Canon C100 Dual Pixel Upgrade: What to Know

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"I love when I get shots that are out of focus," said no one ever.

Ask any photographer or videographer, a solid autofocus is high on the list of must-haves when it comes to purchasing new camera equipment. So when we heard about the new Dual Pixel Upgrade in the Canon EOS C100 Cinema Camera, we were pretty excited that this Canon technology has made its way to video. (Canon introduced the Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology in July of last year when they released the new Canon 70D.)

So what does the Canon Dual Pixel Upgrade mean for the C100? Basically, it means that you’re going to get crazy good autofocus that is smooth, accurate, and fast while being able to use a very wide range of Canon lenses. But before we keep going, let’s chat about exactly what Dual Pixel CMOS AF is.

Canon C100 Dual Pixel Upgrade

What is Dual Pixel CMOS AF?

"Dual Pixel CMOS AF is a sensor-based, phase detection autofocus (AF) technology designed to provide smooth, high-performance continuous focus in movies" and photos. As we previously mentioned, this Canon-developed technology was first seen in the 70D and has now been introduced as an upgrade for the Canon C100. This Canon autofocus allows filmmakers to capture a subject with unmatched, sharp focus even while the subject is moving.

How does Dual Pixel CMOS AF work?

Each pixel features two separate photodiodes and signals from each photodiode are detected and used as a phase-difference detection AF sensor. By continuously comparing their outputs during AF mode, phase-difference autofocus helps ensure non-blurred images and smooth focus transitions even when the talent and/or camera are moving.

After this modification, the EOS C100 camera's Continuous AF function active area represents 20% of the image vertically and 25% horizontally, yielding a very large, centrally located autofocus zone. The AF lock mode allows you to set focus and hold it, allowing you to change framing while maintaining the original point of focus.

What are the benefits of Dual Pixel CMOS AF?

The new Dual Pixel feature places a high priority on maintaining sharp focus while, providing a natural, smooth autofocus movement with select Canon EF lenses. Some of the benefits include:

Smooth and consistent autofocus
Natural looking focus transitions
Subjects stay in focus even while moving
Compatibility with Canon EF autofocus lenses (wide range of creative options)
Camera can determine which direction to initially drive the lens resulting in reduced focused hunting
Faster focus up acquisition
Focus twice as fast as an unmodified camera
No focus overshooting

Canon C100 Dual Pixel Upgrade

Which lenses are compatible with Dual Pixel CMOS AF?

Dual Pixel CMOS AF provides continuous autofocus with any EF lens, spanning EF and EF-S, fixed focal length, wide-angle, and telephoto lenses. One-shot AF operation is supported by 104 different EF lenses, which you can view here.

How can I get the Canon C100 Dual Pixel Upgrade?

Send your Canon C100 camera right along to an accredited Canon service center and Canon will add the upgrade to your C100 for $500. Note that shipping and handling charges may apply. You can contact Canon by emailing or calling.

Email: [email protected]
Phone: 1-855-CINE-EOS