SINGAPORE – The rumours are true. Canon’s flagship 5D series is pointing towards ultra-high megapixel models, which will make it easier to produce images at a quality close to that of medium format cameras.

Putting to rest speculations over its 5D Mark III replacement, Canon today (Feb 6) officially announced the launch of two 50.6-megapixel 35mm full-frame CMOS sensor cameras — the EOS 5DSR and EOS 5DS — that pack more than double the megapixel of the 5D Mark III.

This means that images from the cameras can be dramatically cropped, but still retain optimum quality and details for print.

Weighing 15g lighter than the Mark III at 845g, the two models also come with a new Crop Shooting function that offers users the option to crop images for a pseudo telescopic effect when a longer lens is not available. With the 1.3x and 1.6x crop modes, users can still capture stunningly high 30.5-megapixel and 19.6 megapixel images respectively.

However, as the pixel count is increased, the effect of camera-shake usually becomes more apparent. To counteract that, the two models feature a new system that suppresses mirror vibrations when it is in motion, and a Release Time Lag Arbitrary setting that can help start the exposure only after the mirror opens.

Both also come with the latest dual DIGIC 6 image processors that were first placed into Canon’s last release, the 7D.

The only difference between the two models is the standard optical low-pass filter (LPF) fitted in the 5DS that can resolve any unwanted visual distortion, otherwise known as moiré effect, while the 5DSR only carries an LPF effect cancellation feature.

Excited chatters have erupted among the professional circles, and the only question mark left is the price of the two cameras, which will only be announced at a later date.