Shortly after Canon announced the 5D Mark IV, the company followed up with an optional upgrade for video shooters who wanted to access Canon Log. Now, Canon is making a 5D Mark IV available with Canon Log pre-installed, allowing filmmakers to have the tools they need immediately at their disposal. For those curious about the feature, Canon Log is an advanced profile that helps boost the dynamic range of recorded video to about 800%, or 12 stops. It works by capturing an extremely flat image that ensures more details are retained in the shadows and highlights.
For operation, the 5D Mark IV must have Canon Log turned on, which then recommends a sensitivity of ISO 400 or higher to maximize dynamic range, though lower ISOs are still available. Users will then be able to use a View Assist function with one of two Look Up Tables, or LUTs, that will ensure a more accurate representation of a graded image. The options are for Canon Log 10 to Wide DR, which presents an image with preserved detail in the highlights and shadows, and Canon Log 10 to ITU-R BT.709, which shows the image in a more conventional Rec. 709 color space. There are also options for dialing in more exact settings within the profile, including adjustments to sharpness, saturation, and hue. Canon Log works in all modes including DCI 4K recording and in High Frame Rate.
If you already purchased a 5D Mark IV and would like to have Canon Log installed, you can contact Canon directly and arrange for the upgrade to be performed at a Canon Factory Service Center.
