Atomos Academy has published an episode focusing on the new firmware update that allows the 8K ProRes RAW full-frame recording straight from the Canon EOS R5. The results are stunning. Does it mean that the EOS R5 has just been transformed into a filmmaking machine?
Canon EOS R5 and Ninja V+: 8K FF ProRes RAW
The Canon EOS R5 1.4 and Atomos OS 10.68 firmware update allow the R5 to shoot 8K ProRes RAW straight to the Ninja V+ 8K recorder vis HDMI, by utilizing the whole VV (Vista Vision) sensor of the EOS R5. Furthermore, the heat limitations have just been neutralized, since the Ninja V+ absorbs all the heat generated due to the processing power needed for that 8K RAW output. Yes, now you can record continuous 8K RAW from the Canon EOS R5. However, you will need to purchase the Atomos Ninja V+ recorder that specializes in 8K video and costs $1,500. Nevertheless, it still will allow you to get a solid filmmaking machine that can output 8K FF RAW (ProRes RAW) for just $5,400 which is pretty affordable. However, how does it perform in the real world?
The apparatus in real-world scenarios
Filmmaker Levi Allen went as an ambassador at Atomos, to test this new filmmaking configuration. He took the Canon EOS R5, armed with the Ninja V+, to try and make a documentary, by examining the system in the field under harsh conditions. The results are shown in the Atomos Academy’s latest episode. After watching it, we can tell you that the footage looks really compelling, demonstrating beautiful colors and a high dynamic range. According to Allen, the system (EOS R5+ Ninja V+) operated perfectly in the field. Overheating is jargon that wasn’t even mentioned. Allen praised this combination, its usability, credibility, and the quality of the results came from it.
Enhancing the power of the independent filmmaker
The combination of the Canon EOS R5 with the Atomos Ninja V+ allows independent filmmakers to get 8K ProRes RAW images from a large sensor, by utilization of a user-friendly interface. All of that in a compact filmmaking package, and affordable price. Don’t forget that the EOS R5 is a mighty still camera as well. Back to filmmaking, this combo allows the privilege of shooting ultra-high-resolution RAW that will grant professional results. Furthermore, the EOS R5 is a very simple camera to operate, and the Ninja V+ facilitates operation even further.
So what’s the catch?
Although the EOS R5 and the Ninja V+ sound like a perfect combination, it is, but for independent filmmakers and sole operators. That’s great. However, professional productions will prefer other much fancier, and prestigious setups (ARRI, RED, and other ‘cinema’ options), although the picture quality and the accuracy of the footage are the same. Yes, you can watch a film shot on the EOS R5 in ProRes RAW, and then watch a film shot on ARRI (ProRes 4444) and you might not notice the difference, even watching it on the big screen. However, operating an ARRI demands a ‘cinema package’ as opposed to the EOS R5 that can be operated via an ultra-lean setup. Moreover, the EOS R5 is not approved by Netflix, for those that it constitutes a crucial factor.
What about post-production?
Although it’s pretty educating, this Atomos Academy episode could be a lot better. For instance, there’s not enough talk about the editing of those 8K ProRes files, which is very essential for filmmakers. Indeed, Allen said that these 8K ProRes RAW files were edited flawlessly, and without any transcoding needed, we’d appreciate seeing some proofs for that. For instance, Atomos should be taking us to the editing room in order to examine how those 8K ProRes RAW layers are been merged into Final Cut. Hopefully, this will be demonstrated in the next episodes.
Watch the full episode below (test footage starts from minute 1:10):
Final thoughts
Apple ProRes RAW is a fine codec. But it should be called Atomos RAW, as the only way of getting it is via Atomos recorders (if I’m not mistaken). Apple has created a whole ecosystem to utilize this codec, especially implemented in the Mac Pro (Afterburner anyone?). We’d love to see more cases from industry experts that this codec is actually been used in high-end productions, and not just in independent projects.
Product list
Here’re the products mentioned in the article, and the links to purchase them from authorized dealers.
- Canon EOS R5 Mirrorless Digital Camera (Body Only)
- Atomos Ninja V+ 5.2″ 8K HDMI H.265 Raw Recording Monitor
It should actually be called FCPX Atomos RAW. As the only way to REALLY enjoy PR Raw is via FCPX where you can control ISO and WB. Personally I was hype about ProRes Raw but at the end if you are not on fully committed to be on Mac and do not care to add weight to your gear, I am not sure that ProRes Raw mater at all. Granted BRAW many not be a real “Raw” for many, but, I have internal RAW, and I can grade with ISO/WB on Pr / resolve on both PC and Mac… At the end BRAW is a better bargain, at least for me.