This is HUGE news from Canon. I am going to predict that within 18 months, there will be no digital SLR still cameras available without HD video. Way to go Canon!

Media Alert
***EMBARGOED UNTIL 27th May 2009 03:00 CET***

Canon Enables Manual Exposure in Video on
EOS 5D Mark II

LONDON, UK, 27th May 2009: Canon announced today it will release a firmware
update for the EOS 5D Mark II allowing users to manually control exposure when
shooting video. The new firmware will be available for download from 2 June 2009 on
Canon Europe’s support web site.
Following the launch of the EOS 5D Mark II in September 2008, Canon’s Research and
Development team has listened closely to customer feedback to develop additions to
the camera’s movie recording functionality.

Allowing EOS 5D Mark II owners to achieve even more stunning video results with the
camera, the firmware update will include the following manual controls when shooting
video:
• Full aperture selection
• ISO speed: Auto, 100 – 6400 and H1
• Shutter speed: 1/30th – 1/4000th second

The EOS 5D Mark II integrates full HD movie capability into a high-end 21.1 Megapixel
camera; opening a multitude of new possibilities for photo-journalists and news
photographers. Since its launch the camera has proved its appeal to professionals
working in diverse fields, from studio and wedding to nature and travel. Now,
following customer feedback, Canon has improved functionality for professional video
users, further unleashing the potential of the EOS 5D Mark II for cinematographers and
photographers alike.

- ENDS -