Canon 5D Mk IV Review

February 12th, 2017

The Canon 5D Mark IV is one of the hottest DSLRs for serious underwater photographers and videographers. Many pros had their hands on the camera as soon as it was made available, and now that housings from the major manufacturers are available, the camera is being taken on dives around the world.

The new pro-sumer DSLR is built around a brand new 30.4 megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor and incorporates Canon's dual-pixel autofocus technology (thanks Canon!!). In short, this delivers quick, reliable autofocus when shooting video in live view mode, and of course, lighting quick AF when shooting through the viewfinder. Additionally, the Canon 5D Mark IV boats a DIGIC 6+ processor, 4k video at 30fps, Full HD video at 60fps, 61 AF points (41 cross-type), touch panel LCD, and enhanced high ISO performance.

The Canon 5D Mk IV has a big legacy to step into. So does it live up to the hype? Find out in our detailed camera review below, as well as auxillary reviews by pro underwater photographers.

Status: Shipping now

MSRP: $3,499 USD (body only)

Canon 5D Mark IV Specifications

30.4 Megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor
DIGIC 6+ image processor
Dual-pixel AF sensor and continuous servo AF for stills
AF point: 61 points (41 cross-type)
Dual Pixel RAW recording (image microadjustment & bokeh shift capabilities)
ISO: 100–32,000; expandable up to 50–102,400
Continuous shooting: 7 frames / sec.
4K video recording at 30fps (motion jpeg, DCI standard), Full HD at 60fps (All-I), HD at 120 fps (All-I)
150,000-pixel RGB + IR metering sensor
1.62M dot 3.2" touch LCD
Anti-flicker mode
Interval timer (finally, thank you Canon! :- )
Built-in GPS, Wi-Fi · NFC connection
Media: SDXC / SDHC / SD (UHS-I enabled), CompactFlash
The main terminal: USB 3.0, Mini-HDMI
Size: 116mm X 151mm X 76mm
Weight: 890g

Read each complete review section on the Underwater Photography Guide:

5D Mk IV Specs | Highlights for Underwater Use | Body and Controls

Full Frame or Crop Sensor? | Underwater Image Quality Tests

Dual-Pixel RAW Tests | DSLR Spec Comparison

Thoughts for u/w Photo & Video | Best Lenses | 5D Mk IV Housings |

Conclusion

Pro Photographer Field Reviews | Underwater Video Review

A California kelp forest scene shot on the Canon 5D Mk IV with Tokina 10-17mm fisheye behind an 8" acryllic dome port. Lit with dual Sea&Sea YS-D1 strobes. Photo: Brent Durand

Catalina Island reef shot on the Canon 5D Mk IV with Tokina 10-17mm fisheye behind a 4" glass dome port. Lit with dual Sea&Sea YS-D1 strobes. Photo: Brent Durand

5D Mark IV Reviews

The Underwater Photography Guide is reviewing the Canon 5D Mark IV for underwater photo and video. You can read these detailed reviews at the links below:

Canon 5D Mark IV Camera Review
Canon 5D Mark IV Underwater Video Review
Review: Canon 5D Mk IV with Ikelite Dry Lock Port System (by David Fleetham)
Review: Canon 5D Mk IV in Aquatica Housing (by Andy Sallmon)

Canon 5D Mark IV Underwater Housings

The first Canon 5D Mark IV housings are now in some of our clients' hands, with more becomming available each week. Below are the options for housing your 5DMk4.