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Canon gets serious about mirrorless with the new EOS M5

Written by Andy Stout | Sep 15, 2016 7:00:00 AM
The new Canon EOS 5M: Canon's first serious mirrorless unit?

Another day, another Canon camera. The company is in a purple patch of releasing new products at the moment and with this one, announced in advance of Photokina next week, it’s finally stepping up to the plate in the mirrorless market.

This is not the first mirrorless camera that Canon has produced, by our count it’s actually the fifth, but it’s the first that looks and feels like a SLR and features a viewfinder. As such, it’s the first that a lot of people will be interested in, a fact that no doubt will be aided and abetted by it’s $979 (body only) price tag and scheduled November release just in time for the Christmas gift buying frenzy.

The M5 camera features a 24.2 Megapixel APS-C sized CMOS sensor, DIGIC 7 image processor and what Canon says is the fastest AF speed yet seen in the EOS M-series thanks to its now almost standard dual-pixel auto-focussing system. ISO runs from 100–25600, while the new Electronic View Finder boasts 2.36 million dots.

Shooting speed is 7fps (9fps with AF lock on) and the unit also combines both optical image stabilisation with 5-axis in-camera digital IS for what the company says is “tremendously smooth video.” Okay, so that’s not mechanical stabilisation, but Canon also says that the DIGIC 7 processor is powerful enough to ensure that IS runs even without lenses that incorporate the technology.

Which of course, brings us to video. You’re limited here in terms of format to 1080p60 in MPEG4, and in terms of shooting ergonomics to a touchscreen that, while it has 1.6million dots, will only tilt 85° up and 180° down. That touchscreen is important elsewhere too though, as it also powers the new Touch & Drag AF feature that lets you manually move the AF frame.

Start-up time is billed as approximately 66% faster than the EOS M3 camera, and not only does the M5 feature the sort of connectivity that is becoming standard in modern camera kit — namely WiFi and NFC — it’s also got something new, Bluetooth Smart, which powers on both paired devices for quick photo sharing and, more interestingly, ramps up the remote control possibilities.

There is also a new lens from the company too, the compact EF-M 18-150mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM which features an 8.3x zoom (29–240mm equivalent), and should go some way towards addressing the dearth of glass in the EF-M line-up so far. Price is $499 but you’ll have to wait till December to be able to pair it with your new M5

Will the EOS M5 set the world on fire? No. But equally it looks to represent something of a game-changer in the recent history of Canon mirrorless units and no-one would be very surprised if there wasn’t something far more powerful and high-end waiting in the wings from the company.

Watch this space. It looks like Photokina could be busy…

Press release over the page.

Canon U.S.A. Introduces the Latest Members of the EOS Family the EOS M5 Digital Camera and its First EF-M High Power Zoom Lens

EOS M5 Camera Provides The Fastest Autofocus (AF) speed of EOS M-Series and a built-in Electronic Viewfinder

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MELVILLE, N.Y., September 15, 2016 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today announced the latest additions to its EOS M series system - the new Canon EOS M5 Interchangeable Lens Digital Camera and compact EF-M 18-150mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM lens. The EOS M5 camera features a 24.2 Megapixel APS-C sized CMOS sensor, DIGIC 7 Image Processor and the fastest AF speed in the EOS M-seriesi, enabling photographers to capture clear, sharp, high-resolution images and Full HD videos. It is also the first in the EOS camera line to include the low energy Bluetooth® Smartii feature that can maintain a constant connectioniii with your compatible smartphone or tablet when you use the Canon camera connect application and both applications are active. The versatile EF-M 18-150mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM lens is compatible with all Canon EOS M series digital cameras, and is a great option for photographers looking to capture scenic landscapes while traveling to close-up shots from afar.
“The new capabilities found in the Canon EOS M5 Camera and EF-M 18-150mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM lens set a new standard for our EOS M series of cameras and lenses, showing that Canon is constantly incorporating performance enhancements desired by our customers,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, president and COO, Canon U.S.A., Inc. “When paired together, the new EOS M5 camera and EF-M 18-150mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM lens provide image-makers of all levels with powerful tools that enable them to capture a variety of remarkable images and videos.”
In addition, advanced photographers will appreciate the improved operability of the EOS M5 camera. It has a built-in electronic viewfinder (EVF) and Canon’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF for capturing stills and shooting video with smooth and precise autofocus. This allows for Touch and Drag AF so users can easily switch the subject of their focus by dragging the AF frame directly on the LCD panel, even while looking through the camera’s EVF. Focus peaking allows users to highlight the area of the image that is in focus from within the EVF or LCD monitor. In addition to its touchscreen operability, the EOS M5 camera also has easily accessible dials that allow you to quickly adjust your settings on-the-go.
Key Features of the Canon EOS M5 Camera Include:
• 24.2 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor, ISO 100–25600.
• Fast and smooth Dual Pixel CMOS AF helps you capture stills and shoot video with quick and precise autofocus.
• High-speed continuous shooting at up to 7.0 fps (up to 9.0 fps with AF Lock) and new DIGIC 7 Image Processor with improved AF tracking performance.
• Full HD 60p helps capture fast-moving subjects and brilliant results in MP4 format.
• Digital IS with 5-axis image stabilizationivwhen shooting movies plus increased image stabilization with both lens optical IS and in-camera digital IS when shooting with an IS lens.
• Built-in high-resolution EVF (approx. 2,360,000 dots) with new Touch and Drag AF lets you manually move the AF frame displayed for more precise focusing in different shooting situations.
• Intuitive touch screen 3.2 tilt-type (85° up/180° down) LCD monitor (approx. 1,620,000 dots) enables flexible positioning and clear viewing.
• Easily customize functions while shooting using the Main Dial, Quick Control Dial, Dial Function Button and Exposure Compensation Dial.
• Built-in Wi-Fi®v and NFCvi allows for easy sharing and transferring of images and videos.
• Equipped with Bluetooth®iii Smart for smooth pairing with a compatible smartphone by powering on both devices for easy photo sharing and remote control possibilities.
• Shorter camera startup timevii and interval time between each image capture for a more efficient shooting experience.
• Compatible with EF-M lenses as well as the full line of EFviii and EF-Sviii lenses and Speedlites for expanded creativity.
The Canon EOS M5 also features Combination IS with in-camera 5-axis image stabilization, while capturing video, a first in the Canon EOS series. With a compatible lens attachediv, Combination IS leverages optical IS and in-camera digital IS to help create tremendously smooth videos. The DIGIC 7 Image Processor makes the 5-axis IS possible even with lenses that do not contain IS, because the in-camera image stabilization functions independently to help reduce camera shake when shooting videos.
Additionally, the EOS M5 camera shoots impressive time-lapse videos. The EOS M5 camera also allows for easy panning by setting the optimal shutter speed after analyzing the camera's panning speed and how fast the subject is moving.
The new Canon EF-M 18-150mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM lens offers a high-zoom ratio, expanding the range of photographic possibilities for EOS M digital cameras. Its image stabilizer helps with reducing image blur and making image and video shooting easier at longer focal lengths. Along with the enhanced performance, the EF-M 18-150mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM lens is compact and lightweight, making it a versatile and convenient lens to carry.
Key Features of the Canon EF-M 18-150mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM Lens Include:
• Canon’s first EF-M high-zoom power lens covering a broad range of shooting scenes with a high-zoom ratio of up to 8.3x (29–240mm equivalent).
• Compact and lightweight design allows for easy portability.
• Optical design helps provide excellent image quality across a broad zoom range comparable to the EF-S 18–135mm f/3.5–5.6 IS USM lens.
• Maximum magnification of 0.31x at focal length 150mm.
• Image Stabilizer effect at up to 4ixstops of shake correction helps capture sharp images.
Pricing and Availability
The new Canon EOS M5 camera is scheduled to be available through authorized Canon dealers or through the Canon Online store at http://shop.usa.canon.com/ in November 2016, for an estimated retail price of $979.99 for the body only. It will also be sold as part of body-and-lens kits with EF-M 15-45mm/F3.5-6.3 IS STM zoom kit lens (estimated retail price of $1,099.00, scheduled to be available early November 2016x), and with the new EF-M 18-150mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM lens for an (estimated retail price of $1,479.00x, scheduled to be available early December 2016x)
In addition, the new Canon EF-M 18-150mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM lens, available in graphite and silver colors, is scheduled to be available in December 2016 for an estimated retail price of $499.99x.
Additional optional EOS accessories include a Body Jacket (EM-E2) and Neck Strap (EH29-CJ) that come in black or brown.
For more information please visit: http://mseriescameras.usa.canon.com

i Based on Canon’s testing standards. (Measured according to CIPA guidelines. EFM 15-45mm F3.5-6.3 STM lens is used.)
ii Compatible with select smartphone and tablet devices (AndroidTM version 5.0 or later and the following iOS® devices: iPhone 4s or later, iPad 3rd gen. or later, iPod Touch 5th gen. or later) equipped with Bluetooth® version 4.0 or later and the Camera Connect App Ver. 1.3.20 or above. This application is not guaranteed to operate on all listed devices, even if minimum requirements are met.
iii When applications are active. Switch from Bluetooth® Smart to Wi-Fi® when viewing the images on the camera via the compatible smartphone.
iv Maximum image stabilization is achieved when using either the EF-M 18–150mm f/3.5–6.3 IS STM or the EF-M 15–45mm f/3.5–6.3 IS STM with the lens firmware update.
v Compatible with iOS® versions 8.0/8.1/8.2/8.3/8.4/9.0/9.1/9.2/9.3, Android™ smartphone and tablet versions 4.1/4.2/4.3/4.4/5.0/5.1/6.0. Data charges may apply with the download of the free Canon Camera Connect app. This app helps enable you to upload images to social media services. Please note that image files may contain personally identifiable information that may implicate privacy laws. Canon disclaims and has no responsibility for your use of such images. Canon does not obtain, collect or use such images or any information included in such images through this app.
vi Compatible with Android™ smartphone and tablet versions 4.0/4.1/4.2/4.3/4.4/5.0/5.1/6.0.
vii Approximately 66% faster than the EOS M3 camera.
viii Mount Adapter EF-EOS M is required when using EF/EF-S lenses for EOS M series digital cameras.
ix Measured at the focal length of 150mm (35mm equivalent of 360mm), using the EOS M3 digital camera based upon CIPA (Camera & Imaging Products Association) standards.
x Availability, prices and specifications are subject to change without notice. Actual prices are set by individual dealers and may vary.

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 to the United States and to Latin America and the Caribbean (excluding Mexico) markets. With approximately $31 billion in global revenue, its parent company, Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ), ranks third overall in U.S. patents granted in 2015† and is one of Fortune Magazine's World's Most Admired Companies in 2016. Canon U.S.A. is committed to the highest level 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. In 2014, the Canon Americas Headquarters secured LEED® Gold certification, a recognition for the design, construction, operations and maintenance of high-performance green buildings. 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 and follow us on Twitter @CanonUSA. For media inquiries, please contact pr@cusa.canon.com.
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† Based on weekly patent counts issued by United States Patent and Trademark Office.
All referenced product names, and other marks, are trademarks of their respective owners.
1 Based on Canon’s testing standards. (Measured according to CIPA guidelines. EFM 15-45mm F3.5-6.3 STM lens is used.)
1 Compatible with select smartphone and tablet devices (AndroidTM version 5.0 or later and the following iOS® devices: iPhone 4s or later, iPad 3rd gen. or later, iPod Touch 5th gen. or later) equipped with Bluetooth® version 4.0 or later and the Camera Connect App Ver. 1.3.20 or above. This application is not guaranteed to operate on all listed devices, even if minimum requirements are met.
1 When applications are active. Switch from Bluetooth® Smart to Wi-Fi® when viewing the images on the camera via the compatible smartphone.
1 Maximum image stabilization is achieved when using either the EF-M 18–150mm f/3.5–6.3 IS STM or the EF-M 15–45mm f/3.5–6.3 IS STM with the lens firmware update.
1 Compatible with iOS® versions 8.0/8.1/8.2/8.3/8.4/9.0/9.1/9.2/9.3, Android™ smartphone and tablet versions 4.1/4.2/4.3/4.4/5.0/5.1/6.0. Data charges may apply with the download of the free Canon Camera Connect app. This app helps enable you to upload images to social media services. Please note that image files may contain personally identifiable information that may implicate privacy laws. Canon disclaims and has no responsibility for your use of such images. Canon does not obtain, collect or use such images or any information included in such images through this app.
1 Compatible with Android™ smartphone and tablet versions 4.0/4.1/4.2/4.3/4.4/5.0/5.1/6.0.
1 Approximately 66% faster than the EOS M3 camera.
1 Mount Adapter EF-EOS M is required when using EF/EF-S lenses for EOS M series digital cameras.
1 Measured at the focal length of 150mm (35mm equivalent of 360mm), using the EOS M3 digital camera based upon CIPA (Camera & Imaging Products Association) standards.
1 Availability, prices and specifications are subject to change without notice. Actual prices are set by individual dealers and may vary.

i Based on Canon’s testing standards. (Measured according to CIPA guidelines. EFM 15-45mm F3.5-6.3 STM lens is used.)
ii Compatible with select smartphone and tablet devices (AndroidTM version 5.0 or later and the following iOS® devices: iPhone 4s or later, iPad 3rd gen. or later, iPod Touch 5th gen. or later) equipped with Bluetooth® version 4.0 or later and the Camera Connect App Ver. 1.3.20 or above. This application is not guaranteed to operate on all listed devices, even if minimum requirements are met.
iii When applications are active. Switch from Bluetooth® Smart to Wi-Fi® when viewing the images on the camera via the compatible smartphone.
iv Maximum image stabilization is achieved when using either the EF-M 18–150mm f/3.5–6.3 IS STM or the EF-M 15–45mm f/3.5–6.3 IS STM with the lens firmware update.
v Compatible with iOS® versions 8.0/8.1/8.2/8.3/8.4/9.0/9.1/9.2/9.3, Android™ smartphone and tablet versions 4.1/4.2/4.3/4.4/5.0/5.1/6.0. Data charges may apply with the download of the free Canon Camera Connect app. This app helps enable you to upload images to social media services. Please note that image files may contain personally identifiable information that may implicate privacy laws. Canon disclaims and has no responsibility for your use of such images. Canon does not obtain, collect or use such images or any information included in such images through this app.
vi Compatible with Android™ smartphone and tablet versions 4.0/4.1/4.2/4.3/4.4/5.0/5.1/6.0.
vii Approximately 66% faster than the EOS M3 camera.
viii Mount Adapter EF-EOS M is required when using EF/EF-S lenses for EOS M series digital cameras.
ix Measured at the focal length of 150mm (35mm equivalent of 360mm), using the EOS M3 digital camera based upon CIPA (Camera & Imaging Products Association) standards.
x Availability, prices and specifications are subject to change without notice. Actual prices are set by individual dealers and may vary.