Video Camera News

Budding digital filmmakers have a new tool to consider: the Canon EOS C100 Mark II. The C100 Mark II, as its name suggests, is the second generation of Canon’s lower-end, professional Super 35mm 8.3-megapixel cinema cameras.

The key new features for the C100 II include 1080p HD recording at 60 frames per second in AVCHD and MP4, Dual Pixel CMOS Autofocus (AF), Face-Detection AF, and an upgraded viewfinder and OLED panel.

The C100 II also features a built-in Canon Log Look-Up Table and wireless file transfer. As with the previous model, the C100 II looks like a cross between a camcorder and a digital SLR, and is relatively lightweight, tipping the scales at just 2.5 pounds. The video camera is compatible with over 103 Canon EF Series lenses, including STM models, designed to deliver smooth and quiet AF during shooting.

The C100 II uses the same Super 35mm CMOS Sensor (24.6 x 13.8 mm) as its predecessor. The camera body has been slightly redesigned from that model though and now features a detachable eyecup to help see the camera’s 68-degree tilting 0.45-inch 1.23 megapixel color EVF (electronic viewfinder).

The C100 II also features red trigger buttons on the camera body, top handle, and grip. It has a built-in mono microphone on the camera body, for use when the top handle is not attached. The mic is designed to capture basic sound for audio notation, or it can be used to help with audio syncing during post-production.

Also added to the C100 II is a hinged 3.5-inch 1.23 megapixel OLED display panel with 100 percent field-of-view coverage, wide color range support, designed to offer better viewing even in bright sunshine. The new hinge design folds the panel shut when stowed to protect the OLED surface. It can open to a 180-degree angle to reveal function keys and a joystick. You can also adjust the panel open to 270 degrees to lie flat against the side of the camera, offering  monitoring for directors and other production personnel.

Other design tweaks include 17 assignable recessed function buttons, dual SD card slots with a transparent cover, and an easier battery insertion and removal release.

The Canon C100 Mark II is targeted toward documentary filmmakers and wedding and event videographers, indie film productions, and for film schools and business and government users. It goes on sale in December 2014 for $5,500.