Canon today pre-announces the release of a firmware update for the
multiple award-winning EOS 5D Mark II. Originally announced in late
2009, the update adds 24 and 25 frames per
second (fps) recording to the camera’s EOS MOVIE video function, and
will be available as a free download from the middle of March.
Developed following feedback from photographers and cinematographers,
Firmware 2.0.3 further enhances the EOS 5D Mark II’s excellent video
performance. The addition of new frame rates expands the camera’s video
potential, providing filmmakers with the ability to shoot 1080p Full HD
footage at 24fps (actual 23.976fps) – the optimum frame rate for
cinematic video. 25fps support at both 1920×1080 and 640×480
resolutions will allow users to film at the frame rate required for the
PAL broadcast standard, while the new firmware will also change the
30fps option to the NTSC video standard of 29.97fps.
A new histogram display for shooting movies in manual exposure,
shutter-priority (Tv) and aperture-priority (Av) have been added, and
exposure modes will also be available in movie mode. Improved audio
functionality will allow users to set sound record levels manually using
a sound-level meter displayed on the LCD screen. The audio sampling
frequency has also been increased from 44.1KHz to 48KHz, providing the
optimum audio signal typically required for professional or broadcast
material.
With its full frame CMOS sensor and compatibility with Canon’s wide
range of premium lenses, the EOS 5D Mark II is already recognised for
its outstanding HD video performance. Launched in September 2008, the
camera immediately created a wide range of new possibilities for
photographers and videographers, and the addition of new frame rates
and manual audio levels extends those possibilities even further –
allowing movie makers to shoot stunning movies to suit practically any
creative purpose.
Extreme sports photographer Richard Walch was one of the first
to be given the chance to use the newly updated EOS 5D Mark II to
shoot the snowboarding movie “I Love My Friends”. Commenting on the EOS
5D Mark II’s video performance, Richard said: “The addition of the new
frame rates opens up a whole new range of possibilities. If you’re a
cinematographer, independent film maker or just enthusiastic about
making your own movies, get out there and give it a try”.
“I Love My Friends” shot by Richard Walch on the EOS 5D Mark II with
the new firmware includes a look behind the scenes video is available
to view at Canon website.
The firmware will be available to download from mid-March from
the Canon website.
