Canon EOS 5D Mark IV camera Review
The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is a professional-grade 30.4MP full-frame digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera made by Canon. Released in 2016, it is the successor to the highly popular EOS 5D Mark III. This high-end camera is designed for professional photographers and advanced amateurs and has excellent image quality, performance, and features.
In terms of design, the 5D Mark IV looks nearly identical to its predecessor with an all-black body and large grip for comfortable handling. The buttons and dials are in familiar locations for those upgrading from other Canon DSLRs. The camera body is made of a durable magnesium alloy and extensive weather sealing allows use in harsh conditions. The 5D Mark IV is a bit heavier than the 5D III at 1.76 lbs for the body only.
At the heart of the camera is a new 30.4MP full-frame CMOS sensor paired with Canon’s latest DIGIC 6+ image processor. This delivers outstanding resolution with superb dynamic range and high ISO performance. The native ISO ranges from 100-32000 and can be expanded down to 50 and up to 102400. Overall image quality is fantastic with excellent fine detail, vibrant colors, and minimal noise.
Performance is very fast for a full-frame DSLR. It can shoot continuously at up to 7 frames per second, allowing you to easily capture fast action sequences. The 61-point AF system with 41 cross-type sensors locks focus quickly with high accuracy. Dual Pixel AF during Live View focusing is also fast and accurate.
The 5D Mark IV captures video up to 4K resolution at 30 fps with excellent quality. HD video can be shot up to 60 fps for smooth slow motion. Dual Pixel AF provides fast autofocus and subject tracking when recording video. The touchscreen LCD lets you set focus simply by tapping the screen.
This camera has a plethora of features for both photos and videos. The 150,000-pixel RGB+IR metering sensor helps capture accurate exposures in varied lighting conditions. Built-in HDR, multiple exposures, and interval shooting expand your creative options. Dual card slots allow overflow, backup, or separation of RAW and JPEG files. The menu system interface has been improved for greater usability and customization.
The optical viewfinder provides approximately 100% coverage for composing shots. The 3.2″ touch screen LCD with 1.62 million dots rotates and tilts for flexible viewing angles. Built-in WiFi/NFC allows connection to smartphones and computers for wireless image transfer and remote control. Dual CompactFlash and SD memory card slots offer flexible storage options.
Image quality for still photos is simply outstanding. Images display incredible resolution, superb dynamic range, excellent high ISO performance up to 12,800, and beautiful color rendition. Noise is very well-controlled up to mid-range ISOs. The level of fine detail captured is impressive. JPEG and RAW images both contain a high amount of editable image data.
Video quality looks excellent with smooth 4K footage up to 30 fps. You can extract high-quality 8MP stills from the 4K video. Focus transitions and subject tracking are pleasingly smooth when recording. The Dual Pixel AF capability makes maintaining critical focus simple. Slow motion HD video is nice and smooth. Video is highly customizable with flat color profiles available.
In conclusion, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is one of the best full-frame prosumer DSLRs available. It excels in both still photos and videos. Image quality is spectacular with ultra high resolution and low noise. Performance is blazing fast with quick focusing and up to 7 fps continuous shooting. The extensive feature set provides immense creative control for any scenario. It’s highly customizable and great for field work with robust construction and weather sealing. While not cheap, the 5D Mark IV is a top-tier camera for professionals and advanced hobbyists. It’s an outstanding all-around shooter and receives my highest recommendation.