Canon 1D Mk4 (EOS-1D MkIV)
replacement for the 1D Mk3

5th February

>> Latest Info

Collected information about the replacement for the EOS 1D Mk3
Page is being updated with reviews/sample images as we find them.

16.1 megapixel APS-H CMOS Sensor
Dual DiG!C 4 Image Processors
14-bit A/D colour conversion
ISO 100-12800 (L:50, H1: 25600, H2: 51200,H3: 102400)
CF+SDHC

1D Mark 4 Information and news

**Updated as we find it**

1D4 Info on this page

Product info (US)
UK press Info
US press Info
Product info (Australia)
1D3/1D4 quick comparison
Technologies explained
1D MkIV white paper - [PDF]

1D4 Sample Images

Canon
Cnet - DPI - Images removed
Flkr - Pre-production images
Unwire - Samples and video
Pic - Samples
Sample RAW files
CS#1 | CS#2 ISO performance
Imaging Resource
- Samples. All ISO and RAW
> PB A D3s/1D4 noise test

Info on the web

Canon Specs (US)
Canon Specs (Australia)
Canon HK Press Release
Canon 1D4 manual
Canon (Europe) info
Photoscala (German)
Rob Galbraith
Canon 'first look' videos
DPR | PDN | IR
CT | AP | BA
Canon SA Youtube video from Canon South Africa about 7D and 1D4 well worth viewing.
FM Running man pics | DPR - some dogs
SportsShooter Suggested 1D4 settings (check accuracy though)
> Canon 1D4 firmware update

(Previews) Reviews

DPI (p) | CFR (p) | EPZ (p) | EPG (p)
PL - (p) | SS (p)
JA - Popular wedding shooter takes one for a short spin - -updated
DNS - Dan Chung tries out the 1D4
PM Trying out a pre-release camera at a US Football game
KB Quick 1D3/4/5D2/D3s test [Google xlation from Swedish]
> JGP
> Photoreview Lots of testing

Video

Vince L info at ProLost
Canon
Unwire - Samples and video
> Samples from Sydney

Technical Info

Full Specifications
Canon Article about AF system
AF Microadjustment
- article on this site with test image
New Wireless options
Canon technical article at CPN

Latest Info

2010 February

• 5th Samples from 1D4/D3s at PB
• 4th Some comprehensive testing at Photoreview
• 2nd I hear that at one point yesterday, Park Cameras (UK) had 50 in stock... well, 49, since the person who told me [thanks] just had one.

January

• 30th A thumbs up for the new firmware from a basketball shooter DPR
• Also a review and some comparions with other cameras at JGP
• 29th Stocks seem to be flowing much better - we've had several reports of US suppliers such as Adorama having stock.
• 28th Firmware update now available to V1.0.6

• 27th Some suggested settings at SS Note, I've been told that this has errors for screen 4
• 25th A very full set of samples (inc RAW) at Imaging Resource
• 22nd There will shortly be a firmware update available to V1.0.6
• Due later this month
• "Firmware Version 1.0.6 enhances the AF tracking performance of the EOS-1D Mark IV for receding subjects and for subjects that are approaching at a low speed."
• 19th We hear (thanks) of recent stock in stores in China (~$4800) altough a current shortage pushed the price up to ~$5260.

Anything whatsoever you order from Amazon helps us run our site - thanks to everyone who has purchased items, however small.
Amazon UK link / Amazon France / Amazon Germany
Amazon USA link / Amazon Canada link

• 16th More comments pointing to stock in UK stores. Quite a few UK backorders seem to have been fulfilled in the last few days.
• 15th UK stores are receiving deliveries - we're told (thanks) of one sitting in Jacobs store in Manchester this lunchtime :-)
• It shouldn't be long before we see some much more in depth reviews...
• 14th Some review comments at a Swedish site [Google Xlt]
• 12th Cameras start appearing at more dealers - B&H in the US had some (for a while).
• 8th A new version of the wireless unit and some sample video from Sydney at New Year.
• 6th Limited supplies of cameras are starting to appear - we've heard of a few smaller stores receiving deliveries and people getting cameras after ringing around.
• As expected (I should have known better) some of the internet doomsayers have already decided that yesterday's comment indicates that the 1D4 is no good - I merely took it as indicating that Canon were being careful about quality control.

• 5th In a sign of how much Canon want early adopters to get a properly working camera, we hear (thanks) of a UK shipment sent for distribution (-not- to customers), but recalled for further testing before being allowed for delivery.
• Not surprising given the widespread feeling that Canon dropped the ball on the 1D3 (although to be fair, I was contacted by several 1D3 owners saying how good they found the camera, as well as those with focus issues)
• 2nd A report that cameras are indeed shipping in North America [RG]
• 1st Happy new year to everone, and for those waiting for their 1D4 - hope it turns up soon!
• A Swedish magazine tries out a quick 1D3/4/5D2/D3s test

2009 December

• 31st Some cameras start turning up in the US and a sports photographer comments on the 1D4 [PM]
• 28th At last, Vince Laforet, gets his 1D4 film back in view - info at ProLost
• A Danish photographer writes up some notes [Google Xlt] on a pre-production 1D4
• 27th The Australian photographer in the FM thread below needs somewhere to host all the sample images - we've not got the bandwidth here I'm afraid.
• Now sorted - see FM
• Samples and reviews from production cameras start to appear
• 26th The first test of AI servo with an Australian 1D4 looks good [FM]
• After the 1D3 issues, expect to see a lot of such testing...
• We hear of UK stock, but at ~£4300, the camera was declined...
• 23rd We hear (thanks) from one lucky new owner in Melbourne ~£3450 at current exchange rates (A$6250-A$6350 inc 10% GST tax - Melbourne prices)
• Any reviews we find, of actual shipping cameras will be added to the list above - we're expecting a rush of blog posts as people try out their Christmas presents, or look for reasons to avoid visiting relatives.
• Sample RAW files added above
• 22nd Cameras start appearing [DPR]
• 19th In Hong Kong the MSRP for the 1D Mk IV is HK 36,980, which is about US$4,780. More 1D4 pics appearing [Fkr]
• 18th Some sample images and video appear on a Hong Kong site [Unwire]
• If you look on eBay, a HK dealer claims to have stock... (auction closes in 6 days, so maybe they'll have it by then ;-)
• 17th Ready for Christmas? According to Canon in Hong Kong, there will be cameras (and WFT-E2 II A) available in Hong Kong on the 23rd [Canon PR - PDF]
• 16th Dan Chung tries out the 1D4 [DNS]
• 15th B&H tell a US caller 'after Christmas' for the 1D4, whilst a Canadian pro store is saying 'Early January - at the earliest'.
• We also hear that the Winter Olympics is causing a run on the D3s :-)
• 14th Third week of December arrives and we've heard nothing new about shipping. With the winter olympics (start Feb 12th) coming up, I suspect the large photo agencies will have stock before long.
• 12th A caller at B&H is told that deliveries are likely to be after Christmas - some UK dealers agree [DPR]
• 10th 8 days to go? Amazon Japan have the 18th listed as the arrival date.
• 9th According to some dealer reports we've heard, Canon missed their start of December ship date for the first 1D mk4s, which means that sending on to dealers in the second week of December looks shaky, Canon were not giving any new ship date.
• FYI I've now finished several short reports on aspects of the 7D.
• 1st I'm told (thanks) that the 1D4 briefly appeared in stock at Amazon - no sign of it when I looked...
• Also, I hear that a Pro retailer in Canada is saying that Canon is going to give priority on CPS cameras to [Winter] Olympic shooters, and they are checking.
• Meantime, Canon have lent me a 7D for a few days. I'll add some more coments to the blog later.

November

• 30th Signs of a UK price drop? I've heard reports of cameras at £4k rather than £4.5k
• 29th Quite a few 1D4 cameras are being tested in the field. We're told (thanks) that 3 Getty photographers were using mk4 bodies at the England v All Blacks rugby. One of the same photographers was using the camera at the Liverpool champions league football match in Budapest, and another at the Wales v Australia rugby match - no comments on performance however ;-)
• We also hear (thanks) of expected deliveries in Switzerland in the second week of December.
• 28th A Norwegian dealer expects some 1D4 bodies by December 14th.
• 27th CPN Technical article (see above)
• 26th After asking round a bit, the only solid info we had for any cameras in the UK was a 3rd week in December estimate. That was with a low degree of confidence too...
• Happy Thanksgiving to visitors and friends from the US :-)
• 24th Most quick 'previews' being posted (see above). Cameras still very much R&D versions.
• However the JA notes have been updated with more detail and some images
• 22nd We're told of someone with an order at Amazon.com who's delivery date has gone for 'After Christmas' to December 20th.
• 13th Canon release 1D MkIV white paper - useful background read [PDF]
• BTW Just tried Using the iPhone as a remote camera control with a Canon WFT-E2
• 12th We're hearing 'earlier' in December for availability and that big customers in Australia have been told to look at Aus$8k for a starting price.
• There is also a new Canon Australia price list on its way with significant reductions in the 5D2 and 1Ds3 prices.
• 11th 1D4 manual is available for download - link above.
• Making use of an iPhone for a commercial photographer? We've just won one and I'm curious as to using it - any comments/suggestions welcome (via the blog)
• 6th Several people have wondered about the lack of sample images/reviews. The word from Canon is that the camera is indeed still scheduled for release some 60 days after the announcement, but that until they have production firmware and cameras, they will not be released for editorial review purposes.
• However the 1D4 is already being tested in use with some big agencies - we've not found any examples yet, but it's worth checking EXIF data, if you have access to any recent images ;-)
• 3rd More people pick up a 1D4 and describe it, but no actual usage

2009 October

• 30th Not much news anywhere that we've seen...
• Well, I got to fire off a burst of shots with a 1D4 at the Canon show in London. Unfortunately, with no card in the camera (taped up) I was unable to test the AF or see what 102k looked like, even after I'd gone into the menus and set it to H3.
• So, what did it feel like? Ever so slightly lighter than my 1Ds3 (just a 'feel' - I didn't have it there with me) Much better screen on the back, and, of course, focus points spread out over more of the frame (I've never used a 'crop' dslr). It's a 1 series - it 'feels' like others I've used, which is a 'good thing' IMHO :-)
• It's solidly aimed at people who will use it as a tool for work - that's the market for it. If you see people on the forums, rich enough to buy one, but complaining about lack of FF or 7D whistles and bells, just remember Canon's target market.
• BTW I believe Canon currently has 7 Mk4s in the UK - 5 were at the show :-)
• 25th A few images still doing the rounds [CR] - I'm off to the big Canon show in London next Wednesday, so I'll see what there is to see ;-)
• Interesting video from about 7D/1D4Canon SA
• 24th A set of images at different ISO values appears on Flkcr. CFR 'review' added above. Deja Vu for Vince L, who says that his 1D4 video will be back...
• 23rd It seems that Canon have done a good job of finding and removing most unauthorised sample images. We have some I found, but after having a chat with Canon UK a couple of times yesterday, I'm inclined to wait for some official ones ;-)
• My own opinion (from looking at samples) is 6400 would be fine for a lot of my own commercial work, whilst 12800 reminds me of 1250 on my old 1Ds. 25k, and 52k might do for some, but 102k ... well I look forward to trying it with a camera with the final firmware and RAW support.
• 22nd It seems that Canon have taken exception to unauthorised sample images - all the ones we found have been pulled from sites.
• Arthur Morris at BPN#1, #2 tried a 1D4 and likes the AF - There's also a set of shots from one of the Far East launch events at CT (sample pics now gone too)
• 21st More updates added above (marked >), including the useful 1D4 technologies explained section below.
• Fixed URLs

2009 October 20th Camera announced.

We'll add new stuff to this page as we find it.

New wireless unit and firmware update notice is also announced for the 5D2

Video covers quite a range of options

1080p: 1920 x 1080 pixels at 30fps (actually 29.97fps)
1080p: 1920 x 1080 pixels at 25fps
1080p: 1920 x 1080 pixels at 24fps (actually 23.976fps)
720p: 1280 x 720 pixels at 60fps (actually 59.94fps)
720p: 1280 x 720 pixels at 50fps
SD: 640 x 480 pixels at 60fps (actually 59.94fps)
SD: 640 x 480 pixels at 50fps

AF changes with AI Servo II

Stable lens drive: In normal operation, the AI Servo algorithm makes calculations, and based on these results, instructs the lens to change focus position. Now, if the algorithm gets two results one after the other that are very different - for example, the subject changed direction rapidly and was not where the system expected it to be - this calculation is ignored and the system waits to instruct the lens until two results match. This means that errors generated no longer cause the lens to jump unexpectedly out of focus. Secure focus tracking of a subject: If an obstacle is detected or if the AF point is not kept over the subject, tracking continues based on the last known trajectory result immediately before the interruption.

Moderate lens drive: If there is a radical change in focus distance, the lens is not driven straight to that value. It is slowly taken there based on past prediction results. This means that if a photographer drifts off the subject to the background for an extended period of time, the lens will not snap focus straight to the background. This in turn means that if the photographer gets the AF point back onto the subject that the lens is able to achieve sharp focus much more quickly.

Predictive control with quick response: The system is now able to achieve predictive focus immediately as the subject starts moving and there is no delay before it can start tracking.

US Info (from Canon)

Offering a comprehensive combination of speed, accuracy and image quality, the EOS-1D Mark IV is the perfect choice for professional photographers and subjects on the move.

With a completely redesigned 45-point AF system including 39 cross-type points, a new AI Servo II AF focus tracking system with improved algorithm combined with 10 fps continuous shooting, the EOS-1D Mark IV can handle even high-speed situations with ease.

An APS-H sized 16.1 Megapixel CMOS Sensor, Dual DIGIC 4 Image Processors, a spectacular ISO range of 100 - 12800 (up to 102400 in H3 mode) with an advanced noise reduction system helps ensure sharp, low-noise images even in low-light situations.

Add advanced Live View shooting, Full HD movie recording with selectable frame rates and manual exposure control plus a host of new features that enhance every facet of the shooting process.

The EOS-1D Mark IV is the choice of professionals looking for the ultimate in SLR performance.

Features

New 45-point Area AF sensor including 39 cross-type AF points with f/2.8 support plus new AI Servo II AF with improved algorithm.

ISO 100 - 12800 (expandable to L: 50, H1: 25600, H2: 51200, H3: 102400) for shooting from bright to dim light with low noise levels.

EOS HD movie with manual exposure control and multiple frame rates (1080: 30p (29.97) / 24p (23.976) / 25p, 720: 60p (59.94) / 50p, 480: 60p (59.94) / 50p).

16.1 Megapixel APS-H CMOS sensor and Dual DIGIC 4 Image Processors for high image quality and speed.

10.0 fps continuous shooting up to 121 Large JPEGS or 28 RAW using a UDMA CF card.

3.0-inch ClearView II LCD monitor, 160° viewing angle, 920,000-dot VGA, reflection resistance with multi coating and high-transparency materials for bright and clear viewing.

Magnesium alloy body with shutter durability up to 300,000 cycles and exclusive dust- and weather-resistance.

Fully compatible with over 50 EF lenses and a wide range of EOS System accessories.

Professionally Proven, High-Speed AF.

New 45-point Area AF sensor including 39 cross-type AF points with f/2.8 support plus new AI Servo II AF with improved algorithm.

The EOS-1D Mark IV has a newly developed, high-precision Area AF sensor with 45 manually selectable points including 39 cross-type, high-precision AF points for exacting and fast focusing no matter the subject. New AI Servo II AF focus tracking features improved algorithms that help improve stability, reliability and focus no matter the situation.

Whether shooting a fast-paced soccer game or shooting a close-up of a bee on a wind-blown flower during macro photography, AI Servo II AF helps ensure sharp focus every time. AF point selection has been improved as well.

Photographers can select their own point through either the camera’s Multi-controller or Main Dial/Quick Control Dial. Automatic selection is as simple as the press of a button.

With Custom functions, photographers can select their own default focus point to automatically switch between horizontal and vertical shooting and can even choose to have primary focus supported by adjacent focus points for more accuracy with moving subjects.

UK Press Info

London, 20 October 2009 – Canon today announces the launch of the new EOS-1D Mark IV – a high-speed, professional Digital SLR (DSLR) camera designed to empower photographers to capture split-second moments in high resolution, under the most challenging of conditions. Ideal for shooting action, sports, news events and wildlife photography, the Canon EOS-1D Mark IV delivers speed, power and high-resolution images, creating the perfect camera for photographers who require reliability in fast-paced, high-pressure situations.

Developed incorporating feedback from professional photographers, the EOS-1D Mark IV features a new Canon 16.1MP APS-H CMOS sensor and a brand new 45-point Auto Focus (AF) system with 39 f/2.8 sensitive cross-type points, providing a wide selection of precise focus areas across the frame. Dual “DIGIC 4” processors provide the power to shoot continuous, high-resolution images at up to 10 frames per second (fps), as well as delivering the widest ISO range ever to feature in a Canon camera.

“Throughout the EOS-1D Mark IV’s development, we’ve carefully studied feedback from our photographers and developed a camera to meet their specific requirements” said Mr. Shinbori, Senior General Manager of Camera Development Center, Canon Inc. “With a brand new, high-quality CMOS sensor and Dual “DIGIC 4” processors, the Canon EOS-1D Mark IV allows photographers to be the first to get the highest quality images to picture desks in what is becoming an increasingly competitive market.”

Highly sensitive, cross-type focusing – capture every detail at speed

The Canon EOS-1D Mark IV features a completely new 45-point AF system, with 39 f/2.8 sensitive cross-type points located across the frame, providing consistent AF on static or moving subjects, no matter which AF point is being used. All 45 AF points are user selectable and now more sensitive, with the AF points towards the edge of the frame offering identical levels of performance to those in the centre.

The entire AF system is managed by a dedicated microprocessor, providing fast, accurate focusing – even when shooting continuously at 10fps. Canon’s newly-evolved AI Servo II AF offers more precision when tracking moving objects, utilising the power provided by the dedicated microprocessor to improve overall tracking accuracy and increasing focus reliability in low-contrast and extremely bright conditions.

To provide increased flexibility, a vast range of manual and automatic AF control options are available including - with lenses featuring an AF Stop button - Canon’s new Spot AF feature. Spot AF offers a more precise focus area to meet the needs of photographers that require pinpoint focusing. A 63-zone metering system enables the use of multiple metering modes, with the dedicated sensor linked to the 45 AF points, providing AF point-linked and multiple spot metering options.

The EOS-1D Mark IV also features orientation-linked AF points, an orientation sensor controlled feature that enables photographers to store separate AF points for different camera positions. Covering both horizontal and vertical shooting positions (both grip up and grip down), orientation linked AF points offers the flexibility to quickly change camera orientation when shooting with the AF settings switching to suit the subject. AF point registration enables the photographer to store an alternate AF point that can be used at the touch of a button.

The power and performance of Dual “DIGIC 4” and CMOS

The combination of a custom-designed, high resolution 16.1MP APS-H CMOS sensor and Dual “DIGIC 4” processors ensures that detailed, crisp images are delivered at high speeds.

The inclusion of an APS-H sensor combines a high pixel-count with an effective field of view measuring 1.3x the focal length of the lens. This provides immediate benefits for sports, news and wildlife photojournalists, who operate on-the-move and need to get closer to their subjects and maintain fast apertures without resorting to longer focal-length lenses – which are typically heavier.

Continuous shooting is facilitated by the sensor’s eight-channel data read out, which provides a rapid read sequence and makes full use of the Dual “DIGIC 4” processors to enable high-speed 10fps shooting at full 16.1MP resolution, while maintaining image colours through 14-bit analogue to digital (A/D) conversion.

The ability to shoot images at 10fps, without any drop in resolution, means the EOS-1D Mark IV features the fastest continuous shooting with Auto Focus currently available from a Canon DSLR. The increased processing capacity of Dual “DIGIC 4” processors manages the increased data created by the 60% rise in image resolution, while still enabling the EOS-1D Mark IV to deliver a continuous burst of up to 121 large JPEGS, or 28 RAW images using a UDMA 6 card – ideal for fast-moving sporting action or news events where scenes are unfolding quickly.

The EOS-1D Mark IV also includes updated Picture Styles and the first ever integration of ALO (Auto Lighting Optimizer) in a professional EOS body, automatically correcting the contrast and brightness of images as they are recorded. These features combine to provide a faster workflow for those requiring press-ready images direct from the camera without the need for retouching, enabling photographers to concentrate solely on capturing that once-in-a-lifetime shot.

Full compatibility with the latest UDMA 6 standard Flash memory cards also ensures that image data is rapidly written to the EOS-1D Mark IV’s CF memory card. In addition, the flexibility to also record to a Secure Digital/SDHC memory card allows photographers to keep shooting for longer until they get the shot they need.

Advanced performance in low-light

The EOS-1D Mark IV also delivers extreme low-light performance. Standard ISO on the EOS-1D Mark IV ranges from 100-12,800, while extended ISO ranges from a low of 50 to 102,400 – the highest ISO ever offered by a Canon SLR. This extreme low-light performance makes the EOS-1D Mark IV ideal for night shots or shooting at evening events, where the lack of light would normally make shooting impossible.

Intelligent noise reduction techniques keep chroma and luminance noise to a minimum, while maintaining colour balance, but never take control of the overall image quality away from the photographer. The architecture of the new 16.1MP APS-H CMOS sensor, featuring gapless microlenses with less surrounding circuitry and more sensitive, high-capacity photodiodes, also ensures that all available light is used as efficiently as possible to maximise ISO performance in low light conditions.

Built for extreme use – robust, weatherproof and portable

Light for its category, the EOS-1D Mark IV features a full magnesium alloy body, providing protection against knocks and bumps. The EOS-1D Mark IV has also been the subject of some subtle ergonomic redesigns, with the buttons reshaped and given a more defined ‘click’ when pressed, to make life easier for photographers operating in more extreme weather conditions where gloves may be necessary.

The EOS-1D Mark IV is protected by a total of 76 rubber seals fitted around the controls and cover seams, making the Canon EOS-1D Mark IV dust and water resistant when used in tandem with Canon’s range of weather-resistant EF lenses and Speedlite EX flash units.

The 920,000 dot, VGA resolution, Clear View II LCD makes it easy to instantly review images and video in the most challenging conditions. By filling the gap between the LCD panel and the protective cover screen with a photo-elastic material, Canon has been able to reduce light reflection, resulting in the clear display of images. The previously acrylic cover has also been replaced by reinforced glass, providing strong, scratch-resistant protection for the screen.

The EOS-1D Mark IV also features the EOS integrated cleaning system, which automatically eliminates dust on the sensor – ensuring reliable image quality when shooting in testing outdoor environments.

Cinematic, High Definition video

In addition to providing high-quality still image performance, the Canon EOS-1D Mark IV features EOS Movie function, providing the ability to capture 1080p High Definition (HD) video at 30, 25 and 24fps and 720p footage at 60 and 50fps. As well as complete compatibility with PAL, NTSC and native 1080/24p cinematic frame rates, the EOS-1D Mark IV offers full manual exposure, providing film makers and photographers with control over depth of field.

The EOS-1D Mark IV features a programmable button to enable quick movie shooting, allowing photographers to record HD video instantly at the touch of a single button. The EOS-1D Mark IV also features a mini HDMI output, enabling video and images to be viewed directly on compatible HD-ready TVs.
Advanced customisation to suit you.

Canon’s EOS-1D Mark IV is highly customisable, allowing photographers to take complete control of the camera’s features. Auto Exposure (AE) and Flash Exposure (FE) micro-adjustments allow photographers to fine tune the exposure for any given purpose, enabling them to perfectly match two separate cameras for consistent results or simply adjust the settings to meet specific personal requirements and tastes. Preferred user profiles can also be stored to memory card and subsequently transferred to other EOS-1D Mark IV bodies, so that photographers can seamlessly transfer their profile to another body if required.

Further customisable features include the ability to add copyright information directly in the camera. This enables photographers to embed their details within each shot as standard, removing the need for retrospective data insertion, and allowing news photographers to get shots to picture desks in the shortest time possible. An integrated microphone also allows the recording of audio notes to accompany each image, which will directly benefit photographers who wish to keep a record of the content of each image as they shoot.

Quick comparison 1D3/1D4

1D4 Technologies explained (from Canon UK)

Canon CMOS sensor

Designed by Canon and working in combination with the company’s DIGIC processors, Canon’s CMOS technology integrates advanced noise reduction circuitry at each pixel site delivering virtually noise-free images. In comparison with CCD technology, the lower power consumption characteristics of Canon’s CMOS sensors also contribute to longer battery life.

Signal conversion in Canon’s CMOS sensors is handled by individual amplifiers at each pixel site. Unnecessary charge transfer operations are avoided, vastly speeding up the process of getting signal to the image processor. Noise generation is reduced, power consumption is limited and faster frame rate potential is increased.

The architecture of the EOS-1D Mark IV sensor has been refined in order to derive maximum light efficiency and natural colour reproduction. Despite a smaller pixel size, optimised, more sensitive photodiodes, with higher signal to noise (S/N) ratios and larger capacities, allow more optical information to be gathered and transferred to the Dual DIGIC4 processors. This enables high ISO speeds, low noise, and a wide dynamic range to be achieved.

Additional features to reduce noise and support higher ISO speeds include: gapless microlenses, which have been moved closer to the photodiode to maximise the sensor’s light-gathering ability the circuit for applying high gain suppresses noise from outside the sensor itself

AI Servo II

AI Servo AF uses a form of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to determine the speed and direction of moving subjects, then focuses the camera lens to a predicted position (Focus Prediction Function) in order to increase the probability of obtaining a sharp photograph.

Realising the importance of AI Servo in today’s high speed cameras, the EOS-1D Mark IV autofocus system has been improved and is capable of accurately tracking a variety of subjects travelling at a variety of different speeds and distances. Tracking and focusing on macro subjects has been enabled through faster processing.

The following AF features have been improved with AI Servo II: Stable lens drive: In normal operation, the AI Servo algorithm makes calculations, and based on these results, instructs the lens to change focus position. Now, if the algorithm gets two results one after the other that are very different - for example, the subject changed direction rapidly and was not where the system expected it to be - this calculation is ignored and the system waits to instruct the lens until two results match. This means that errors generated no longer cause the lens to jump unexpectedly out of focus. Secure focus tracking of a subject: If an obstacle is detected or if the AF point is not kept over the subject, tracking continues based on the last known trajectory result immediately before the interruption. Moderate lens drive: If there is a radical change in focus distance, the lens is not driven straight to that value. It is slowly taken there based on past prediction results. This means that if a photographer drifts off the subject to the background for an extended period of time, the lens will not snap focus straight to the background. This in turn means that if the photographer gets the AF point back onto the subject that the lens is able to achieve sharp focus much more quickly. Predictive control with quick response: The system is now able to achieve predictive focus immediately as the subject starts moving and there is no delay before it can start tracking.

Dual DIGIC4 processors

Image information is processed by Canon’s Dual DIGIC4 processors, purpose-built to complement the 16.1 MP CMOS sensor. The power of Dual DIGIC4 enables more advanced processing algorithms to ensure precise, natural colours, accurate white balance and advanced noise reduction, as well as in-camera editing of EOS Movie clips filmed in full HD. The ultra-fast processing speeds raise the overall response rate of the camera operation and produce near-instant start-up times.

DIGIC chips work with a high speed DDR-SDRAM image buffer – reading, processing, compressing and writing image data fast enough to keep the buffer clear during long continuous shooting bursts. The buffer of the EOS-1D Mark IV’s Dual DIGIC4 processors has also been increased to support continuous bursts of up to 121 large JPEGs or 28 RAW files at 10fps, at full-resolution. In addition, as DIGIC 4 integrates all key processing functions, power consumption is kept to a minimum.

Working in tandem with Canon’s CMOS sensor, DIGIC 4 removes the highly-noticeable colour noise, as well as reducing luminance noise without loss in detail, allowing for very clean, high ISO images. Even at ISO 6400, noise levels are similar to those of ISO 1600 from DIGIC III. The Dual DIGIC4 processors also support M-RAW and S-RAW image formats, commonly used by news desks, to maintain the benefit of RAW files whilst reducing file size.

Clear View II LCD

EOS-1D Mark IV’s 3-inch LCD monitor has 920,000 dots (VGA resolution) with a viewing angle of 160°. Clear View II has been designed to combat glare by removing the air gap between the LCD’s protective cover and the liquid crystal display. The air gap is filled with a photo-elastic material. This suppresses the reflections from the surface of the liquid crystal, caused by the sharp change in refractive index as light travels through the air gap.

EOS Movie

The EOS Movie function allows EOS-1D Mark IV users to record 1080p HD movies with full manual control and selectable frame rates.

Thanks to the large size of the integrated CMOS sensor (28.1x18.7mm), photographers have greater ability to control depth of field. The exposure of the movie can be controlled in Manual mode, allowing full control of shutter speeds and apertures. It is possible to select frame rates from: 30 (29.97), 25, and 24 (23.976), with 60 (59.94) and 50 available at resolutions of 720p. Program mode also allows photographers to easily shoot HD video without worrying about exposure settings– ideal when needing to capture split-second action as it unfolds.

Picture Styles

Picture Style presets simplify in-camera control over image qualities. Picture Style presets can be likened to different film types – each one offering a different colour response. Within each selectable preset, photographers have control over sharpness, contrast, colour tone and saturation. The camera’s factory default configuration is set to deliver immediately-usable JPEG images without need for additional menu settings. Picture Style presets applied to a RAW image can be revised with Canon’s
Digital Photo Professional software.

The six presets are:

1. Standard – for crisp, vivid images that don’t require post-processing

2. Portrait – optimises colour tone and saturation and weakens sharpening to achieve attractive skin tones

3. Landscape – for punchier greens and blues with stronger sharpening to give a crisp edge to mountain, tree and building outlines

4. Neutral – ideal for post-processing

5. Faithful – adjusts colour to match the subject colour when shot under a colour temperature of 5200K

6. Monochrome – for black and white shooting with a range of filter effects (yellow, orange, red and green) and toning effects (sepia, blue, purple and green)

With the EOS-1D Mark IV, the Picture Style presets feature greater sharpening (for all presets excluding Faithful and Neutral), giving the photographer press-ready files straight from the camera.

Auto Lighting Optimizer

The Auto Lighting Optimizer (ALO) automatically corrects the image brightness and contrast for images suffering from underexposure, low contrast, or backlit situations, assisted by face detection technology. With DIGIC 4's low-noise image processing and corrective algorithm, the correction is performed without affecting the natural gradation. Standard, Low, Strong, or Disable settings can be set and applied to the image.

With the EOS-1D Mark IV, the Auto Lighting Optimizer now works with manual exposure and bulb shooting. The correction is based on the exposure set by the user and is especially effective for backlit conditions when the subject looks dark. Typically, if the exposure is brightened for the subject, the background becomes overexposed. However, with the Auto Lighting Optimizer set and the picture taken so that the background is not overexposed, both the subject and background can be favorably exposed.

EOS Integrated Cleaning System

The EOS Integrated Cleaning System combats sensor dust in three important ways: Reduce, Repel and Remove.

1. Reduce - Internal camera mechanisms are designed to minimise dust generation. The redesigned body cap prevents dust generation through wear on the cap itself

2. Repel - Anti-static technologies, including a special fluorine coating, are applied to the low-pass filter covering the front of the sensor so as not to attract dust

3. Remove - A Self-Cleaning Sensor Unit uses hi-frequency vibrations to shake dust from the infrared filter for a period of approximately one second after each start up. For instant shooting after power up, this feature is disabled immediately as the shutter release is depressed

Canon has also developed an internal Dust Delete Data system, which can map the position of visible dust on the sensor. This can then be deleted automatically after the shoot with the latest Digital Photo Professional software.

Software

Digital Photo Professional Software

Digital Photo Professional software provides high speed, high quality processing of lossless RAW images. Processing with Digital Photo Professional allows real-time display and immediate application of image adjustments, giving control over RAW image variables such as white balance, dynamic range, exposure compensation, noise reduction and colour tone – plus the ability to view Auto Focus points on an image. The Lens Aberration correction tool allows precise correction of different types of distortion caused by certain cameras. Images can be recorded in camera with sRGB or Adobe RGB colour space.

Digital Photo Professional supports sRGB, Adobe RGB, ColourMatch RGB, Apple RGB and Wide Gamut RGB colour spaces. ICC (International Colour Consortium) profiles can be attached to TIFF or JPEG images when converted from RAW. This allows faithful reproduction of colours in software applications that support ICC profiles, such as Adobe Photoshop. For improved efficiency, a set of image adjustments can be saved as a recipe and applied.

EOS Utility

The latest version of EOS Utility provides essential support for Live View remote shooting, camera configuration and image transfers. Tightly integrated with Digital Photo Professional, EOS Utility can be configured to monitor ‘hot’ folders, automatically renaming and moving incoming images to a structured file system. Users can also tag their images with EXIF data, including copyright information.

Picture Style Editor

Picture Style Editor allows photographers to create individual Picture Styles that meet their personal requirements. Each Picture Style contains detailed information on how specific colours should be represented within an image. Once new Picture Styles have been created, they can be uploaded directly into the camera and applied to JPEG or RAW images. When working with RAW files in DPP, both personal Picture Styles and predetermined Picture Styles can all be adjusted.

US Press release

INTRODUCING THE ULTIMATE MULTIMEDIA IMAGING SOLUTION: THE NEW CANON EOS-1D MARK IV DIGITAL SLR CAMERA

The EOS-1D Mark IV Features a Completely Redesigned 45-Point Autofocus System, Fast 10 fps Continuous Shooting, 16-Megapixel Resolution, Outstanding ISO Sensitivity, and Full HD Video Recording at Selectable Frame Rates

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., October 20, 2009 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging, is proud to introduce the next evolution in the EOS 1D series of cameras: the Canon EOS-1D Mark IV Digital SLR camera. The EOS-1D Mark IV is a high-speed multimedia performance monster with a 16-megapixel Canon CMOS sensor, Dual DIGIC 4 Imaging Processors, and 14-bit A/D data conversion, all at 10 frames-per-second (fps), with the widest ISO range Canon has produced to date. This new camera also features 1080p Full High-Definition video capture at selectable frame rates packaged in Canon’s most rugged and durable professional camera body.

The crowning achievement of Canon’s 1D Mark IV Digital SLR is its new autofocus system that starts with 45 AF points including 39 high-precision cross-type focusing points capable of tracking fast moving athletes or wildlife accurately at speeds up to 10 frames per second. With greater subject detection capability than ever before plus a newly redesigned AI Servo II AF predictive focusing algorithm, the Canon EOS-1D Mark IV camera sets new standards for autofocus performance among professional digital SLRs. Whether shooting for the six o’clock news or the front page, the EOS-1D Mark IV Digital SLR is the quintessential camera to freeze fast-moving action with high-speed stills or capture stunning HD video with dynamic colour and image quality. To accompany the new EOS-1D Mark IV Digital SLR camera, Canon is also announcing a new accessory, the WFT-E2 II A wireless file transmitter providing photographers with a wide range of professional digital connectivity options.

“Canon works hard to be the imaging leader in all our business endeavors. This goal has fueled our innovation and R&D efforts to engineer the most advanced autofocus system Canon has ever produced. We are proud to announce the camera that will deliver the ultimate in imaging quality to professionals working in all areas of multimedia imaging, whether it’s action photography, photojournalism or HD video and cinematography,” stated Yuichi Ishizuka, senior vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon U.S.A.
The Canon EOS-1D Mark IV camera will intrigue professional photographers in virtually every category from photojournalism and sports through nature, wedding, portrait and fashion to commercial, industrial and law enforcement. What makes the EOS-1D Mark IV camera different from its predecessors, in addition to numerous focusing system and image quality improvements, is its exceptional Full HD video capture capability. With this new level of functionality, the 1D Mark IV Digital SLR is destined to appeal not only to professional still photographers but also to a diverse market of professional videographers and filmmakers who are looking for exceptional Full HD video quality, amazing low-light performance, outstanding portability and a level of durability unheard of in most HD video cameras in this price range.

New 45-Point Autofocus System

The new EOS-1D Mark IV Digital SLR camera features Canon’s most advanced Autofocus system to date. It is equipped with a newly developed 45-point AF sensor featuring 39 high-precision cross-type AF points, and an all new AI Servo II AF mode that gives still photographers the power and performance to track and focus a fast-moving subject at speeds up to 10 frames per second. With more than twice as many cross-type focusing points as the EOS-1D Mark III and a new AF sensor construction that improves performance in low light and with low contrast subjects, the EOS-1D Mark IV has greater subject detection capabilities than any previous EOS model. To complete the range of AF improvements, Canon has developed a new AI Servo II AF predictive focusing algorithm that significantly improves responsiveness and stability by making better decisions on focus tracking in a variety of shooting conditions.

Amazing High ISO Performance

Wedding and event photographers shooting in low light without the benefit of a flash can take advantage of Canon’s widest ISO range and highest performance ever. The EOS-1D Mark IV camera’s ISO speed settings range from 100 up to 12,800 in 1/3 or 1/2 stop increments with ISO Expansion settings of L: 50 for bright light or H1: 25,600, H2: 51,200, and H3: 102,400 for even the most dimly lit situations. Photographers and documentary filmmakers working in available light will be impressed by the low-noise image quality of the 1D Mark IV, capturing amazing still images and video footage even at speed settings as high as ISO 12,800. High ISO, low light still images are further enhanced by Canon’s adjustable High ISO Noise Reduction feature, now a default setting in the camera.

The EOS-1D Mark IV, EOS HD Video Powerhouse

Over the past year, Canon’s EOS HD Video technology has changed the way users capture 1080p HD video and opened new doors for multimedia journalists and Hollywood cinematographers alike with full manual exposure control, selectable frame rates, and interchangeable lenses on some of the largest and most sensitive image sensors on the market. Canon continues this innovation trend with the new EOS-1D Mark IV Digital SLR with Full HD capture and full manual exposure control, plus selectable frame rates on an all-new APS-H-sized image sensor that’s similar in size to a Super 35mm motion picture film frame. The large sensor allows filmmakers to achieve shallow depth-of-field just as cinematographers have traditionally done using much higher-cost motion picture equipment.

The more than 50 Canon EF lenses compatible with the EOS-1D Mark IV give videographers incredible creative options, including an impressive selection of large-aperture professional L-series primes as well as zoom lenses, macro, Tilt-Shift and Fisheye optics. The Canon EOS-1D Mark IV allows for three video recording resolutions – 1080p Full HD and 720p HD in a 16:9 aspect ratio and Standard Definition (SD) in a 4:3 aspect ratio. The camera will record Full HD at 1920 x 1080 in selectable frame rates of 24p (23.976), 25p, or 30p (29.97); and 720p HD or SD video recording at either 50p or 60p (59.94). SD video can be recorded in either NTSC or PAL standards. Sound is recorded either through the internal monaural microphone or via optional external microphones connected to the stereo microphone input. The camera also provides an in-camera video editing function allowing users to remove the start or ending of a video clip directly in the camera to eliminate unwanted footage and speed up post-production.

Image Quality and Performance

The heart of the EOS-1D Mark IV camera’s outstanding image quality is a newly developed 16.1-Megapixel CMOS sensor featuring Canon’s latest and most advanced proprietary technologies. These technologies include improved photodiode construction to enhance dynamic range and gapless microlenses that are positioned closer to the photodiodes for improved light gathering efficiency. The transmissive quality of the colour filter array has been enhanced to improve sensitivity. Canon has also upgraded the sensor circuitry to improve noise reduction before the image data is exported from the CMOS sensor to the rest of the image processing chain.

With 60 percent more pixels than the EOS-1D Mark III, the EOS-1D Mark IV Digital SLR employs Dual DIGIC 4 Image Processors with approximately six times the processing power of DIGIC III for full 14-bit A/D conversion at 10 fps. High-speed continuous shooting up to 121 Large JPEGs is possible using a UDMA CF card. This camera also features three RAW shooting modes for versatility with Full RAW (approx. 16 million pixels), M-RAW (approx. nine million pixels), and S-RAW (approx. four million pixels). Three additional JPEG recording formats (M1, M2 and Small) are also available.

The 14-bit per channel conversion facilitated by the dual DIGIC 4 Processors provides smoother tonalities in final images capturing all 16,384 distinct tones in each channel (red, green and blue) at the full 10 fps frame rate. RAW images shot on the new Canon EOS-1D Mark IV use the entire 14-bit space when converted to 16-bit TIFF files in Canon Digital Photo Professional (DPP) software, which is supplied with the camera at no extra charge. The 14-bit A/D conversion is also the foundation for Canon’s Highlight Tone Priority feature that takes maximum advantage of the camera’s extensive dynamic range to preserve detail in highlight areas of the image. Canon’s new EOS-1D Mark IV Digital SLR also features an improved white balance algorithm making colours more accurate when shooting under low colour temperature light sources such as household tungsten lamps.

The EOS-1D Mark IV Digital SLR features Canon’s Peripheral Illumination Correction function which corrects darkening that can occur in the corners of images with most lenses when used at their largest apertures. When activated, it is automatically applied to JPEG images and video clips as they are shot. For RAW images, it can be applied in DPP software.

Other new features include a large three-inch solid structure Clear View II LCD screen with 920,000 dot/VGA resolution and a wide 160-degree viewing angle for enhanced clarity and more precise colour when reviewing images and shooting video. The new in-camera copyright information feature helps professionals secure control over images by setting copyright data directly into the camera and appending that information to each image file in the Exif metadata. Additional features include a fluorine coating on the Low Pass Filter to further repel dust and enhance the EOS Integrated Cleaning System.

Minimize Post-Production with Enhanced Canon Auto Lighting Optimizer

Action photography truly is all about speed, capturing a fast subject with fast focusing and fast frame rates. However, all this speed might be wasted if it is slowed down by lengthy post-production procedures to adjust image quality. The EOS-1D Mark IV Digital SLR helps reduce post-production work with a powerful new Auto Lighting Optimizer (ALO) system. When enabled, Canon’s ALO automatically adjusts the image for optimal brightness and contrast on the fly during in-camera image processing, reducing clipped highlights while keeping shadowed areas as clear and detailed as they actually appear. By optimizing brightness and contrast in-camera, Canon’s ALO system significantly reduces the need for post-production image optimization, and gives photographers image quality they can take directly to press. Demanding professional photographers who tested ALO clearly stated that this one feature will reduce their post-production image optimization process by more than 75 percent. Canon’s ALO works with both RAWi and JPEG images as well as video recording.

Rugged Reliability

Canon has taken every measure to ensure that the EOS-1D Mark IV Digital SLR camera has the highest degree of weather resistance in the EOS line. The 1D Mark IV camera incorporates a wide range of design features that enhance its durability and reliability for professional assignments. For example, the 1D Mark IV’s body, chassis and lens mount are completely weather-resistant and 76 gaskets and seals surround all buttons and seams. The body covers and internal chassis, including the mirror box, are constructed with magnesium-alloy, one of the strongest and rigid metals available for its weight. For added strength, the lens mount is constructed with stainless steel. In fact, when used with Canon’s Speedlite 580EX II and/or most current L-series lenses, the entire camera system remains fully weather resistant, so professionals can concentrate on getting the shot instead of worrying about protecting their gear.

New Wireless Connectivity

Canon is announcing the availability of the new WFT-E2 II A* wireless file transmitter exclusively for the EOS-1D Mark IV Digital SLR camera. The WFT-E2 II A wireless transmitter is an extremely small and versatile device that offers professional photographers a wide range of digital connectivity options including IEEE802.11a/b/g and Ethernet, ideal for commercial and studio work. In addition to adding the ability to connect to wireless networks over 802.11a, the new WFT-E2 II A adds a wealth of new professional features to the photographer’s tool kit. The new Camera Linking feature allows a single photographer to simultaneously fire up to 10 cameras remotely; and the updated WFT Server mode lets you remotely use Live View, control settings, and fire the EOS-1D Mark IV over the internet from anywhere in the world using a standard Web browser or many Web-enabled smart phones. Additionally, geotagging is now possible via Bluetooth, using compatible GPS devices to append coordinate data to the images.
Pricing and Availability

The Canon EOS-1D Mark IV Digital SLR camera is scheduled to be delivered to U.S. dealers in late December, and will be sold in a body-only configuration at an estimated retail price of $4,999.00ii. Final pricing and availability for the Canon WFT-E2 II A wireless file transmitter will be available later this year.

Info from Canon Australia

EOS Professional: Performance to meet any challenge

With an incredible ISO range from 100 - 12800, expandable to a low of 50 and high of 102400, this EOS professional 1-series camera achieves incredible performance in low-light conditions. Combined with a stunning 10fps and ability to capture up to 120 shots in a single continuous burst, and FULL HD movie recording, the new Canon EOS 1D Mark IV delivers professional photographers with the performance to meet any challenge.

Connect your EOS 1D Mark IV to a PIXMA PRO Printer and print stunning professional quality photos at home, the office or in the studio: visit PIXMA PRO

Outstanding image quality
- 16.1 megapixel APS-H CMOS Sensor
- Dual DiG!C 4 Image Processors
- 14-bit A/D colour conversion
- ISO 100-12800 (L:50, H1: 25600, H2: 51200,
H3: 102400)

High Performance Features
- High speed & precision 45-point AF
(39 cross-type points + 6 points)
- Capture up to 10 fps
- HDMI Output in FULL High-Definition
- FULL HD Movie recording

Digital SLR photography made easy
- 3.0" Clear View II LCD screen (920,000 dots)
- Quick Control screen
- Compatible with all EF lenses
- Live View shooting

Highly Intuitive
- Automatic image correction
- Auto Lighting Optimiser
- Auto correction of lens peripheral illumination
- EOS Integrated Cleaning System

Excellent customisation features
- Copyright information - up to 63 characters
- Register up to three camera user settings
- 62 custom functions
- My Menu

Huge Range of Standard Accessories + Software
- Battery Charger LC-E4
- Interface Cable IFC-200U
- Battery Pack LP-E4
- Stereo AV cable AVC-DC400ST
- Date/time CR2025 lithium battery
- Wide Strap L6
- EOS DIGITAL Solution Disk
- Software Instruction Manual

Optional Accessories
- All EF & L Series Lenses
- Canon EX-series Speedlites
- Macro Ring Lite MR-14EX
- Macro Twin Lite MT-24EX
- E-series Dioptric Adjustment Lenses
- Angle Finder C
- Original Data Security Kit OSK-E3
- Interface Cable IFC-500U
- AC Adapter Kit ACK-E4
- Battery Charger CBL-E6
- Car Battery Cable CB-570
- HDMI Cable HTC-100
- Wireless File Transmitter WFTE2 II D
- Timer Remote Controller TC-80N3
- Remote Switch RS-80N3
- Wireless Controller LC-5
- Speedlite Transmitter ST-E2

* Please note - for a complete list of standard inclusions and optional accessories, contact your nearest Canon dealer. Not all items listed in the specifications come as standard
** Prices are for body only and do not include lenses. Kit prices for SLR cameras with lenses are also available, please contact your nearest Canon dealer for more information.
*** All pricing indications are recommendations and are intended for guidance only. Dealers are not obliged to comply with recommended pricing. Please contact your nearest Canon dealer for specific pricing, product and inclusion information.
**** Available at selected Canon resellers nationally.

Specifications

Wireless options

Pre-release rumours

2009 October

19th Waiting... :-)

One of our sources has said it's definitely 'IV' not 'V' - this via one of the people invited to Canon's world wide events to announce the camera.

Another vote for 1Dv [PB] also suggesting 1.3 crop but not much else of substance.

We hear (thanks) of a press conference tomorrow morning in Denmark and there's an ad at the top of this page that suggests a dealer will have a pre-production camera to look at by 13:30

On a personal note - if any regular visitors make use of Linked-in, please feel free to drop by my profile and connect - there are several useful pro-photographer groups on the Linked-in network

18th Are we to get a jump to the EOS 1DV?

17th Whatever may be announced in the coming week, many of our usual sources are saying they've not had any detailed info.

Have Canon finally manged to plug the leaks ;-)

14th Seems we had a few DNS problems overnight, but hopefully the site is visible again :-)

No one has recently said that the 1D4 won't be announced until February - indeed, we've now had several comments pointing to it matching the 102k ISO for the updated D3s

There's a copy of a Canon Australia 20th Oct invite at CR

As widely anticipated, Nikon updates the D3 to the D3s - specs

Key changes include

ISO to 102400
Raw buffer to 48 images
Sensor cleaning
720/24 video
New 1.2x crop mode

13th Another comment received about invitations going out for 'a new 1D' to be shown on Tuesday the 20th

All pre release rumours before 13th October 2009 are now on a 1D4 rumours archive page

When was that camera announced?

The original EOS 1DMk3