The EOS C500 PL fully supports both 4K and 2K image resolutions; as such, it is the ideal choice for demanding video productions across a wide gamut that ranges from high-quality commercials and TV dramas to motion-picture releases. A 4K workflow offers four times the resolution of standard high-definition acquisition, resulting in life-like theatrical presentations, a familiar, film-style workflow, full versatility during post-production, and added flexibility for visual effects.
Canon design engineers have developed a 4K/2K acquisition platform and matching workflow for the video and motion-picture industries. With 4K rapidly moving to become the de facto standard for theatrical projection, the need for high-resolution acquisition is a production reality. The EOS C500 PL is designed to fit seamlessly with projects shot entirely in 4K, or for mixed 4K/2K productions. Coupled to external data recorders, the EOS C500 PL is a true “4K powerhouse,” while still retaining the flexibility to handle standard HD workflows.
The EOS C500 PL lets you capture images in a choice of 4K Cinema RAW and 4K Half Cinema RAW modes at frame rates up to, respectively, 60 fps and 120 fps, with 10-bit resolution. For enhanced flexibility, these two Bayer RAW modes are offered in a choice of Digital Cinema Initiatives/DCI 1.895:1 or Quad Full High Definition/QFHD 16:9 aspect ratios.
4K RAW data output from the EOS C500 PL image sensor can be recorded using about one-third of the space required for 4K RGB data, and Cinema RAW-based recording systems offer an enhanced degree of creative freedom during post-processing.
Primary applications for Cinema RAW include video production for high-end commercials and major motion-picture releases, in addition to footage for high-quality visual effects. 4K Cinema RAW data output can be processed using the Cinema RAW Development software application, which is available through the Canon website.
For trouble-free exchange of video and audio material, the EOS C500 PL uses the industry-standard Material Exchange Format (MXF) for its internal recording file structure. With MXF, video and audio are interwrapped into a single file, together with important metadata about the project. In addition to providing the highest level of compatibility with non-linear editing/NLE systems, use of MXF-format files offers integration with high-end, networked DAM (Digital Asset Management) and MAM (Media Asset Management) systems used by many TV networks and production studios.
When HD is required – either as the acquisition format, or as a proxy file system for 4K output – the EOS C500 PL supports the highest image quality, with Full HD 1920x1080 resolution, 50 Mbps bit rate and 4:2:2 color sampling. The system delivers outstanding results via its powerful built-in MPEG-2 XF codec and recording to Compact Flash/CF card installed within the camera body. MPEG-2 compression is fully compatible with existing industry infrastructures and non-linear editing platforms.
The EOS C500 PL features a Canon-designed Super 35mm, 16:9 CMOS sensor with full 4K resolution capable of delivering pristine-quality, 8.85-megapixel images needed for commercial applications with minimal moire and other artifacts. Based on the same technology as the well-received EOS C300, the EOS C500 PL's High-Sensitivity CMOS image sensor has the additional ability to directly output full 4K, 10-bit RAW Bayered data through two dedicated 3G-SDI connectors. The sensor's large, Super 35mm size lets you capture cinematic shallow depth-of-field imagery, yet maintain the enhanced image characteristics demanded by professional cinematographers.
The EOS C500 PL features a log gamma setting that sets the camera to maximize dynamic range and provide wide exposure latitude. The files produced using log format are ideal for post-production processes where corrections, color matching and grading are applied. It provides users with a high level of creative freedom in post-production without substantially degrading the image quality. When using Canon Log, the EOS C500 PL can provide a dynamic range up to 800%. Canon Log Gamma can be applied in any EOS C500 PL recording or output mode.
Designed to integrate into existing production setups, the EOS C500 PL is fully compatible with a wide variety of industry-standard PL-mount lenses, ensuring the finest in today's technology and operability will work seamlessly with trusted optics already in the filmmakers possession. Compatibility with Canon's existing PL mount lenses means filmmakers can take advantage of the brilliant new optical designs Canon has developed for the Cinema market.
Canon's amazing CN-E PL mount zoom lenses deliver superlative performance for large-scale, big budget movie productions. The PL CN-E series is 4K ready and comes in two models: Wide Angle CN-E14.5-60mm T2.6 L S/SP and Telephoto CN-E30-300 T2.95-3.7 L S/SP.
Canon's EF Cinema Zoom lenses offers unrivaled optical performance for demanding high-end productions, available in both EF and PL mount configurations. With fluorite, aspherical lens elements and advanced optical design, these unequalled EF Cinema Zoom lenses are capable of 4K-image reproduction. The wide-angle CN-E14.5-60mm T2.6 L S/SP provides industry-leading breadth of range; the telephoto CN-E30-300mm T2.95-3.7 L S/SP rivals best-in-class zoom magnification and telephoto focal length. Together these lenses cover the range most commonly used in cinema shooting.