Canon U.S.A. Announces the Highly Anticipated EOS 5D Mark III Digital SLR Camera
Featuring Improved Image Quality, a 61-Point High Density Reticular AF, Six fps High-Speed Continuous Shooting and Enhanced HD Video Recording FeaturesLAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., March 2, 2012 – On the 25th anniversary of its world-renowned EOS System, Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, is proud to announce its latest model, the new EOS 5D Mark III Digital SLR Camera. Positioned between the extremely popular EOS 5D Mark II and Canon's top-of-the-line professional EOS-1D X model, the EOS 5D Mark III delivers superb image quality, thanks to a new 22.3-megapixel full-frame Canon CMOS sensor, a high-performance DIGIC 5+ Imaging Processor, a 61-point High Density Reticular Autofocus (AF) System and six frames-per-second (fps) continuous shooting speed. Building upon the trailblazing success of the EOS 5D Mark II, the EOS 5D Mark III also incorporates enhanced video features for professionals in the fields of cinematography, television production and documentary filmmaking, including better noise reduction, longer recording times and a built-in headphone jack for audio monitoring. The EOS 5D Mark III is Canon's answer to hundreds of thousands of advanced amateurs and emerging professionals looking for a compact, high-quality camera system to help them achieve their artistic vision, whether it be through still or video imagery. The EOS 5D Mark III introduction coincides with Canon's 25th anniversary celebration of the EOS camera system. Canon's award-winning EOS system first debuted in March of 1987 with the introduction of the EOS 650 SLR camera and three EF lenses.
"We are extremely excited to announce the highly anticipated follow-up to our EOS 5D Mark II, a camera which has been called a 'game-changer' in most professional photography and videography circles. The EOS 5D Mark III will carry on that tradition, delivering better and more advanced features, helping our customers achieve excellent image quality for stills and video," stated Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Imaging Technologies and Communications Group, Canon U.S.A.
The EOS 5D Mark III inherits many features from Canon's recently announced flagship DSLR, the EOS-1D X, including a DIGIC 5+ Imaging Processor and a high-performance 61-point High Density Reticular AF array with up to 41 cross-type points and five dual cross-type points available, depending on the lens in use. The enhanced processing power enables fast continuous shooting of up to six fps, exceeding the speed of the EOS 5D Mark II model by more than 50 percent, and with improved weather resistance the EOS 5D Mark III is a serious option for sports and wildlife photographers.
Official Canon 5D mark III site
EOS 5D Mark III Video: The Legacy Continues
The EOS 5D Mark II blazed the trail for EOS cameras and Canon to
enter the professional video and cinema markets, paving the way for
Canon's recent introduction of the Cinema EOS system of cameras and
lenses. Now, the EOS 5D Mark III continues Canon's commitment to these
new markets with new and requested features from cinematographers,
television production professionals and independent filmmakers. This new
model captures 1080p Full HD video at 24p (23.976), 25p, and 30p
(29.97) fps; 720p HD recording at 60 (59.94) and 50 fps; and SD
recording at 30 (29.97) and 25 fps, giving cinematographers and
videographers more flexibility and options for video capture.The EOS 5D Mark III includes new H.264 video compression formats to simplify and speed up post-production work: intraframe (ALL-I) compression for an editing-friendly format and interframe (IPB) compression for superior data storage efficiency, giving professionals options to help achieve their ideal workflow. Like the EOS-1D X, the 5D Mark III also includes two methods of SMPTE-compliant timecode embedding, Rec Run and Free Run, allowing video footage from multiple cameras and separate audio recordings to be synced together in post production.
The new full-frame CMOS sensor and DIGIC 5+ processor have enhanced the camera's image processing performance over the 5D Mark II, significantly reducing moir‚ and color artifacts in scenes with horizontal lines. The video footage produced will exhibit less moir‚ than seen in previous DSLR models, resulting in a significant improvement in HD video quality. Accommodating documentary filmmakers, and event videographers using EOS DSLR cameras, the 5D Mark III includes the ability to record video continuously up to 29 minutes and 59 seconds across multiple 4GB files. Long-form filmmakers will enjoy the camera's automatic file splitting in combination with the extended memory capacity offered by dual card slots.
The Canon EOS 5D Mark III also includes manual audio level control with 64 levels, adjustable both before and during movie recording. There is also an automatic audio level setting, or sound recording can be turned off entirely. A wind filter is also included. Sound can be recorded either through the internal monaural microphone or via an optional external microphone through the stereo mic input. Notably, the EOS 5D Mark III is the first EOS Digital SLR to feature a built-in headphone jack for real-time audio monitoring during video capture.
Newly Developed Canon CMOS Sensor
With its completely new 22.3-megapixel full-frame Canon CMOS image
sensor, the EOS 5D Mark III becomes the highest resolution Canon Digital
SLR released to date. It is eminently suitable for a wide variety of
assignments including weddings and portraits, nature and wildlife,
travel and landscapes as well as commercial and industrial photography.
With a gapless microlens design, a new photodiode structure and improved
on-chip noise reduction, the new sensor achieves higher sensitivity and
lower noise levels for both RAW image data as well as in-camera JPEGs
and EOS Movies compared to the 5D Mark II. The result is outstanding
image quality in all shooting conditions, even low light. An
eight-channel readout doubles the speed of image data throughput from
the sensor to the DIGIC 5+ processor, resulting in better video image
quality as well as six fps for still photos.The low-light capability of the EOS 5D Mark III is evident in its incredible ISO range and image quality in poor lighting conditions. Adjustable from ISO 100 to 25,600 within its standard range, the new model also offers a low ISO 50 setting for studio and landscape photography and two extended ISO settings of 51,200 and 102,400, well suited for law enforcement, government or forensic field applications.
The new 5D Mark III is also equipped with Canon's EOS Integrated Cleaning System, featuring a Self Cleaning Sensor Unit with a fluorine coating that repels dust and dirt particles.
Canon-Exclusive DIGIC 5+ Imaging Processor
The EOS 5D Mark III's new DIGIC 5+ Imaging Processor is 17 times
faster than the DIGIC 4.The EOS 5D Mark III uses that extra speed not
only for improved image quality, but also to add no less than nine new
features that do not exist on the 5D Mark II. These new features include
six fps continuous shooting, HDR and Multiple Exposure modes, in-camera
RAW processing, a comparative playback function, Scene Intelligent Auto
mode, two forms of movie compression, and support for high-speed UDMA 7
Compact Flash memory cards.Another extremely valuable feature enhanced by the DIGIC 5+ Imaging Processor is the EOS 5D Mark III's choice of reduced resolution M-RAW (10.5 megapixel) and S-RAW (5.5 megapixel) recording modes. These settings are particularly useful to wedding photographers for candid photos that do not require the EOS 5D Mark III's 22 megapixel full resolution, because they take up less space on the memory cards and speed up post-processing without losing the critical benefits of RAW image data, such as highlight and shadow control as well as white balance adjustment. M-RAW and S-RAW also preserve the full field of view rather than cropping the image or resorting to JPEG mode to reduce resolution.
High-Performance 61-Point High Density Reticular AF
For still photographers, Canon has included its new 61-point High
Density Reticular AF System, originally introduced with the
top-of-the-line EOS-1D X professional camera. A significant advancement
over previous 5D-series AF systems, the new 61-Point High Density
Reticular AF included in the EOS 5D Mark III is the most sophisticated
SLR AF system Canon has ever released. All 61 points are manually
selectable and sensitive to horizontal contrast with maximum apertures
larger than or equal to f/5.6. The camera's twenty one focusing points
in the central area are also standard precision cross-type and effective
with maximum apertures larger than or equal to f/5.6. The center five
points are ultra-high-precision diagonal cross-type points for maximum
apertures larger than or equal to f/2.8. The 20 outer focusing points
function as high-precision cross-type points with maximum apertures
larger than or equal to f/4.0. Other innovations of the new 61-point
High Density Reticular AF include expanded AF coverage area, superior
focusing precision and low-light sensitivity to EV -2, and greater
low-contrast subject detection capability compared to earlier EOS AF
systems. (See image below for AF point configuration)
The EOS 5D Mark III uses the same high-performance AI Servo III AF tracking algorithm as the flagship EOS-1D X professional DSLR. This new feature works together with the 61-point High Density Reticular AF system to provide superb tracking performance that blends very well with the new camera's 6 frames-per-second high-speed continuous shooting capabilities.
Similar to the AF point selection options offered in the EOS 7D and EOS-1D X camera models, the EOS 5D Mark III offers six AF point selection modes: Spot, Single Point, Single Point with surrounding four points, Single Point with surrounding eight points, Zone selection and Automatic AF point selection.
iFCL Metering
Complementing the EOS 5D Mark III camera's 61-point AF system is
Canon's 63-zone iFCL dual layer metering system. The 'FCL' stands for
'Focus, Color and Luminance,' and references the fact that the metering
system not only measures color and luminance data, but also analyzes the
data provided by each point of the AF system. Canon's iFCL metering
keeps exposure levels stable from shot to shot, even as the light source
changes. The camera's autofocus information is also used to help
determine which area of the scene is of greatest importance in
determining exposure.
HDR Mode
The EOS 5D Mark III camera features a built-in HDR mode, merging
three images at various exposure levels into a single image, in-camera,
for stunning photographs of landscapes and architecture with enhanced
tonal gradation beyond the range of the naked eye. The exposure levels
in the camera's HDR mode can be set to cover a range of up to ñ3 stops,
in a choice of five settings: Natural, Art Standard, Art Vivid, Art Bold
and Art Embossed providing unique visual effects. Individual source
images can be saved as separate files, and the HDR mode has an optional
automatic alignment function that can be useful for hand-held shooting.
The EOS 5D Mark III's standard Auto Exposure Bracketing function has
been upgraded to allow for up to seven exposures per sequence, and
exposure compensation can now be set for up to +/- 5EV.
Multiple Exposure Mode
The EOS 5D Mark III is the second EOS Digital SLR after the EOS-1D X
to feature Multiple Exposure capabilities with the ability to combine up
to nine individual images into a single composite image, with no need
for post-processing in a computer. Four different compositing methods
are provided for maximum creative control, including Additive, Average,
Bright and Dark. Compositing results can be viewed in real time on the
camera's LCD monitor, and there is a one-step Undo command that allows
photographers to delete an image and try again if desired. The EOS 5D
Mark III camera's Multiple Exposure mode even allows photographers to
specify a previously captured RAW image as the starting point for a new
Multiple Exposure composite image, or shoot continuously when
photographing moving subjects.
Comparative Playback
A new feature seen for the first time in the EOS System on the 5D
Mark III is Comparative Playback allowing photographers to display two
images side by side on the camera's 3.2-inch LCD screen. The images can
be displayed with a histogram to check exposure levels, or magnified to
check for focus or facial expressions.
Durability, Reliability and Other Features
The EOS 5D Mark III features a rugged camera body with magnesium
alloy body covers and a stainless steel lens mount. The new camera also
has dust- and moisture-resistant design with improved gaskets and seals.
Although not quite as weatherproof as an EOS-1D-series camera, the EOS
5D Mark III does feature improved weather resistance over the EOS 5D
Mark II model. The EOS 5D Mark III's newly developed shutter unit has a
durability rating of 150,000 exposures, and shutter release lag time has
been reduced to 59 milliseconds, making the shutter button very
responsive. Canon's locking mode dial is standard on the new model and a
new custom function allows photographers to shut off other dials to
prevent inadvertent operation.The EOS 5D Mark III uses the same LP-E6 lithium-ion battery pack as other popular EOS cameras like the 5D Mark II, 7D and 60D. Battery life is estimated at 950 exposures at normal temperatures, an improvement of 100 exposures more than the EOS 5D Mark II. The EOS 5D Mark III body weighs approximately 33.5 oz. with a battery installed, and the dimensions are approximately 6.0 x 4.6 x 3.0 inches.
The EOS 5D Mark III incorporates Silent shooting modes, available for low-speed continuous shooting as well as single exposures. This feature is ideal when photographing in quiet environments. For better file management especially when working with multiple cameras, the new model also supports custom file names. There is also a new image rating feature that lets photographers rank their photos from 1 to 5 stars for quick editing.
The EOS 5D Mark III features a 3.2-inch Clear View II LCD screen with 1,040,000 dot resolution. This is the same screen that's used in the top-of-the-line EOS-1D X. The camera's optical viewfinder has been upgraded to approximately 100 percent coverage, and it features an Intelligent Viewfinder display with an optional grid on demand. The EOS 5D Mark III also has a built-in Dual Axis Electronic Level that can be displayed on both the LCD screen and the optical viewfinder.
The EOS 5D Mark III accepts both Compact Flash Type 1 and SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards in a dual card slot configuration. Three recording methods are supported: Record the same data to both cards, record different file sizes or types to each card, or automatically switch to the second card when the first card is full.
Accessories
The EOS 5D Mark III DSLR also has a number of new optional
accessories, including the new Canon Wireless File Transmitter WFT-E7A
featuring wireless LAN support for 802.11 a/b/g/n signal protocols for
various network environments. The WFT-E7A connects to the camera through
its USB port and includes a built-in gigabit Ethernet connection, time
syncing for multiple cameras on the same network, FTP mode, EOS Utility
mode, WFT Server mode and Media Server mode. With this new WFT model,
professionals can synchronize clocks on multiple cameras and use the
unit to support linked shooting when utilizing multiple cameras. In
addition, Bluetooth-compatible equipment can be easily linked to the
device as well.
The EOS 5D Mark III also has an optional Canon GPS Receiver GP-E2, which can be connected to the camera via the accessory shoe or a USB cable. With a GPS logging function built-in, the GP-E2 will log latitude, longitude, elevation, and the Universal Time Code - and allow viewing of camera movement on a PC after shooting. With its built-in compass, the GP-E2 receiver will also record camera direction when shooting, even when shooting vertically. The Canon GPS Receiver GP-E2 is compatible with the EOS-1D X and EOS 7Di as well as the EOS 5D Mark III.ii
Battery Grip BG-E11 is an optional accessory for the EOS 5D Mark III that accepts one or two LP-E6 lithium-ion battery packs or a set of six AA-size batteries. This new grip has a multicontroller and a multifunction (M.Fn) button together a with a full set of grip controls for easy operation when shooting portraits or other vertical format photos. The BG-E11 is made from sturdy magnesium alloy and has the same degree of weather resistance as the EOS 5D Mark III.
Speedlite 600EX-RT
In addition to the EOS 5D Mark III, Canon is also announcing the
first professional Speedlite on the market with a built-in wireless
radio transmitter, the new Speedlite 600EX-RT. The new Canon Speedlite
600EX-RT is the flagship model in the Speedlite line, ideal for wedding
portrait and photojournalism. Compatible with all EOS Digital SLRs, this
new model eliminates the need for accessory radio slave units and their
inherent limitations. Speedlite 600EX-RT features Master-Slave two-way
transmission, letting the photographer control the Speedlite settings
directly from the "Master" camera. Radio-based Wireless E-TTL can be performed with up to 15 Speedlite 600EX-RT "slave units", used off-camera up to 98.4 feet (30m) away, and triggered by either a "Master" 600EX-RT on-camera, or the optional new Speedlite Transmitter ST-E3-RT. Used with the EOS 5D Mark III or EOS-1D X, up to five groups of flashes can be completely controlled, independently, off-camera. And, it remains fully compatible with Canon's legacy optical-based Wireless E-TTL technology, for users already committed to existing EOS Speedlites. The Speedlite features enhanced weather-resistant construction - matching that of the EOS-1D X camera body - and a more reliable electrical contact. The flash head zoom range now reaches from 20mm to 200mm.The Speedlite also allows remote shutter release of a single EOS camera, or Linked Shooting (simultaneous firing of up to 15 cameras, when one "Master" camera is fired), and includes gelatin filters and a dedicated filter holder to help photographers match ambient light.
Speedlite Transmitter ST-E3-RT
Canon is also introducing the new Speedlite Transmitter ST-E3-RT.
Providing full support of Canon's new radio-based wireless flash
technology, the new ST-E3-RT can control up to five groups of flashes,
up to 98.4 feet (30m) from the camera. The remote shutter release
capability enables photographers to either fire a single camera remotely
(by pressing a button on the ST-E3-RT), or to fire up to 15 EOS cameras
with Canon's Linked Shooting feature. Making it easy to control and
adjust, all of the Speedlite Transmitter features are accessible through
the Flash control menu of the EOS-1D X and EOS 5D Mark III cameras.
Pricing and Availability
The Canon EOS 5D Mark III Digital SLR camera is expected to be
available at the end of March 2012 and will be sold in a body-only
configuration at an estimated retail price of $3,499.00. The EOS 5D Mark
III will also be available with the EF24-105mm f/4L IS USM zoom lens in
a kit for an estimated retail price of $4,299.00. The Wireless File
Transmitter WFT-E7A is scheduled to be available by the end of April
2012 at an estimated retail price of $849.99. Availability for GPS
Receiver GP-E2 is expected by the end of April 2012, with an estimated
retail price of $390.00.Battery Grip BG-E11 is scheduled to be available
at the end of April 2012 for an estimated retail price of $490.00. The
Speedlite 600EX-RT and Speedlite Transmitter ST-E3-RT are also scheduled
for end of March 2012 availability at estimated retail prices of
$629.99 and $470.00 respectively.
About Canon U.S.A., Inc.
Canon U.S.A., Inc., is a leading provider of consumer,
business-to-business, and industrial digital imaging solutions. With
$45.6 billion in global revenue, its parent company, Canon Inc.
(NYSE:CAJ), ranks third overall in patent holdings in the U.S. in 2011†,
and is one of Fortune Magazine's World's Most Admired Companies in
2011. Canon U.S.A. is committed to the highest levels of customer
satisfaction and loyalty, providing 100 percent U.S.-based consumer
service and support for all of the products it distributes. Canon U.S.A.
is dedicated to its Kyosei philosophy of social and
environmental responsibility. To keep apprised of the latest news from
Canon U.S.A., sign up for the Company's RSS news feed by visiting www.usa.canon.com/rss.All referenced product names, and other marks, are trademarks of their respective owners.
Availability, prices, and specifications of all products are subject to change without notice. Actual prices are set by individual dealers and may vary.
i When the EOS 7D is used with the GP-E2, the following restrictions will apply: a) geotagging function will not work for movies while recording; b) geotagging features will not work for movies when using the Map Utility; c) electronic compass information and automatic time setting is not available; d) transmission via the hot shoe is not possible.
ii In certain countries and regions, the use of GPS may be restricted. Therefore, be sure to use GPS in accordance with the laws and regulations of your country or region. Be particularly careful when traveling outside your home country. As a signal is received from GPS satellites, take sufficient measures when using in locations where the use of electronics is regulated.
The EOS 5D Mark III requires a firmware upgrade to be compatible with the GPS Receiver GP-E2, which will be available soon.
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