A cinema camera is a huge investment, but necessary to take your filmmaking to the next level. Choosing one that is Netflix-approved ensures the best reliability and flexibility to give voice to your creative needs. Learn about the different Netflix-approved Cinema EOS cameras in this article.
First things first: What does “Netflix-approved camera” mean?
A “Netflix-approved” camera is one that Netflix has authorised to be used as a primary camera for its Netflix Originals. 90% of a programme’s final total runtime must be captured on such cameras.
Such cameras must pass stringent internal evaluation by Netflix’s technical experts before they can be included on the “approved” list, so you can expect a high level of performance and reliability to support your creative needs. So even if you don’t foresee shooting a Netflix Original production anytime soon, choosing a Netflix-approved camera still has its advantages. And you'll be well-equipped if and when the Netflix Original opportunity calls!
The minimum specifications for Netflix approval
While meeting the minimum specifications does not guarantee that a camera will be approved by Netflix, all approved cameras have at least the following attributes:
- A true 4K UHD image sensor (during non-anamorphic shooting), with at least 3840 photosites along the width
- At least 10-bit colour depth
- Uncompressed/lightly compressed RAW video recording OR intraframe compressed codec with subsampling of 4:2:2 or greater.
- Minimum data rate of 240Mbps at 24 fps
- Scene-referred colour space
- Scene-referred transfer function (Log recording)
- Dedicated timecode output
Cameras with these specifications are capable of recording in formats that retain an immense amount of colour detail with minimal quality loss even with extensive post-production work. They also enable a colour-managed workflow, where colours look accurate across various displays and delivery formats throughout post-production.
A dedicated timecode terminal allows easy synchronisation of all the cameras and audio recorders in a multi-camera setup.
In addition, Netflix also evaluates the cameras for attributes such as:
- Dynamic range
- Form factor
- Workflow compatibility
- Stability
Find out more about how Netflix evaluates cameras in:
Approved Cameras – Behind the Scenes
Which Netflix-approved Cinema EOS camera to choose?
There are currently 8 Canon Cinema EOS cameras on Netflix’s approved list:
- EOS R5 C
- EOS C70
- EOS C300 Mark II
- EOS C300 Mark III
- EOS C500
- EOS C500 Mark II
- EOS C700
- EOS C700 FF
The cameras vary in terms of form factor, functionality, output capabilities, and budget. You should be able to find something that works for you, whether you are looking for a smaller DSLR-like body for run-and-gun shoots or a modular system that can be expanded for large-scale productions.
Comparison of key features
R5 C | C70 | C300 Mark III | C500 Mark II | |
Maximum resolution | 8K 60p 4K 120P |
4K DCI 60p 4K UHD 120p |
4K DCI 4K 120p |
5.9K 60p |
Sensor type | Full-frame | Super 35mm DGO | Super 35mm DGO | Full-frame |
Dynamic range | 14+ stops | 16+ stops | 16+ stops | 15+ stops |
Processor | DIGIC X | DIGIC X | DIGIC DG 7 | DIGIC DG 7 |
Internal recording formats | Cinema RAW light XF-AVC MP4 |
Cinema RAW Light XF-AVC MP4 |
Cinema RAW Light XF-AVC |
Cinema RAW Light XF-AVC |
Lens mount | RF | RF | EF/PL | EF/PL |
Canon Log modes | Canon Log 3 | Canon Log 2 & 3 | Canon Log 2 & 3 | Canon Log 2 & 3 |
HDR | PQ, HLG | PQ, HLG | PQ, HLG | PQ, HLG |
High Frame Rate | 120p (4K) | 120p (4K) 180p (2K) | 120p (4K) 180p (2K) | 120p (2K, cropped) |
Slow frame rate | 1p | 12p | 12p | 1p (2K, cropped) |
Anamorphic lens support | 2x / 1.8x / 1.3x | 2x / 1.3x | 2x / 1.8x / 1.3x | 2x / 1.8x / 1.3x |
Form factor | DSLR-like | DSLR-like | Modular | Modular |
ND filter |
|
10 stops | 10 stops | 10 stops |
Image stabilisation | 5-axis (electronic) | 5-axis (electronic) | 5-axis (electronic) | 5-axis (electronic) |
Built-in EVF | Yes |
|
|
|
Touchscreen | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Card slots | CFexpress Type B x 1 SD x 1 |
SD x 2 | CFexpress Type B x 2 SD x 1 |
CFexpress Type B x 2 SD x 1 |
Audio | 4-channel | 4-channel | 4-channel | 4-channel |
Here are more details about four of the latest cameras.
1. The hybrid powerhouse: EOS R5 C
Outstanding features
- 45-megapixel full-frame CMOS image sensor
- RF mount
- 8K 60p RAW internal recording
- EVF
- AF and audio recording (.wav file) at high frame rates
- Eye Detection AF & EOS iTR AF X tracking
- Multi-function hot shoe mount
Considered Canon’s first true hybrid camera, the EOS R5 C is the most compact and lightweight in the Cinema EOS lineup and also its smallest cinema camera with a full-frame sensor. It shoots up to 8K 60p RAW internally, which provides future-proofing as well as extra post-production flexibility. On top of all that, it is also a powerful, 45-megapixel still photography camera, boasting the same performance as the EOS R5.
The multi-function shoe supports external audio accessories such as XLR microphones.
The electronic viewfinder aids vision when shooting under bright sunlight, where the glare can make it hard to see the rear LCD screen or an external monitor.
2. Compact versatility: EOS C70
Outstanding features
- Compact DSLR-like form factor
- Dual Gain Output (DGO) sensor
- RF mount
- Eye Detection AF & EOS iTR AF X tracking
- AF and audio recording at high frame rates
- 2 mini-XLR input terminals
The EOS C70 has many similarities with the EOS R5 C, including a DSLR-like form factor, the new RF lens mount and Eye Detection AF and EOS iTR AF X subject tracking. However, it has a larger 16+-stop dynamic range due to the Dual Gain Output (DGO) technology used in its 4K Super 35mm image sensor, thus generating cleaner HDR output. It offers extensive options for simultaneous recording to its two SD cards. Audio recording at normal frame rates is possible during high frame rate 4K 120p recording.
The EOS C70 features built-in options such as a 10-stop ND filter, also found on higher-end Cinema EOS cameras, and two mini-XLR terminals that allow more accessories to be connected.
EF lenses can be attached via the Mount Adapter EF-EOS R 0.71x, which allows users to enjoy the lens at its original focal length. It also allows for a 1-stop gain in light transmission.
3. Taking filmmaking to a higher level: EOS C300 Mark III
Outstanding features
- Super 35mm 4K Dual Gain Output (DGO) sensor
- Compact, versatile modular design
- EF mount
- Optional PL/EF Cinema Lock mount (user-changeable)
- 12G-SDI Out terminal
- Full-size XLR terminals
Cinema cameras with a modular body system like the EOS C300 Mark III allow greater flexibility to configure the camera to your needs, scaling up or down as necessary. In its most basic configuration, the EOS C300 Mark III is compact enough for handheld shooting and can be easily rigged to a gimbal or drone. Optional extension units can be purchased for various production requirements such as live productions and multi-camera broadcasts.
On both the EOS C300 Mark III and EOS C500 Mark II, you can change the default EF mount to a PL mount or EF Cinema Lock mount (sold separately) on your own, without having to take the camera to a service centre.
In its bare bones configuration, the EOS C300 Mark III can be easily rigged onto a drone.
4. Full frame, full flexibility: EOS C500 Mark II
Outstanding features
- 5.9K full-frame CMOS sensor
- EF mount
- Optional PL/EF Cinema Lock mount (user-changeable)
- Netflix approved for anamorphic capture
- Slow/fast motion from 1p to 120p in 2K (crop) mode
- 12G-SDI Out terminal
- Full-size XLR terminals
The EOS C500 Mark II’s 5.9K full-frame sensor is the key difference that sets it apart from the EOS C300 Mark III. Enjoy the detail of higher-resolution RAW capture, as well as high-quality oversampled 4K footage! The larger sensor also lets you take fuller advantage of anamorphic lenses with a higher squeeze factor. Fast-motion recording capabilities go down to 1p in 2K (crop) mode.
The EOS C500 Mark II and EOS C300 Mark III are both equipped with an advanced 12G-SDI interface, which enables 4K 50p/60p output over a single cable. This is in addition to the HDMI interface, which is also capable of the same output.
Control focus intuitively with the bundled 4.3-inch LCD monitor LM-V2, which offers touchscreen operations.
Get in touch to find out more about these cameras!