Canon EOS 5DS 5DS R Hands-On Sample Photos

Canon has introduced the new Canon EOS 5DS and 5DS R, both cameras feature the same body as the EOS 5D Mark III, but with a drastically higher resolution sensor. The camera features a 50.6 megapixel full-frame sensor, and are capable of shooting at 5fps. With the highest resolution sensor available in a Digital SLR sized camera, Canon say that the 5DS and 5DS R are able to produce medium-format quality images, but without the bulk and weight associated with medium-format camera systems. 

Canon EOS 5DS / 5DS R Features

The 5DS and R shoot 50.6 megapixel images, that are 8788 x 5792 pixels in size, and the sensor has been developed in-house by Canon. The cameras features 1:1x, 1.3x and 1.6x crop modes, giving the option to shoot 33 megapixel (5792x5792), 30 megapixel (6768x4512) and 19 megapixel (5424x3616) images respectively. To look at the cameras, you won't be able to tell any difference, apart from the sticker on the camera, as well as the price difference between the two models.

The Canon EOS 5DS R features a low-pass cancellation filter, and has not entirely removed the Anti-Aliasing (AA) filter as other cameras such as the D810 have. The low pass filter is one of the most expensive pieces of equipment in the camera, and this is why there is a difference in price between the 5DS and 5DS R. The use of a low-pass cancellation filter, instead of completely removing the AA filter means that the focus systems can be the same in both cameras. 

Key Features

• 50.6 megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor
• 3.2inch screen, 1040k dot resolution
• 61-point AF system, iTR, -2EV
• 150K Pixel RGB+IR metering sensor
• Dual DIGIC 6 processors
• SD/CF card slots
• ISO100- ISO6400, expanded to ISO50 to ISO12800
• Mirror Vibration Control System
• 1:1, 1.3x, 1.6x crop modes
• 5fps continuous shooting
• 150,000 shutter life rating
• Dual-axis electronic level
• 700 shot battery life
• USB3.0 socket
• Magnesium alloy weather sealed body

Canon EOS 5DS / 5DS R Handling and Performance

Shooting RAW images results in 60MB files, and the camera has an SD memory card slot as well as a Compact Flash memory card slot.

The camera has a new “Fine Detail” picture style that is set up to produce sharp detailed JPEG images straight from the camera, and there are now three sharpening options available when customising camera settings. When viewing images taken with the camera, it’s possible to see the difference in the Standard picture style and Fine Detail, and the level of detail captured is impressive.

The ISO range is ISO100 to ISO6400, and this can be extended to ISO50 and ISO12800. There is also an updated bulb timer feature that can be programmed on the camera, allowing exposures up to 4 days!

The 5DS and 5DS R uses the same battery grip and battery as the 5D Mark III, as well as being the same dimensions as the 5D Mark III, however with a slightly lighter body weight, of 845g. Battery life is rated at 700 shots, and can be extended with the optional battery grip, and the camera is compatible with the 5D Mark III battery grip.

The buttons and control layout of the 5DS and 5DS R will be familiar to anyone who has used the 5D Mark III, however the 5DS (and R) let you customise the Quick control screen, letting you select the options and controls you want to see featured. There are three custom modes on the mode dial. The optical viewfinder gives 100% coverage, and has a customisable overlay, as well as displaying the 1.1/1.3/1.6 crop lines if required. 

The camera records full HD video, and can create time-lapse movies in-camera. There is also a built-in HDR mode that will automatically combine three shots taken at different exposures for enhanced dynamic range. Due to the high resolution sensor, Canon recommend the use of L lenses, as well as TSE lenses, and will be emphasising the importance of correct technique on the Canon Professional Network website. 

Nb. These images were shot on a pre-production Canon EOS 5DS beta sample, and final image quality may vary. Images have been resized. These images were taken by Canon Explorers and used with permission from Canon. 

Canon EOS 5DS Other sample images

Nb. These images were shot on a pre-production Canon EOS 5DS R beta sample, and final image quality may vary. Images have been resized. 

Canon EOS 5DS R Other sample images

Hands-on photos of the 5DS, and 5DS R:

Canon EOS 5DS Hands-On Photos of Equipment

Canon EOS 5DS R Hands-On Photos of Equipment

Canon EOS 5DS R Specifications

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