FGV Schmidle have done it: added a PL mount and modified Canon’s EOS 1D MKIV.

The mirror cage is replaced by a new FGV stainless steel sensor carrier that minimizes flange focal depth variation from temperature changes.

The Canon 1D Mk IV is especially interesting for cinematographers because its 16 Megapixel APS-H sensor (27.9 x 18.6 mm) comes closest to the Super 35mm 4-perf film format. It records H.264 1080p at 24, 25 or 30 fps and 720p at 50 and 60 fps.

The sensor holder, PL mount and base plate are one integral piece, which assures consistent images with all lenses and accessories.

The baseplate accepts 15mm lightweight support rods (comes with 120 and 240 mm rods) for lens control systems, follow focus or matte boxes.

The FGV PL1D accepts all 35mm cine lenses that fit on an Arriflex camera, as well as Angénieux Rouge Zooms.

The green button on the back of the camera is a welcome addition. Push it to switch the camera to Live View Mode, as well as start/stop video recording.  A 3-pin Fischer ARRI-style RS connector lets you start and stop the camera remotely. (It does not provide power output.)

The package comes with a riser plate that centers the lens for use with a 35mm bridge plate. Still photography using Live View and manual focus is still possible in Manual or Automatic Exposure Mode, since the shutter unit remains in the camera.

The FGV PL1D package includes the Canon EOS camera body with PL-Mount, a 15mm Light Weight Support with two pairs of roods (120mm / 240mm), a riser plate to fit a 35mm bridge plate, Canon battery and charger, as well as the FGV cable protector with one HDMI interface cable and AV cable.

Price is around 8,850 Euros, and comes with a one-year FGV warranty.