Canon has unveiled the EOS C50, a revolutionary compact cinema camera poised to redefine the landscape for both professional filmmakers and social media creators. Weighing a mere 1.5 pounds, this powerhouse packs a surprising punch, boasting a full-frame sensor capable of capturing stunning 7K 60p internal RAW video. Its versatility extends beyond its impressive resolution, offering simultaneous widescreen and vertical recording – a game-changer for content creators aiming to conquer multiple platforms. This innovative feature, combined with its professional-grade features and surprisingly affordable price point, makes the C50 a truly compelling option in the ever-evolving world of filmmaking and content creation.
The EOS C50’s small size belies its impressive capabilities. At its heart is a full-frame CMOS sensor, delivering exceptional image quality even in low-light conditions, thanks to its dual ISO system. This system works in conjunction with Canon Log 2 (C-Log 2) to produce stunning results at ISO 800 and 6400. Furthermore, the camera supports a range of recording formats, including 12-bit Cinema RAW Light at up to 7K 60p and RAW HQ at 7K 30p, ensuring maximum flexibility for post-production. The inclusion of 3:2 open gate recording allows for seamless conversion to other aspect ratios, a feature previously lacking in Canon’s cinema cameras.
A key innovation is Canon’s simultaneous crop recording. This allows users shooting in 4K to simultaneously output 2K video in various vertical formats (9:17, 9:16, or 1:1), ideal for quick uploads to platforms like TikTok and Instagram. This feature alone streamlines the workflow significantly for creators needing to cater to different social media platforms. This is further complemented by Canon’s renowned Dual Pixel autofocus system and AI subject tracking, ensuring consistently sharp focus on your subject, whether it’s a person or an animal.
Beyond its social media-friendly features, the C50 retains the professional features expected from Canon’s Cinema line. This includes two full-size XLR audio inputs (via an optional top handle), a zoom rocker, waveform/peaking displays, and C-Log 3 support. The inclusion of SD-UHS II and CFexpress slots provides ample storage options, and the time code terminal facilitates seamless integration into larger productions. While it lacks in-body image stabilization, the reliance on optical lens and electronic stabilization delivers reasonably stable footage.
The Canon EOS C50 isn’t just a video camera. It also excels as a stills camera, capable of capturing 32MP photos and burst shooting at up to 40fps. This makes it a true hybrid, eliminating the need for separate equipment for photography and videography. To further enhance its versatility, Canon introduced the RF 85mm F/1.4 L VCM Hybrid Lens, specifically designed for portrait shooting, underscoring Canon’s commitment to providing a comprehensive ecosystem for its new camera. Additionally, Canon also launched an updated version of its Elpha 360 HS compact camera, the Elpha 360 HS A, with a microSD slot for increased convenience.
The Canon EOS C50 represents a significant leap forward in compact cinema cameras, blending professional-grade features with user-friendly design and social media integration. Its simultaneous recording capability, coupled with its high-resolution sensor and extensive codec options, sets a new standard for versatility. While the lack of in-body stabilization might be a drawback for some, the overall package – including its robust feature set, impressive image quality, and competitive price point – makes the C50 a highly compelling option for both professional and aspiring filmmakers, and social media content creators alike. With its availability slated for late 2025, the Canon EOS C50 promises to be a game-changer in the industry.
