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The Canon EOS 5Ds is a Dream for Photographers (but a Bust for Filmmakers)

Caleb Ward
Published: Last Updated:

Canon has announced two large megapixel cameras with fantastic features. Photographers are sure to love the 5Ds but it may leave filmmakers and video pros feeling underwhelmed.

Just as expected, Canon has announced two high megapixel DSLRs, two consumer level DSLRs, a mirrorless camera, and a new ultra-wide angle lens. In this article we will focus on the two high-end DSLR releases, the EOS 5DS and the EOS 5DS R.

The Canon EOS 5DS & EOS 5DS R

The EOS 5DS and 5DS R have similar specs. We’ll explore the differences below.

The new Canon EOS 5DS is a feature-filled camera designed for professional photographers. The camera features a 50.6MP CMOS sensor that allows users to shoot gigantic images suitable for large-prints and dynamic cropping. This is accomplished using Dual DIGIC 6 Image Processors which can handle a high amount of pixel information.

Canon 5DS Back

The camera has a 61-point High Density Reticular AF sensor – meaning the autofocus is incredibly accurate. Another great feature introduced in this camera is the ability to choose your crop factor. Users have the ability to shoot at full frame, 1.3x crop, and 1.6x crop. Shooting with a cropped image won’t yield 50.6 MP image, but it will allow you to get more versatile results without having to change out your lens.

One of the more interesting features is anti-flicker component designed to help your camera get consistent exposures…even when shooting under flickering lights. The camera also includes a built-in intervalometer allowing users to shoot time-lapse photos and videos without having to use an external device.

Canon 5DS Top

The Difference Between the Canon EOS 5DS and the 5DS R

The main difference between the 5DS and the 5DS R is that the 5DS R has the low-pass filter taken out to increase sharpness. This may or may not be a good thing (depending on your photographic preferences). For example, if you shoot a lot of video or street photography you probably want a low-pass filter on your camera so you don’t have to worry about annoying phenomenon like Mioré. But if shoot a lot of product photography or landscape photography you might want to get the low-pass filter removed so that you can get the sharpest image possible. It depends on your personal preference.

If you’re debating between the two models check out this release video from Canon. Tip off to this video from FStoppers: ‘Is The Canon EOS 5Ds or 5Ds R Right For You?’:

The (Minimal) Video Functions

While this Canon announcement might be great for photographers, videographers and filmmakers will be disappointed. The 5DS can only record 1080p video at 30 frames per second. It can do 60fps at 720p…but that’s practically useless for filmmaking and commercial work. Maybe there will be added frame rate support in a future firmware release, but for the time being the 5DS looks like a bust for the video crowd.

The Canon EOS 5DS & EOS 5DS R Specs

  Sensor   CMOS, 36 x 24 mm
  Crop Factor   1.0x, 1.3x and 1.6x optional crop factor
  Sensitivity Range   100-6400, Extended Mode up to 12800
  Burst Shooting   5 fps
  Viewfinder   Optical
  Autofocus   Yes, 61-Point
  Shutter Speed   1/8000 to 30 Seconds
  Storage Media   SD, SDHC, SDXC, CF
  Flash   None
  Image Stabilization   None, In-Lens Only
  Video   1080p @ 30fps, 720p @ 60fps
  Video Output   None
  Display Screen   3.2″ 1,040K-Dot ClearView II LCD Monitor
  Battery   LP-E6N
  Lens Mount   Canon EF

Pricing and Availability

The Canon EOS 5DS has the initial retail cost of $3,699 and the 5DS R will retail for $3,899. Both are set to be released in June of 2015.

What do you think of these new cameras? Share in the comments below.

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