting, has an internal temperature cut-off and displays a warning icon when it is hot. If you see this icon (a hot thermometer graphic) even if you have finished shooting and the camera has finished writing to the card, the card will still be very hot. In this case, open the card slot door open, wait a couple of minutes and then remove the card.

New batteries

When using a new battery with the EOS-1D X Mark II, you may find the camera takes some time to turn on. This is simply the camera registering the battery. If you think you might need rapid access to shooting, then when you get a new battery, put it in the camera and turn it on so the registration is completed beforehand.

Battery calibration

Keeping batteries in top working order requires that they are calibrated from time to time. By calibrating batteries, you ensure that they hold their charge and also you are able to accurately report how well the batteries hold their charge when in the camera. When performing a calibration charge with the LP-E19, the charger will fully deplete the battery and then fully charge it. It is best to begin the process when you have time, as it will take around 18-19hrs in total. To maximise the performance of the calibration charge, begin calibration with an almost exhausted battery.

Battery compatibility

The EOS-1D X Mark II was launched with a new battery pack - the LP-E19 - that features a higher capacity to cope with the demands of the new camera. However, the LP-E19 can also be used in older EOS-1 series cameras as far back as the EOS-1D Mark III models. Equally, the previous batteries from the EOS-1D Mark III/IV and 1D X (LP-E4/N) can be used in the EOS-1D X Mark II. When using an older model battery in the EOS-1D X Mark II, you may notice the maximum drive speed is not a fast as expected. This is because the older batteries do not provide enough power, so the drive speed will drop from 14fps to around 12fps. If you need the fastest frame rate, you should stick with the LP-E19 battery pack.

AF point illumination

In the EOS-1D X Mark II the AF points are always illuminated in red to make it easier to see them in a wide range of lighting conditions. If you are shooting in very bright light, then you may find you want them to be brighter still – if so, the last tab in the AF menu will be useful. Here there is an option to choose “Brighter” in the AF Point Brightness setting. Conversely, if you are shooting in low light, you will probably find it better to leave the setting on “Normal” so it does not obstruct your view of your subject.

MP4 and MOV

Like the EOS 7D Mark II, the EOS-1D X Mark II gives the option of recording video files in either MP4 or MOV formats. MP4 files are more easily shared with MOV and are better for editing later. When selecting MOV files, you will have the option of recording either as ALL-I (intraframe) or IPB (interframe) CODECs. When switching to MP4 recording you will not see an option for CODEC selection. This is because, in MP4, all videos are recorded as IPB rather than ALL-I. To access the ALL-I option, you will need to switch the camera into MOV file type.

CF and CFast 2.0 cards

Like its predecessor, the EOS-1D X Mark II features dual card slots. However, for the first time, one of these slots is for CFast 2.0 media. This new standard of memory card, which looks like CompactFlash (CF), actually features much faster write speeds (up to 600MB/sec vs. 167MB/sec for CF). If you want to shoot video in 4K at 50 or 60fps, or Full HD (1080p) at 100 or 120fps but find the camera keeps stopping after a few seconds, this is because you are using a CF card rather than a CFast card. To utilise the faster frame rates, you will need to put a CFast 2.0 card in your camera as even the fastest CF cards will be unable to keep up with the data rate required.

4K video

4K video comes in two types – UHD 4K, designed for television delivery and DCI 4K, designed for cinema delivery. The differences in pixels are small but important, with UHD being 3480x2160pixels and DCI being 4096x2160. The EOS-1D X Mark II shoots its 4K at the DCI resolution, so if you are planning to output your movie to TV, you will have a few extra pixels horizontally to play with or to crop out. When shooting your film footage, you should remember this and avoid framing anything important too close to the edge of the frame.

f/8 focusing

For the first time in the EOS range, the EOS-1D X Mark II offers the ability to focus at f/8 at all 61-AF points depending on the lens used. This means that Extenders can now be used with f/4 lenses and you don’t need to stick to the central point as has been the case before. Additionally, the central 21 points will give cross-type focusing, not just horizontal or vertical focusing. To make use of this, you need to be aware of which lens and Extender you are using, as not all combinations give access to all points. In a lens/Extender combination, the Extender is the most crucial part – to use this new f/8 focusing, make sure you are using one of the latest Mark III Extenders. With the Mark I or Mark II Extenders, the f/8 focusing ability will not be possible.