Canon’s EOS R1 and EOS R5 Mark II accelerate high volume data processing and use deep learning to upgrade autofocus, continuous shooting and image quality.
EOS R1
Canon’s EOS R1 and EOS R5 Mark II are new models in the EOS R mirrorless range. Both cameras have a new Accelerated Capture imaging platform that combines a new processor – the DIGIC Accelerator – with the DIGIC X image processor and new high-speed image sensors.
The DIGIC Accelerator supports high volume data processing that takes advantage of deep learning techniques to enhance autofocus, continuous shooting and image quality.
The EOS R1 and EOS R5 Mark II both feature the most recent version of Dual Pixel CMOS – Dual Pixel Intelligent AF – developed to track subjects more accurately by identifying the face and upper bodies of subjects and avoiding obstacles or other subjects. Users can also register specific faces to track and prioritise them consistently over other players.
For fast, dynamic sports applications, Action Priority mode is another AF development. It automatically identifies common action poses in basketball, soccer and volleyball, identifying and tracking the main subject.
Eye-control AF now includes a higher pixel count sensor, enhanced LEDs, a larger eye detection area and an updated detection algorithm. These updates intend to make tracking subjects in complex scenes feel more instinctive and direct.
Image Sensor
The EOS R1 and EOS R5 Mark II have new high-speed back-illuminated stacked image sensors, accelerating shooting speeds and sensor readout and reducing rolling shutter effects. A stacked image sensor has a two-layer structure separating the pixel section, which converts light into electrical signals, from the logic section, which converts and processes the electrical signals as digital information. A back-illuminated stacked design places the photodiodes above the transistor layer to collect light more efficiently. The result is less noise, wide dynamic range and better image quality when shooting action scenes.
The cameras feature a pre-continuous shooting function, recording up to 20 frames (for EOS R1) and 15 frames (for EOS R5 Mark II) in HEIF/JPEG or RAW format at any frame rate before the shutter is pressed. This makes recording the critical moment likelier – even if it was missed.
EOS R1
Other ways the EOS R1 and EOS R5 Mark II take advantage of Deep Learning include in-camera image upscaling and less noise. The noise reduction can increase resolution by up to four times when using JPEG or HEIF formats. Users can crop and upscale in-camera making it simpler to deliver photos without first using separate applications to edit.
Both cameras feature up to 8.5 stops (referring to shutter speed) of image stabilisation performance in the centre of the sensor and 7.5 stops at the edges, [3] and are particularly capable of shooting effectively in low light or under other compromised conditions.
These cameras also have large, high brightness and resolution, blackout-free viewfinders. The EOS R1 features the highest resolution at 9.44M dots and the EOS R5 Mark II has twice the brightness of its predecessor, the EOS R5.
Videography
EOS R1
For videography, the EOS R1 and EOS R5 Mark II can record 12 bit RAW video internally to the memory card and four-channel audio, as well as use Cinema EOS Movie Recording formats with Canon Log 2 and 3 gamma curves. Proxy video recording is now supported between two cards. These features meet professional video production demands, and give users a high level of creative flexibility. The cameras are also able to record high resolution stills and Full HD video simultaneously, with the option to record externally via the HDMI type A ports in both cameras.
Professional Workflows
To support professional workflows, several features are added for fast, stable connectivity and failsafe options. Multiple routes are available to image/video destinations for filing news with support for the C2PA (Coalition for Content Provenance and Authenticity) format, or reviewing the first rushes of a film.
Industry standard file naming, separate photo/video folders and tagging in News ML-G2 standard are also supported. News ML-G2 is a single format for exchanging individual items and packages of text, images, video, audio news and event or sports data, using XML format metadata. Both cameras support Wi-Fi6E/11ax 6GHz in-body, and the EOS R1 also supports 2.5Gbps Ethernet connectivity and dual-threaded FTP in the body and the EOS R5 Mark II can achieve 2.5Gbps Ethernet via an optional grip.
EOS R1
Canon says their development of the EOS R1 was motivated by the fast-paced environment of sports and news photography. It has a new Cross Type AF system, handling challenges such as shooting through a tennis net, picking out smaller subjects and locking on to vertical detail, should horizontal detail be missing from the subject under the AF area. This system depends on a specialised Dual Pixel CMOS AF sensor arrangement that adds autofocus tracking sensitivity along the vertical and horizontal axis of the sensor, and helps capture an image that might previously have been missed.
The camera achieves a silent electronic shutter of up to 40 fps with AF tracking and 20 frames of pre-continuous shooting, meaning that users can accurately follow action without sacrificing image quality. Its 24.2 megapixel resolution delivers extremely high-speed performance, while also achieving up to 96 megapixels in-camera.
Flash synchronisation speeds up to 1/400th of a second, emphasising white balance and image exposure evaluation, produces consistency and gives users scope for working in varied genres. The EOS R1 also supports multiple format and frame rate functionality, including 6K resolution at 60fps or 4K at 120fps, plus Full HD at 240fps.
EOS R5 Mark II
To withstand tough conditions, the EOS R1 has a weather-sealed body, outer texture and integrated vertical grip. A high-resolution EVF with an anti-fog design and a wide viewfinder eyepiece ease the stress of shooting sports over long durations. A two-stage AF-ON button allows users to activate two programmable functions within one button, for rapid response to changing action in front of them.
EOS R5 Mark II
Like EOS R1, the EOS R5 Mark II is designed to capture fast-moving subjects without compromising detail, with multi-media functionality. Its 45 megapixel resolution, autofocus tracking and an electronic shutter capable of up to 30fps with low rolling shutter distortion give users an edge in fast-paced action situations. The camera records 8K 60p resolution from the full width of the sensor and 12-bit RAW recording internally, along with 4K video at up to 120p with sound.
The Cooling Fan Grip CF-R20EP – sold separately – can be used to extend shooting periods for event coverage, interviews and high-quality live streaming. The ability to record video proxies, and use industry-standard file naming and structured folders enhances post-production workflows. Preview and playback navigation also help when shooting footage for virtual reality.
EOS R5 Mark II
The EOS R5 Mark II maintains a compact, lightweight design in a magnesium alloy body, with a very bright, fog-resistant viewfinder, LP-E6P battery and heat-dissipation.
The EOS R1 is scheduled for release in Australia from November 2024, and the EOS R5 Mark II from August 2024. An EOS R5 Mark II Mirrorless camera kit with an RF 24-105mm F/4L IS USM lens will also be available from August. www.canon.com
EOS R5 Mark II
EOS R5 Mark II
