Canon to update Cinema EOS and release new kits

Cinema EOS firmware updates will add color control and shooting features by December; Camera Control Center for Windows will launch in January 2027. Canon has introduced EOS C50/C80 kits with RF lenses.

Canon to update Cinema EOS firmware and introduce lens kits

On the 15th anniversary of the Cinema EOS system, which began with the launch of the Canon 5D Mark II with Full HD video recording, the company announced new firmware for its cinema cameras and equipment kits. The updates are for the EOS C400, C80, C50, and R5 C. According to Canon, they are designed to help address production challenges in filmmaking, live streaming, and virtual production environments.

Color matching across multiple cameras

Multi Matrix Color Axis Control will be added to the Cinema EOS lineup. When working with multiple cameras, it can be difficult to match color profiles and achieve consistent color reproduction. The new feature will let operators and engineers adjust the phase and gain of individual color axes, remotely or directly through a dedicated camera menu.

Canon gives the example of a multicamera broadcast: operators will be able to quickly match footage from the EOS C400, C80, and C50 to cameras already set up in the studio, without interrupting the production.

More shooting options

In Slow & Fast mode, which is designed for high-frame-rate recording, the new firmware will expand autofocus availability. It will work, among other settings, at 72, 75, 90, and 96 frames per second. When shooting at these frame rates, operators often have to give up certain features, such as real-time audio monitoring or autofocus subject tracking. The updates will also add external audio signal output via SDI and HDMI.

On the EOS C400, C80, and C50, the sensor mode will be switchable using an assignable function button. This will make it possible to change the angle of view without changing lenses, for example, by quickly switching from full-frame mode to a cropped mode. The EOS C400 features a 6K full-frame sensor.

The EOS C50 will gain a 1/8000 sec shutter speed, providing more exposure control in bright conditions. The camera will also support an external flash in photo mode.

Camera control via an app

Canon is developing the free Camera Control Center app for PTZ cameras, select Pro Video models, and Cinema EOS cameras. The app will offer tools for controlling multiple cameras and devices, among other features.

The company said the app will launch first for Windows, followed by a macOS version. The launch schedule also lists January 2027 for Windows. Cinema EOS camera firmware updates are planned for release by December.

Cinema EOS kits with RF lenses

Canon U.S.A. Inc. has announced new Cinema EOS Lens Kits and the EOS C50 Videographer Kit. The Cinema EOS kits will include an EOS C50 or EOS C80 camera and an RF lens designed for video production.

The EOS C50 with the RF 20-50mm f/4L IS USM PZ lens will cost $5,098. The EOS C80 kit with the same lens is priced at $7,048. Another kit, priced at $5,098, pairs the EOS C50 with the RF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM.

The EOS C50 Videographer Kit includes the C50 camera, RF 20-50mm f/4L IS USM PZ lens, Azden SGM-250LX-C shotgun microphone, Azden MH-787-C headphones, a 67mm Hoya Variable Neutral Density II filter, and two-year CarePak Pro coverage. The kit costs $5,999. Compared with buying the camera and lens kit separately, customers pay an additional $900 for the microphone, headphones, filter, and extended service coverage.