The Canon EOS R5 Mark II is here, it brings features like new built-in Digital IS stabilization, 8K 60 fps raw recording, in-camera VR preview, and advanced machine learning noise reduction. Here's how it performs in practice.
Coming to you from Hugh Hou, this detailed video explores the capabilities of the new Canon EOS R5 Mark II, comparing it with the Canon EOS R5 C. For VR filmmakers, the camera supports the RF 5.2mm f.2.8 L dual fisheye lens and can shoot 8K at 60 fps, similar to the cinema-level R5 C. But it also boasts several advantages, such as a new battery that allows shooting in Canon RAW Light in 8K 60p without an external power source.
Carrying the R5 Mark II, Hou takes you through its practical applications. Shooting at the COSM near SoFi Stadium, he tests it in low-light conditions, showcasing its strengths. The built-in Digital IS for the dual fisheye lens offers new stabilization modes, significantly reducing motion blur jitter due to handheld movement or motion vibration. This makes it invaluable for scenarios where minor jitter can ruin a shot. Though it doesn’t replace a gimbal, it enhances stability, especially in 3D and VR settings.
The video highlights the VR Preview feature, a game-changer for on-set work. You can navigate and zoom in on 8K 3D videos using the LCD touchscreen, ensuring you’ve captured the necessary details. This real-time interactive playback is a significant step forward, allowing instant verification of your shots. The R5 Mark II also introduces In-camera upscaling and neural network noise reduction. These features use deep learning to enhance image quality, making it possible to generate ultra-high-resolution images and reduce noise.
The Canon R5 Mark II also improves upon existing ones, such as adding Canon C-Log 2 for more dynamic range in raw footage. However, Hou advises caution as C-Log 2 can be noisier in low light. For less noise and ease of post-processing, sticking with C-Log 3 is recommended. Additionally, the camera now includes chromatic aberration and peripheral illumination correction, enhancing image quality, particularly with the dual fisheye lens.
A noteworthy feature for VR filmmakers is the HF Anti-Flicker Shooting setting, reducing flicker when pointing the camera at screens like LED walls. This feature ensures smooth, flicker-free virtual production, making it invaluable for professionals working in environments with various screen displays. For audio, the R5 Mark II supports uncompressed LPCM 24-bit 48 KHz 4-channel recording, allowing for high-quality spatial audio capture.
Hou also points out some areas where the R5 Mark II could improve. For instance, the absence of a leveling feature during recording is a significant drawback for professionals who need to check the level live while moving the camera. Despite this, the camera's upgrades and new features make it a strong contender in the hybrid camera market. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Hou.
Another review of a hybrid camera where the excitement seems to be all the video features and options. I guess photography is either dead or dying in this era and camera makers don't seem to care that much about improving technology of still photography anymore. If medium format cameras and lenses (and lack of) were not so expensive that could have been the avenue photographers would gather, but for many, including me, it is cost prohibitive.