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Canon’s RF 85mm F2 Macro IS STM is ideal for close-ups and portraits

13 Jul

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The Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro IS STM is a relatively inexpensive telephoto prime lens that’s ideal for both close-up and portrait work. Ostensibly it appears similar in design to the RF 35mm F1.8 IS STM, and together with the RF 35/1.8, should make for a compelling package for wedding photographers wanting to shoot everything from groups to close-up portraits to macro detail shots. The RF 85mm can focus as close as 0.35m (13.8″) and offers a maximum magnification of 0.5x.

Optically, the lens comprises 12 elements in 11 groups, including one UD (ultra low dispersion) element to help reduce chromatic aberrations. On an EOS R or RP, the 85mm F2 offers five stops of image stabilization, but when you attach it to an EOS R5 or R6, with their built-in stabilization systems, Canon claims a benefit of eight stops thanks to the two-way communication between motion and gyro sensors in the camera body and lens. It uses a stepping motor to drive its focus group, so autofocus speeds are unlikely to be as fast as the company’s lenses with Nano USM focus drive systems, and it remains to be seen if focus drive is silent.

The lens is relatively compact, featuring a 67mm filter thread and weighing in at 500g / 1.1lbs. Nine aperture blades aid in producing circular out-of-focus highlights. The lens is not weather-sealed – you’ll need to step up (way up) to the F1.2 version for that.

The Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro IS STM will be available in October for $ 599.

Press release:

THE SECRET IS OUT: CANON OFFICIALLY ANNOUNCES THE CANON EOS R5 AND R6, THE COMPANY’S MOST ADVANCED FULL-FRAME MIRRORLESS CAMERAS EVER

The Company is Also Announcing Four RF Lenses, Two RF Lens Extenders, and a PRO Printer

MELVILLE, N.Y., July 9, 2020 – With anticipation at a fever pitch, Canon U.S.A. Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, is excited to introduce the company’s next generation of full-frame mirrorless cameras – the EOS R5 and EOS R6. These groundbreaking cameras are the result of many years of collecting and listening to feedback from Canon users and are sure to meet the needs and demands of a variety of creators. The EOS R5 is a camera designed for professional applications featuring a new 45-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor and uncropped 8K video recording up to 29.97 fps. The EOS R6 is geared towards advanced amateurs featuring a 20.1-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor and 4K video recording up to 59.94 fps. The addition of the EOS R5 and the EOS R6 cameras within the EOS R series lineup further solidifies Canon’s commitment to providing the equipment needed for users to bring their content to the next level.

Canon is also introducing four RF lenses and two RF lens extenders: The Canon RF100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM, Canon RF600mm F11 IS STM, Canon RF800mm F11 IS STM, and RF85mm F2 MACRO IS STM lenses. All four new lenses were designed to meet the ever-expanding demands of the skilled creatives who capture amazing imagery using EOS R series cameras, including the new EOS R5 and EOS R6. In addition to the lenses, there are two new RF lens extenders, a 1.4x and a 2x model, allowing for users to take their compatible RF lens focal lengths even farther, and a 13-inch professional printer, the imagePROGRAF PRO-300, to bring photos to life through the power of print.

“For all of the Canon research and development team members who worked tirelessly on the production of these new products, today marks the culmination of a long journey. For those people looking for the next great tools to work with to expand their creative possibilities, the door is now wide open,” said Tatsuro “Tony” Kano, Executive Vice President and General Manager of Canon U.S.A.’s Imaging Technologies & Communications Group. “The industry has asked for new products that can push their levels of creativity to new heights, and we are confident that the EOS R5 and EOS R6, alongside the new lenses, lens extenders, and the pro printer, will fulfill those needs and more.”

Canon EOS R5 and EOS R6
Both the EOS R5 and EOS R6 cameras have the ability to capture the action of a variety of fast-moving subjects with impressive accuracy and speed. When using the mechanical shutter, each can shoot up to 12 fps and up to 20 fps when using the completely silent shutter. Both cameras are the first to be outfitted with Canon’s advanced Dual Pixel CMOS AF II which utilizes up to approximately100 percent coverage of the AF area and EOS iTR AF X incorporating AF tracking algorithms using deep learning technology and enhanced readout speed of the CMOS sensor and processing speed thanks to the DIGIC X image processor. The 1,053 automatically selected AF Zones are made even more potent by the ability to detect the human eye, face or head as well as the eye, face or body of animals such as dogs, cats and even birds. Adding to the feature set is the 5-axis In-Body Image Stabilizer, having coordinated control with Optical Image Stabilizer in IS equipped RF lenses. This provides up to 8 stops of shake correction, a feature that many creators have long asked for from Canon. Both the EOS R5 and R6 cameras come with a new LP-E6NH battery with a higher capacity than the previous model.

As the new flagship model in the EOS R series lineup, the EOS R5 camera has features that pack a punch for a variety of users who create both still and video content. It has a powerful 45-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor and is driven by the speedy DIGIC X image processor, giving wide dynamic range as well as boasting an ISO range of 100-51,200 that is expandable up to 102,400. In a camera full of eye-popping features, one that really stands out is the ability to record uncropped 8K RAW internal video recording up to 29.97 fps and 8K internal video recording up to 29.97 fps in 4:2:2 10-bit Canon Log (H.265)/4:2:2 10-bit HDR PQ (H.265). The camera can also record 4K internal video recording up to 119.88 fps in 4:2:2 10-bit Canon Log (H.265)/4:2:2 10-bit HDR PQ (H.265). External recording in 4K is also available up to 59.94 fps. When in DCI modes, the 8K and 4K video recording is uncropped and Dual Pixel CMOS AF II is available in all 8K and 4K recording modes. Additional features of the EOS R5 camera include:

  • Dual-card slots: 1x CFexpress and 1x SD UHS-II
  • Built-in 0.5-inch OLED EVF with approximately 5.76 million dots and a 119.88 fps refresh rate
  • 3.2-inch 2.1 million dots vari-angle LCD touch screen
  • 5GHz/2.4GHz Built-in Wi-Fi® and Bluetooth Technology with the ability to utilize the image.canon application, as well as optional WFT-R10A wireless file transmitter with Ethernet support
  • Enhanced operating controls such as rear-dial, multi-controller • The ability to voice tag photos and videos
  • Weather, drip and dust sealing on par with the EOS 5D series

The EOS R6 camera is well-equipped with a host of new features to push the limits of creativity for imaging enthusiasts. The combination of the EOS-1D X Mark III based 20.1-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor and the DIGIC X image processor produces an ISO range of 100-102,400 and is expandable to 204,800. Internal video recording at 4K is capable up to 59.94 fps or 1080p up to 119.88 fps in 10 bit 4:2:2 Canon Log(H.265) or HDR PQ(H.265). The camera also features a built-in 0.5-inch OLED EVF with approximately 3.69 million dots and a 119.88 fps refresh ratevi. Additional features of the EOS R6 camera include:

  • Dual UHS-II SD card slots
  • 3-inch 1.62 million dots vari-angle LCD touch screen
  • 2.4GHz Built-in Wi-Fi®vii and Bluetooth Technologyviii with the ability to utilize the image.canon application
  • Enhanced operating controls such as rear-dial, multi-controller
  • Weather, drip and dust sealing on par with the EOS 6D series

Battery Accessory
The optional BG-R10 battery grip accessory will be available for both the EOS R5 and EOS R6 full-frame mirrorless cameras. The BG-R10 accommodates up to two batteries and is compatible with the new LP-E6NH, LP-E6N and LP-E6 batteries. The convenient BG-R10 grip accessory can also improve handling for users while capturing portrait photography.

Canon RF100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM
The Canon RF100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM is a high-performance and versatile super-telephoto zoom lens that will find its way into the bags of many photographers. The compact and lightweight lens features optical image stabilization of up to five stops* of shake correction with three different IS modes, including standard, panning and during exposure only. Two Nano USM motors are at the heart of this lens and provide users with high-speed, smooth and quiet auto focus with a minimum focusing distance of three feet. Additional features of the Canon RF100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM include:

  • Rotation-Type zoom ring and torque adjustment allows for precision control and feel
  • Customizable control ring that enables photographers to adjust exposure compensation, shutter speed, aperture or ISO
  • 12-pin Communication System
  • Canon L-Series grade dust and weather-resistant construction with a fluorine coating
  • Lens hood with side window allows specialty filters to be adjusted even while Lens Hood is attached
  • Compatible with the new 1.4x and 2x RF lens extenders (from 300 to 500mm focal length)

Canon RF600mm and 800mm F11 IS STM
The Canon RF600mm and RF800mm F11 IS STM lenses are the first fixed focal length super-telephoto RF lenses and are incredibly compact and lightweight. The portability of the new lenses is made even greater due to the ability for the lens barrel to retract and lock in place when the lenses are stowed away and not in use. Diffractive Optics technology helps to reduce the necessary number of lenses and greatly diminish the cost of the lenses, making them affordable for a broader group of photographers. Additional features of the Canon RF600mm and RF800mm F11 IS STM lenses include:

  • Lightweight – the RF600mm weighs approximately 2.05lb and the RF800mm weighs approximately 2.78lb, respectively
  • Compact size, RF600mm measures approximately 7.85inch and RF800mm with measures approximately 11.09inch when retracted, respectively
  • Fixed f/11 aperture
  • Optical image stabilization of five stops* for the RF600mm and four stops* for the RF800mm of Shake Correction
  • Lead screw-type STM enables smooth auto focusing for still-image and video shooting
  • Customizable control ring that allows photographers to adjust exposure compensation, shutter speed, aperture or ISO
  • 12-pin Communication System
  • Compatible with the new 1.4x and 2x RF lens extenders

Canon RF85mm F2 MACRO IS STM
The third RF85mm lens in the RF lineup, the Canon RF85mm F2 MACRO IS STM is compact and lightweight, featuring a bright f/2 aperture helping to capture images that have exceptional bokeh. The lens features a maximum magnification of 0.5x and a minimum focusing distance of 1.15 feet, providing users with macro-photography capability. Additional features of the Canon RF85mm F2 MACRO IS STM include:

  • Optical Image Stabilization with up to five stops* of Shake Correction
  • Hybrid IS compensates for angular and shift camera shake during macro photography
  • Control Ring for Direct Setting Changes.
  • 12-pin Communication System
  • Nine blade Circular Aperture

RF Lens Extenders
Lens extenders have long been a practical and useful tool for a variety of photographers. That story continues with the introduction of the Extender RF 1.4x and Extender RF 2x. The new lens extenders inherit the same high image quality, precision AF and reliability, such as being drip and dustproof, of EF lens extenders. When used in combination with the newly-released compatible lenses, the capturing range can be dramatically increased, providing consumers with additional use cases for their existing RF lenses.

Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-300
Completing the lineup of professional printer options from 13 inches through 60 inches, Canon also unveiled today the new 13-inch Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-300 Inkjet Printer along with a new Premium Fine Art Rough paper. Providing an improved workflow and high-quality output within a smaller footprint compared to previous models, this new printer excels at professional printing performance. Combined with the new Premium Fine Art Rough paper that features a textured surface to express the depth of an image, the printer along with the paper and new EOS R5 or EOS R6 camera introduces a new powerhouse professional imaging trio that meets creators’ demands.

Pricing and Availability
The EOS R5 full-frame mirrorless camera is scheduled to be available at the end of July for an estimated retail price of $ 3899.00 for the body only and $ 4999.00 for the R5 and RF 24-105mm F4 L IS USM lens kit**.

The EOS R6 full-frame mirrorless camera is scheduled to be available at the end of August for an estimated retail price of $ 2499.00 for the body only, $ 2.899.00 for the R6 and RF 24-105 F4-7.1 IS STM lens kit or $ 3,599.00 for the R6 and RF 24-105mm F4 L IS USM lens kit**.

The BG-R10 battery grip accessory and WFT-R10A are both scheduled to be available at the end of July for an estimated retail price of $ 349.99 and $ 999.99**, respectively.

The RF100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM lens is scheduled to be available in September 2020 for an estimated retail price of $ 2,699.00. The RF600mm F11 IS STM and RF800mm F11 IS STM lenses are scheduled to be available at the end of July 2020 for an estimated retail price of $ 699.99 and $ 899.99, respectively. The RF85mm F2 MACRO IS STM lens is scheduled to be available in October 2020 for an estimated retail price of $ 599.99 **.

The RF Extender 1.4x and 2x are scheduled to be available at the end of July for an estimated retail price of $ 499.99 and $ 599.99** each.

The imagePROGRAF PRO-300 Printer will be available later in July for a suggested retail price of $ 899.99. Premium Fine Art Rough paper will also be available later in July for a suggested retail price of $ 44.99 for Letter size, $ 109.99 for 13” x 19” inches and $ 169.99, 17” x 22” inches**.

For more information please visit, www.usa.canon.com/virtualproductlaunch

** Specifications, availability and prices are subject to change without notice. Actual prices are set by individual dealers and may vary.

Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro IS STM specifications

Principal specifications
Lens type Prime lens
Max Format size 35mm FF
Focal length 85 mm
Image stabilization Yes
Lens mount Canon RF
Aperture
Maximum aperture F2
Number of diaphragm blades 9
Optics
Elements 12
Groups 11
Special elements / coatings One UD lens
Focus
Minimum focus 0.35 m (13.78″)
Maximum magnification 0.5×
Autofocus Yes
Physical
Weight 500 g (1.10 lb)
Diameter 78 mm (3.07″)
Length 91 mm (3.56″)
Colour Black
Filter thread 67 mm

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Canon’s 100-500mm F4.5-7.1L IS USM is the first super-zoom for RF-mount

13 Jul

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Canon’s RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1L IS USM is the company’s first super-zoom lens for the RF-mount. It’s not the fastest lens in the lineup, but it’s certainly the most versatile RF optic for sports and wildlife photography. The lens’s IS system can reduce camera shake by up to five stops, and there are three IS modes to choose from: standard, panning or active during exposure. When paired with the in-body image stabilization systems of the EOS R5 / R6 bodies, the system is capable of around six EV of total stabilization.

Optically the lens comprises 20 elements in 14 groups. Six elements are ‘UD’ (ultra low dispersion) while one is ‘Super UD’. These elements help reduce chromatic aberrations. The two focus groups are driven by their own Nano USM motor for fast and silent autofocus. The lens extends while zooming, and the torque can be adjusted, or the zoom ring locked. Even with the extension of the lens, Canon claims that it is well-sealed against dust and moisture.

The RF 100-500mm lens offers a maximum magnification ratio of 0.12x and 0.33x at its wide and telephoto ends, respectively. Nine aperture blades help retain circular out-of-focus highlights as you stop the lens down. The lens accepts 77mm filters and weighs a fairly substantial 1365g (3lbs).

The 100-500mm is compatible with Canon’s new RF 1.4x and 2x teleconverters, though the lens must be set to 300mm or longer before one can be attached. A physical hard stop prevents the user from accidentally zooming out past 300mm with these teleconverters.

The 100-500mm F4.5-7.1L IS USM will be available in September for $ 2699.

Press release:

THE SECRET IS OUT: CANON OFFICIALLY ANNOUNCES THE CANON EOS R5 AND R6, THE COMPANY’S MOST ADVANCED FULL-FRAME MIRRORLESS CAMERAS EVER

The Company is Also Announcing Four RF Lenses, Two RF Lens Extenders, and a PRO Printer

MELVILLE, N.Y., July 9, 2020 – With anticipation at a fever pitch, Canon U.S.A. Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, is excited to introduce the company’s next generation of full-frame mirrorless cameras – the EOS R5 and EOS R6. These groundbreaking cameras are the result of many years of collecting and listening to feedback from Canon users and are sure to meet the needs and demands of a variety of creators. The EOS R5 is a camera designed for professional applications featuring a new 45-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor and uncropped 8K video recording up to 29.97 fps. The EOS R6 is geared towards advanced amateurs featuring a 20.1-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor and 4K video recording up to 59.94 fps. The addition of the EOS R5 and the EOS R6 cameras within the EOS R series lineup further solidifies Canon’s commitment to providing the equipment needed for users to bring their content to the next level.

Canon is also introducing four RF lenses and two RF lens extenders: The Canon RF100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM, Canon RF600mm F11 IS STM, Canon RF800mm F11 IS STM, and RF85mm F2 MACRO IS STM lenses. All four new lenses were designed to meet the ever-expanding demands of the skilled creatives who capture amazing imagery using EOS R series cameras, including the new EOS R5 and EOS R6. In addition to the lenses, there are two new RF lens extenders, a 1.4x and a 2x model, allowing for users to take their compatible RF lens focal lengths even farther, and a 13-inch professional printer, the imagePROGRAF PRO-300, to bring photos to life through the power of print.

“For all of the Canon research and development team members who worked tirelessly on the production of these new products, today marks the culmination of a long journey. For those people looking for the next great tools to work with to expand their creative possibilities, the door is now wide open,” said Tatsuro “Tony” Kano, Executive Vice President and General Manager of Canon U.S.A.’s Imaging Technologies & Communications Group. “The industry has asked for new products that can push their levels of creativity to new heights, and we are confident that the EOS R5 and EOS R6, alongside the new lenses, lens extenders, and the pro printer, will fulfill those needs and more.”

Canon EOS R5 and EOS R6
Both the EOS R5 and EOS R6 cameras have the ability to capture the action of a variety of fast-moving subjects with impressive accuracy and speed. When using the mechanical shutter, each can shoot up to 12 fps and up to 20 fps when using the completely silent shutter. Both cameras are the first to be outfitted with Canon’s advanced Dual Pixel CMOS AF II which utilizes up to approximately100 percent coverage of the AF area and EOS iTR AF X incorporating AF tracking algorithms using deep learning technology and enhanced readout speed of the CMOS sensor and processing speed thanks to the DIGIC X image processor. The 1,053 automatically selected AF Zones are made even more potent by the ability to detect the human eye, face or head as well as the eye, face or body of animals such as dogs, cats and even birds. Adding to the feature set is the 5-axis In-Body Image Stabilizer, having coordinated control with Optical Image Stabilizer in IS equipped RF lenses. This provides up to 8 stops of shake correction, a feature that many creators have long asked for from Canon. Both the EOS R5 and R6 cameras come with a new LP-E6NH battery with a higher capacity than the previous model.

As the new flagship model in the EOS R series lineup, the EOS R5 camera has features that pack a punch for a variety of users who create both still and video content. It has a powerful 45-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor and is driven by the speedy DIGIC X image processor, giving wide dynamic range as well as boasting an ISO range of 100-51,200 that is expandable up to 102,400. In a camera full of eye-popping features, one that really stands out is the ability to record uncropped 8K RAW internal video recording up to 29.97 fps and 8K internal video recording up to 29.97 fps in 4:2:2 10-bit Canon Log (H.265)/4:2:2 10-bit HDR PQ (H.265). The camera can also record 4K internal video recording up to 119.88 fps in 4:2:2 10-bit Canon Log (H.265)/4:2:2 10-bit HDR PQ (H.265). External recording in 4K is also available up to 59.94 fps. When in DCI modes, the 8K and 4K video recording is uncropped and Dual Pixel CMOS AF II is available in all 8K and 4K recording modes. Additional features of the EOS R5 camera include:

  • Dual-card slots: 1x CFexpress and 1x SD UHS-II
  • Built-in 0.5-inch OLED EVF with approximately 5.76 million dots and a 119.88 fps refresh rate
  • 3.2-inch 2.1 million dots vari-angle LCD touch screen
  • 5GHz/2.4GHz Built-in Wi-Fi® and Bluetooth Technology with the ability to utilize the image.canon application, as well as optional WFT-R10A wireless file transmitter with Ethernet support
  • Enhanced operating controls such as rear-dial, multi-controller • The ability to voice tag photos and videos
  • Weather, drip and dust sealing on par with the EOS 5D series

The EOS R6 camera is well-equipped with a host of new features to push the limits of creativity for imaging enthusiasts. The combination of the EOS-1D X Mark III based 20.1-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor and the DIGIC X image processor produces an ISO range of 100-102,400 and is expandable to 204,800. Internal video recording at 4K is capable up to 59.94 fps or 1080p up to 119.88 fps in 10 bit 4:2:2 Canon Log(H.265) or HDR PQ(H.265). The camera also features a built-in 0.5-inch OLED EVF with approximately 3.69 million dots and a 119.88 fps refresh ratevi. Additional features of the EOS R6 camera include:

  • Dual UHS-II SD card slots
  • 3-inch 1.62 million dots vari-angle LCD touch screen
  • 2.4GHz Built-in Wi-Fi®vii and Bluetooth Technologyviii with the ability to utilize the image.canon application
  • Enhanced operating controls such as rear-dial, multi-controller
  • Weather, drip and dust sealing on par with the EOS 6D series

Battery Accessory
The optional BG-R10 battery grip accessory will be available for both the EOS R5 and EOS R6 full-frame mirrorless cameras. The BG-R10 accommodates up to two batteries and is compatible with the new LP-E6NH, LP-E6N and LP-E6 batteries. The convenient BG-R10 grip accessory can also improve handling for users while capturing portrait photography.

Canon RF100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM
The Canon RF100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM is a high-performance and versatile super-telephoto zoom lens that will find its way into the bags of many photographers. The compact and lightweight lens features optical image stabilization of up to five stops* of shake correction with three different IS modes, including standard, panning and during exposure only. Two Nano USM motors are at the heart of this lens and provide users with high-speed, smooth and quiet auto focus with a minimum focusing distance of three feet. Additional features of the Canon RF100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM include:

  • Rotation-Type zoom ring and torque adjustment allows for precision control and feel
  • Customizable control ring that enables photographers to adjust exposure compensation, shutter speed, aperture or ISO
  • 12-pin Communication System
  • Canon L-Series grade dust and weather-resistant construction with a fluorine coating
  • Lens hood with side window allows specialty filters to be adjusted even while Lens Hood is attached
  • Compatible with the new 1.4x and 2x RF lens extenders (from 300 to 500mm focal length)

Canon RF600mm and 800mm F11 IS STM
The Canon RF600mm and RF800mm F11 IS STM lenses are the first fixed focal length super-telephoto RF lenses and are incredibly compact and lightweight. The portability of the new lenses is made even greater due to the ability for the lens barrel to retract and lock in place when the lenses are stowed away and not in use. Diffractive Optics technology helps to reduce the necessary number of lenses and greatly diminish the cost of the lenses, making them affordable for a broader group of photographers. Additional features of the Canon RF600mm and RF800mm F11 IS STM lenses include:

  • Lightweight – the RF600mm weighs approximately 2.05lb and the RF800mm weighs approximately 2.78lb, respectively
  • Compact size, RF600mm measures approximately 7.85inch and RF800mm with measures approximately 11.09inch when retracted, respectively
  • Fixed f/11 aperture
  • Optical image stabilization of five stops* for the RF600mm and four stops* for the RF800mm of Shake Correction
  • Lead screw-type STM enables smooth auto focusing for still-image and video shooting
  • Customizable control ring that allows photographers to adjust exposure compensation, shutter speed, aperture or ISO
  • 12-pin Communication System
  • Compatible with the new 1.4x and 2x RF lens extenders

Canon RF85mm F2 MACRO IS STM
The third RF85mm lens in the RF lineup, the Canon RF85mm F2 MACRO IS STM is compact and lightweight, featuring a bright f/2 aperture helping to capture images that have exceptional bokeh. The lens features a maximum magnification of 0.5x and a minimum focusing distance of 1.15 feet, providing users with macro-photography capability. Additional features of the Canon RF85mm F2 MACRO IS STM include:

  • Optical Image Stabilization with up to five stops* of Shake Correction
  • Hybrid IS compensates for angular and shift camera shake during macro photography
  • Control Ring for Direct Setting Changes.
  • 12-pin Communication System
  • Nine blade Circular Aperture

RF Lens Extenders
Lens extenders have long been a practical and useful tool for a variety of photographers. That story continues with the introduction of the Extender RF 1.4x and Extender RF 2x. The new lens extenders inherit the same high image quality, precision AF and reliability, such as being drip and dustproof, of EF lens extenders. When used in combination with the newly-released compatible lenses, the capturing range can be dramatically increased, providing consumers with additional use cases for their existing RF lenses.

Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-300
Completing the lineup of professional printer options from 13 inches through 60 inches, Canon also unveiled today the new 13-inch Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-300 Inkjet Printer along with a new Premium Fine Art Rough paper. Providing an improved workflow and high-quality output within a smaller footprint compared to previous models, this new printer excels at professional printing performance. Combined with the new Premium Fine Art Rough paper that features a textured surface to express the depth of an image, the printer along with the paper and new EOS R5 or EOS R6 camera introduces a new powerhouse professional imaging trio that meets creators’ demands.

Pricing and Availability
The EOS R5 full-frame mirrorless camera is scheduled to be available at the end of July for an estimated retail price of $ 3899.00 for the body only and $ 4999.00 for the R5 and RF 24-105mm F4 L IS USM lens kit**.

The EOS R6 full-frame mirrorless camera is scheduled to be available at the end of August for an estimated retail price of $ 2499.00 for the body only, $ 2.899.00 for the R6 and RF 24-105 F4-7.1 IS STM lens kit or $ 3,599.00 for the R6 and RF 24-105mm F4 L IS USM lens kit**.

The BG-R10 battery grip accessory and WFT-R10A are both scheduled to be available at the end of July for an estimated retail price of $ 349.99 and $ 999.99**, respectively.

The RF100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM lens is scheduled to be available in September 2020 for an estimated retail price of $ 2,699.00. The RF600mm F11 IS STM and RF800mm F11 IS STM lenses are scheduled to be available at the end of July 2020 for an estimated retail price of $ 699.99 and $ 899.99, respectively. The RF85mm F2 MACRO IS STM lens is scheduled to be available in October 2020 for an estimated retail price of $ 599.99 **.

The RF Extender 1.4x and 2x are scheduled to be available at the end of July for an estimated retail price of $ 499.99 and $ 599.99** each.

The imagePROGRAF PRO-300 Printer will be available later in July for a suggested retail price of $ 899.99. Premium Fine Art Rough paper will also be available later in July for a suggested retail price of $ 44.99 for Letter size, $ 109.99 for 13” x 19” inches and $ 169.99, 17” x 22” inches**.

For more information please visit, www.usa.canon.com/virtualproductlaunch

** Specifications, availability and prices are subject to change without notice. Actual prices are set by individual dealers and may vary.

Canon 100-500mm F4.5-7.1L IS USM specifications

Principal specifications
Lens type Zoom lens
Max Format size 35mm FF
Focal length 100–500 mm
Image stabilization Yes
CIPA Image stabilization rating 4 stop(s)
Lens mount Canon RF
Aperture
Maximum aperture F4.5–7.1
Minimum aperture F32–54
Aperture ring No
Number of diaphragm blades 9
Optics
Elements 20
Groups 14
Special elements / coatings 1 Super UD + 6 UD elements
Focus
Minimum focus 0.90 m (35.43″)
Maximum magnification 0.33×
Autofocus Yes
Motor type Nano ultrasonic
DoF scale No
Physical
Weight 1365 g (3.01 lb)
Diameter 94 mm (3.69″)
Length 208 mm (8.17″)
Materials Magnesium alloy
Sealing Yes
Colour White
Zoom method Rotary (extending)
Filter thread 77 mm
Hood supplied Yes

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Hands-on with Canon’s new RF 85mm F2 Macro IS STM

10 Jul

Hands-on with Canon’s new RF85mm F2 Macro IS STM

Alongside a trio of telephoto lenses, Canon also announced a new 85mm this week. The RF 85mm F2 Macro IS STM is a compact, affordable alternative to the pro-oriented 85mm F1.2L, which can’t match the light-gathering power of its costly cousin, but adds optical image stabilization and a handy close-focusing ability. Not to mention it’s a whole lot easier to carry around.

Click through this article for a closer look at Canon’s sixth autofocus 85mm lens.

Size and weight

At 500g (1.1 lbs) the 85mm F2 is far from a featherweight, but it’s less than half the weight of the 85mm F1.2. It’s nicely-balanced, too, and doesn’t feel heavy on an EOS R6. The filter thread is a very reasonable 67mm, so no need to hunt around for expensive, larger, less common filters.

Ergonomics

The RF 85mm F2 features a pretty clean, matte black, low-key design, with a broad rubber-clad focus ring in the middle of the barrel (manual focus is focus-by-wire, as we’d expect) and a customizable ‘clicky’ control ring at the front, nearest to the filter ring. The two rings are textured differently to help differentiate them by touch.

There’s a lot of polycarbonate in the body of the lens (our copy is made in Malaysia, for those who care about such things), and overall build quality seems very high. It should be noted, however, that Canon makes no claims about weather-sealing in this lens.

Optical construction

The RF 85mm F2 Macro IS STM is a lot less of a handful than the F1.2L, but it’s still a pretty advanced, complex design. Optical construction comprises 12 elements in 11 groups, including one UD (ultra low-dispersion) element for chromatic aberration control. A nine-bladed aperture ensures that out of focus highlights will be rendered as near-circles when the lens is shot near or wide open. Canon claims ‘beautiful bokeh’ from this lens, which should be a favorite of portrait photographers.

Close focusing

The ‘Macro’ in the full product name of this lens refers to its close focusing abilities, and its maximum reproduction ratio of 0.5X. Technically this isn’t true macro (that would be 1:1 reproduction) but manufacturers (not only Canon) have been playing fast and loose with that word for years, so we’ll forgive it. Especially since this kind of close focusing ability (you can focus down to 1.1 ft, or 35 cm) is so impressive in a lens of this kind. For (near) macro work, you can lock the lens’s autofocus to a range of 0.5m – 0.35m to prevent hunting.

We expect this macro capability will make this lens a handy kit – particularly when paired with the RF 35mm F1.8 – for portrait and wedding photographers who can quickly go close in for detail shots.

Speaking of autofocus, like its shorter focal length RF 35 cousin, the RF 85mm F2 uses a stepping motor to drive its focus group. Given our past experience with Canon’s STM motors, we expect autofocus speeds are unlikely to be as fast as the company’s lenses with Nano USM focus drive systems, and it remains to be seen if focus drive is silent.

Image Stabilization

The RF 85mm F2 features optical image stabilization, rated to five stops of correction (per CIPA, tested on an EOS R). Canon claims that when mounted on an EOS R5 or R6, photographers can expect a combined stabilization effect of up to eight stops with this lens, which will be hugely beneficial for the kind of closeup work that the lens is capable of. Regardless of what body it’s attached to, the 85mm F2’s ‘Hybrid I.S’ system is designed specifically to help with the kinds of rotational and up/down left/right movements that can create problems at very close focusing distances.

We’re unable to test stabilization performance (or autofocus, or image quality) in this pre-production sample, but these are all things that we want to try out when we get an opportunity. In the meantime, let us know what you think of Canon’s latest portrait prime lens in the comments.

The RF 85mm F2 Macro IS STM lens is scheduled to be available in October 2020 for an estimated retail price of $ 599.99.

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Canon’s CE-SAT-IB satellite camera destroyed during Rocket Lab’s Electron rocket launch

06 Jul

Two weeks ago, we reported on Canon’s CE-SAT-IB satellite camera, which was set to be launched alongside six other satellites aboard Rocket Labs’ Electron vehicle as part of its ‘Pics or It Didn’t Happen Mission.’ And, well, whoever chose the mission’s name might want to choose something a little less ominous next time, as in keeping with the theme of 2020, it’s been reported all payloads were destroyed during ascent due to a rocket failure.

According to Rocket Lab, its Electron vehicle, which housed Canon’s Earth-imaging camera and six other satellites, failed late in its journey after taking off from Mahia Peninsula on North Island, New Zealand (Te Ika-a-M?ui)

The optical imaging system inside the CE-SAT-1B (pictured) is based on Canon’s EOS 5D Mark III design. Image via Canon

In a Twitter post shared on July 4, Rocket Lab CEO Peter Beck apologized to Rocket Lab customers, saying ‘I am incredibly sorry that we failed to deliver our customers’ satellites today. Rest assured we will find the issue, correct it and be back on the pad soon.’

No specific cause for the issue has been shared at this time, but the launch video, which was live-streamed for the world to see (and embedded below), shows the video feed from the Electron rocket cutting out just shy of six minutes into its flight. Not long after, you can hear a Rocket Lab team member say the less-than-inspiring phrase ‘initiating mishap response plan.’

In a press release, Rocket Lab further elaborated on the incident saying ‘Today’s anomaly is a reminder that space launch can be unforgiving […] The launch team operated with professionalism and expertise to implement systems and procedures that ensured the anomaly was managed safely.’

Rocket Lab is already in the process of getting future missions in place and Canon already has its CE-SAT-IIB satellite ready for a Rocket Lab mission later this year. We have contacted Canon for comment on the incident and will update this article accordingly if we receive a response.

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Canon’s New 1 MP SPAD Sensor Offers Potential for Highly-Sensitive Imaging

04 Jul

The post Canon’s New 1 MP SPAD Sensor Offers Potential for Highly-Sensitive Imaging appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Jaymes Dempsey.

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Canon has just announced the completion of a 1-megapixel single-photon avalanche diode (SPAD) image sensor, making it the first of its kind.

Traditional CMOS sensors work by capturing photons (i.e., particles of light), and converting them to charge (which are ultimately transformed into digital pixels).

That way, when you press the shutter button, your camera’s sensor starts capturing photons, with each photon equivalent to a very small amount of light. These photons are turned into pixels, so that areas of a scene that produce or reflect more light are rendered brightly compared to areas of a scene that produce or reflect less light.

Now, CMOS sensors only offer a certain level of sensitivity. If you shoot at 1/8000s, unless the light is unusually powerful, you’re not going to capture many photons at all, resulting in a completely black image.

(That’s essentially what underexposure is, after all: The failure to capture a sufficient number of photons for a bright image.)

Anyways, that’s how a standard sensor works.

But as explained by Canon, a SPAD sensor works differently:

“When a single light particle…reaches a pixel it is multiplied – as if creating an “avalanche” – that results in a single large electrical pulse.”

In other words: Each photon gives you far more charge to work with, resulting in much greater sensitivity overall.

While Canon’s current SPAD sensor only captures 1 megapixel images, an imaging device that sensitive could offer plenty of benefits in terms of scientific technology. For instance, Canon’s SPAD sensor can expose its pixels in 3.8 nanoseconds, which makes it possible to capture events and features that were previously considered impossible.

Canon argues that “thanks to its ability to capture fine details for the entirety of events and phenomena, this technology holds the potential for use in a wide variety of fields and applications including clear, safe and durable analysis of chemical reactions, natural phenomena including lightning strikes, falling objects, damage upon impacts and other events that can’t be observed with precision by the naked eye.”

There are also applications in terms of 3D imaging, due to a SPAD sensor’s capacity to record precise exposure times.

While it doesn’t sound like SPAD sensors will be reaching consumer sensors any time soon, it’ll be interesting to see how this technology gets utilized!

Now over to you:

What potential applications can you imagine for SPAD sensors? Share your thoughts in the comments!

The post Canon’s New 1 MP SPAD Sensor Offers Potential for Highly-Sensitive Imaging appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Jaymes Dempsey.


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Canon’s new software will turn select EOS, PowerShot cameras into webcams for Windows 10 PCs

29 Apr

As more and more people desire higher-quality video communication over internet while working from home due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the demand for webcams has increased dramatically, triggering incredibly high prices, sometimes three to four times over MSRP. And that’s if you can find one at all.

To help bridge a growing gap, Canon has announced the release of the EOS Webcam Utility Beta, a program for that will, with a single USB cable, turn compatible Canon EOS interchangeable lens cameras (ILCs) and PowerShot cameras into dedicated webcams on PCs running the 64-bit version of Windows 10.

‘In unprecedented times, it’s imperative for Canon to provide our customers with useful, simple and accessible solutions to assist them in whatever imaging needs they have,’ says Tatsuro ‘Tony’ Kano, executive vice president of the Canon U.S.A., Inc. Imaging Technologies & Communications Group in the press release. ‘Our goal is that the EOS Webcam Utility Beta software can help reduce some of the remote workday stress for employees who are tasked with video conferencing and virtual meetings.’

A list of the EOS and PowerShot cameras currently supported.

Downloading the EOS Webcam Utility Beta must be done from the downloads page of your supported camera’s product page on Canon’s website. Thankfully, Canon has created a library on its dedicated EOS Webcam Utility Beta page linking out to the appropriate page for each supported camera. Once to the camera’s download page, simply click the download button to start downloading the installation file.

Being it’s a beta program, Canon is asking for feedback pertaining to the application, which can be left on Canon’s dedicated forum.

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Canon’s Q1 financial report shows Imaging Systems net sales and profits are down 13.9%, 80.6% YoY

24 Apr

Canon has released its first-quarter (Q1) financial report, revealing just how bad the COVID-19 pandemic has affected its bottom line and suggesting it’s only going to get worse before it gets better.

The report starts off by stating on its ‘Key Message’ summary page that the COVID-19 pandemic has ‘completely [changed the] global economic landscape’ with the following bullet point saying the ‘global economy faces worst recession since the Great Depression’ due to the ongoing pandemic.

Across the board, Canon saw a 9.5% drop in net sales and an 18.7% decline in operating profit for Q1 (January 1 through April 23), year-over-year (YoY). But even those numbers look great in comparison to those found within Canon’s Imaging Systems division, which accounts for camera and inkjet printer sales.

The report shows net sales and operating profit for Q1 within the Imaging System division is down 13.9% and 80.6%, respectively, YoY. Further split up, Canon states its net sales are down 24.8% YoY specifically for cameras, while its inkjet printer net sales were actually up 7.3%. Despite the current situation, Canon hasn’t changed its projections which currently have net sales and operating profits down 2.5% and up 11.5%, respectively for the entire 2020 fiscal year.

That may very well change though, as Canon expects its second quarter (Q2) to be even worse, as Canon’s current downward trajectory didn’t even start until mid-way through Q1. Combined with the uncertainty of when the COVID-19 pandemic will begin to subside, Canon says it’s difficult to provide accurate estimates of future financials and even clarifies that once the global economy is back on the rise, it’s unlikely cameras will see an immediate return to normal sales.

In addition to the impact on supply, sales of interchangeable-lens cameras were also greatly affected. One after another, live events were canceled or postponed and chances to use cameras decreased. In addition to this, we believe it will take time to see a recovery in the demand for cameras, which are considered luxury items, even after the global economic turmoil has subsided.’

Whatever happens, it seems Canon has little intent on slowing down. In its summary of the results, Canon says it ‘will steadily push forward [its] strategy that focuses on models for professionals and advanced-amateurs to maintain medium- to longterm profitability,’ an obvious nod to the forthcoming EOS R5 camera, as well as new RF lenses on the horizon.

Something worth keeping in mind, as with all financial reports, is that numbers alone don’t tell the whole story. There is plenty going on behind-the-scenes and there is a lot of grey area within the net sales and operating profits within any given division.

For this particular Q1 report, a standout example of this is in the dramatic discrepancy between the net sales and operating profit within Canon’s Imaging Systems division. While we obviously can’t confirm this to be the case, the 80.6% decline in operating profit could very well be due, at least in part, to the research, development and marketing expenses of the EOS R5 and other professional and ‘advanced amateur’ camera systems Canon plans to release in the near future. It’s shaping up to be an industry-shaking camera based on the currently-known specs and actively developing such a system doesn’t come cheap.

You can read through all of the Q1 financial documents on Canon’s investor relations website.

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Canon’s EOS M6 Mark II finally gets a 24p video mode via new firmware update

01 Apr

As it had assured consumers back in October 2019, Canon has released a firmware update for its EOS M6 Mark II camera that adds a 24p (23.98fps) mode that was inexplicably missing from the camera until now.

Canon has already released firmware for the other camera systems it promised 24p modes for, including the EOS 90D and EOS RP, so the new 1.1.0 update for the EOS M6 Mark II wraps up its response to customer feedback regarding the lack of a 24p mode when shooting video.

In addition to adding the 24p mode, the update also fixes an issue wherein the focus position of the lens returns to the home position if the camera powers off while in ‘Auto Power Off’ is turned on during ‘Interval Timing’ shooting as well as an issue that, ‘in rare cases’ would cause the camera to not focus at the edges of the image area.

The 1.1.0 firmware update is currently available to download (40MB) for both macOS and Windows computers on Canon’s EOS M6 Mark II product page.

Changelog:

Firmware Version 1.1.0 incorporates the following enhancement and fixes:

  1. The option to capture movies in the frame rate of 23.98p has been added.
  2. Fixes the phenomenon where the focus position of the lens returns to the home position if the camera powers off due to the “Auto Power Off” setting during Interval Timing shooting.
  3. Fixes the phenomenon in which, in rare cases, the camera may not autofocus at the edges of the image area.

Firmware Version 1.1.0 is for cameras with firmware up to Version 1.0.1. If the camera’s firmware is already Version 1.1.0, it is not necessary to update the firmware.

When updating the firmware of the camera, please review the instructions thoroughly before you download the firmware.

Notes: You can download the latest version of the instruction manual from our Web site.

Q&A: Preparations for a firmware update: After the downloaded compressed file (.dmg file) is extracted, a firmware folder is created.

*Extracting the downloaded file: The downloaded folder is automatically extracted, and a firmware folder is created. If the download folder cannot be automatically extracted, double-click the folder.

The extracted folder contains the firmware (File name: M6200110.FIR, File size: 37,013,792 bytes) and instructions on the firmware update procedures (a PDF file in five languages: Japanese, English, French, Spanish, and Simplified Chinese).

Before starting the firmware update operations, please confirm the contents of the download, and carefully read through the firmware update procedures.

(The following is the history of past firmware updates) Changes in Version 1.0.1:

  1. Corrects a PTP communications vulnerability.
  2. Corrects a vulnerability related to firmware update.

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The EOS-1D X Mark III shoots Canon’s best-ever JPEGs

23 Mar

We knew that the sensor Canon had put into its flagship EOS-1D X Mark III DSLR was going to be a good one, and we’ve put it in front of our studio test scene to see how it stacks up against its sports-shooting peers.

Raw and JPEG performance

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Right off the bat, we can see good detail capture$ (document).ready(function() { $ (“#icl-4993–867727231”).click(function() { ImageComparisonWidgetLink(4993); }); }) for this class of camera at lower ISO values$ (document).ready(function() { $ (“#icl-4994-672421372”).click(function() { ImageComparisonWidgetLink(4994); }); }), but that’s not really a surprise. These cameras need to just work, in any situation, and the EOS-1D X III delivers in extremely low light$ (document).ready(function() { $ (“#icl-4995–734843880”).click(function() { ImageComparisonWidgetLink(4995); }); }) with noise levels noticeably lower than its predecessor. The Sony has a resolution advantage, but when we downscale all the cameras to a common resolution, the Canon still looks impressive$ (document).ready(function() { $ (“#icl-4996-1281065173”).click(function() { ImageComparisonWidgetLink(4996); }); }). However, the Nikon D5 continues to reign supreme as higher ISO$ (document).ready(function() { $ (“#icl-4997-1755766028”).click(function() { ImageComparisonWidgetLink(4997); }); }) values approach absurdity$ (document).ready(function() { $ (“#icl-4998–2071627873”).click(function() { ImageComparisonWidgetLink(4998); }); }).

Sports shooters and photojournalists also value good JPEGs$ (document).ready(function() { $ (“#icl-4999-1823666868”).click(function() { ImageComparisonWidgetLink(4999); }); }), as they will often be either forbidden from sending in edited Raw files, or they need to get a smaller file off to their editors as quickly as possible. While the JPEG engines on these cameras are all very customizable, we can see the default values Canon has dialed in are improved. The text here is noticeably less ‘blob-y’ than the 1D X Mark II, and the Mark III holds onto fine detail$ (document).ready(function() { $ (“#icl-5000-731235669”).click(function() { ImageComparisonWidgetLink(5000); }); }) better across the scene$ (document).ready(function() { $ (“#icl-5001-634885912”).click(function() { ImageComparisonWidgetLink(5001); }); }). The new camera is using finer radius sharpening, which is emphasizing (and not over-writing) the finest detail that it’s capturing. It’s still not quite a match for the Sony a9, though.

The Mark III also strikes a better balance than its predecessor between noise reduction and detail retention in JPEG at higher ISO values$ (document).ready(function() { $ (“#icl-5002-1799783590”).click(function() { ImageComparisonWidgetLink(5002); }); }). It’s an impressive showing$ (document).ready(function() { $ (“#icl-5003-14569280”).click(function() { ImageComparisonWidgetLink(5003); }); }), but again, not quite a match for Sony’s context-sensitive noise reduction.

Now it’s true that the 1D X III also shoots HEIF files, meant for high-dynamic range displays. These files show noticeably more dynamic range than the company’s JPEG files, and we’ll be delving more into this in our full review.

Now, let’s take a look at dynamic range on the next page.

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What does the EOS R5 tell us about Canon’s mirrorless plans?

08 Mar
A prototype of the forthcoming Canon EOS R5, on display at the recent WPPI trade show

If it wasn’t obvious at the time, it should be clear now that the EOS R and RP don’t represent Canon’s full ambitions for full-frame mirrorless. Following the initial surge of those releases, there’s been an apparent lull while the real work continued. Now that Canon has started to release details of the forthcoming EOS R5, the bigger picture is becoming clearer.

This is not to downplay the role of those first two cameras. The RP in particular seems to be turning into the camera we thought it might: a competent and aggressively priced first-time full-framer, pitched below the 6D level to entice people into the system.

But it was very apparent that the R and RP weren’t at the center of Canon’s plans for the RF-mount and we’ve had to wait until now, to see more of Canon’s longer-term strategy.

The RF lenses have already set out the game plan though. That triumvirate of F2.8 L zooms is clearly not primarily aimed at RP or even R users. The prices and the performance that they’ve shown, along with the use of the widely respected ‘L’ designation, should make that clear.

Neither the ‘holy trinity’ of F2.8 L zooms, nor the 50 and 85mm F1.2 prime lenses will have been developed primarily for EOS R or RP shooters.

These lenses are laying the groundwork for a camera designed to appeal to the dedicated enthusiast and professional user.

The R5 will be a mirrorless 5D

One thing that’s certain, now that we’ve seen the prototype cameras, is that the inclusion of the number ‘5’ in the R5’s name is no coincidence.

The 5D line has been important for the company, both in terms of sales and in terms of reputation. The 5D DSLRs help cement the company’s image as the maker of aspirational products for enthusiasts and dependable cameras for working professionals, then extended that to create the first high-end stills/video hybrid camera. Like the ‘L’ designation, Canon is unlikely to risk undermining the values associated with that branding by casually applying it to something less ambitious.

Canon is unlikely to risk the 5-series branding by applying it to something less ambitious

The prototype units Canon has put on show also help to make clear that it’s this 5D-using crowd it’s targeting with the R5: the styling cues of the body might come from the EOS R but the control layout is reassuringly 5D-like. Wedding shooters, along with everyone else who got really anxious about such things when the EOS R was launched, will be reassured to hear the R5 will have twin card slots.

There are certainly plenty of design cues from the EOS R, including that square status panel and the mode button set inside the rear shoulder dial…

Canon was determined to get it right

The lag between the announcement of the system and the arrival of its key camera model suggests there was still work that needed to be done.

Given how much of a head start Sony had already established in full-frame mirrorless with its progressively better a7 cameras, there must have been a temptation for Canon to quickly establish a presence in such a key part of the market. But, rather than launching a rival to the Sony a7R III at the same time Nikon launched its Z7, Canon has kept its powder dry.

…but that rear-plate scroll wheel, that big, traditional joystick and the arrangement of the two buttons on the right shoulder have much more in common with Canon’s DSLR design.

This strongly suggests it’s been continuing to work on the technologies underpinning the R5. Whereas the R and RP placed sensors from existing models (the EOS 5D IV and EOS 6D II respectively), in less-expensive bodies, it’s now clear that the R5 will include a series of all-new technologies. And we’d guess at a price tag around the $ 3500 territory that EOS 5D models have been launched at.

It will feature new-to-Canon technologies

Canon confirmed to us over a year ago that it was developing an in-body stabilization system for a ‘pro-level’ RF camera, and this is likely to be one of the things still being perfected.

There’s scope for some misunderstanding in translation, of course, but the senior figures we interviewed seemed to suggest a system that would combine the efforts of in-body and in-lens stabilization, like Panasonic and Olympus do, rather than sharing the work by letting in-lens stabilization take over some of the work from the in-body mechanism, per Sony and Nikon.

Canon has a history of launching new systems by starting with the middle model. The launch model of the EF mount, the EOS 650, wasn’t an especially high-end offering.

While Canon has decades of experience of in-lens stabilization, it doesn’t have any prior experience of combining lens and sensor-shift IS. This is clearly a technology Canon wanted to get absolutely right before launching a 5D-level camera, rather than delivering a standalone IBIS system and then using the promise of combined IS to entice people to upgrade to an R5 Mark II.

It will push video capabilities forward

The EOS 5D II established the idea of the DSLR as a video device. It wasn’t quite the first video DSLR but with its Full HD capability and full-frame sensor, it was the one that ended up in the hands of would-be videographers the world over. The Mark III added a little polish to this but didn’t really push things forward.

But one of the undeniable advantages mirrorless offers over DSLRs is that you don’t have a mirror that needs to be moved out of the way before you can start recording. This, in turn, helps give a more coherent stills and video shooting experience, making it easier for photographers to adapt to shooting sequences of moving pictures, rather than just stills.

So a 5D-level mirrorless camera would be the perfect time to make a spiritual successor to the 5D Mark II and Canon is talking in terms of 8K capture.

The potential benefits of 8K apply to people watching in 4K, just as there were benefits to 4K capture before widespread adoption of 4K displays

You may not think you need 8K, if that’s what the camera ends up outputting. It’s true that the limits of human vision at sensible viewing distances take us into the realms of diminishing returns, but many of the potential benefits of 8K apply to people watching in 4K, just as there were benefits to 4K capture before widespread adoption of 4K displays.

The first is the ability to crop in, giving scope for adding panning or zooming movement into locked-off shots. This is hugely useful in terms of giving flexibility at the edit stage, particularly for single camera setups that an R5 is likely to be used for.

But the other option is to capture at 8K and output it as perfectly oversampled 4K, since you need to capture twice the resolution to accurately describe all the detail that a 4K video can show. It may be that this is what Canon is referring to 8K capture with 4K output, but even this would be an impressive step forward.

I won’t call it a flagship

So what we know from the announced details and what we can deduce from the RF lenses that have been launched is that the 5R will aim to be a ‘Super 5D’: with the addition of in-body IS and advanced video making it perhaps the biggest generational leap forward for ‘5’ level cameras since the introduction of Full HD video capture.

The EOS R5 promises to match the 1D X III in terms of its 20fps frame rate, but it’s still the 1D series that’s the real flagship in Canon’s lineup.

But I’m still loath to call it a flagship. 5D cameras are important to Canon and certainly help set public perception of the brand, but it’s the 1D-series that has entrenched the company’s position on the sidelines of sports across the world.

The R5 is likely to include some of the AI-trained autofocus know-how developed for the EOS-1D X Mark III, and it’s likely to be the top dog in the RF lineup for the foreseeable future. But the sheer amount of power offered by the 1D X III in mirrorless mode suggests we may be only a single generation away from an RF-mount 1D.

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