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Tuesday, September 25, 2018

Sigma Announced Five New Global Vision Lenses




Cologne, Germany – September 25, 2018 – Sigma today announced five new Sigma Global Vision lenses shown for the first time at the 2018 Photokina expo in Cologne, Germany from September 26th-29th in Hall 4.2 on Stands B020, B028I and C029. From wide-angle to hyper-telephoto, the new Sigma Global Vision introductions arrive as some of the most anticipated lenses in the industry, further facilitating artistic expression for photographers.

Sigma 28mm F1.4 DG HSM Art

The new Sigma wide-angle model stands out with its thoroughly corrected magnification chromatic aberration and sagittal coma flare, as well as completely minimized distortion thanks to its optical design. It features water- and oil-repellent coating on the front lens element and its overall dust- and splash-proof structure ensures excellent performance even in the most challenging shooting conditions. The high-speed AF, thanks to the HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor) with an updated algorithm, captures the perfect moment instantly. Available in Sigma, Nikon, Canon and Sony E camera mounts, this lens is a great contender for street photography, as well as shooting landscapes and night skies.

Sigma 40mm F1.4 DG HSM Art

The 40mm F1.4 DG HSM Art is Sigma’s first lens developed originally to live up to the sought-after angle of view and performance standard for a benchmark cine lens. This lens effectively arranges three FLD (“F” Low Dispersion) glass elements and three SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass elements to correct axial chromatic aberration and magnification chromatic aberration. Designed for exceptional sharpness at maximum aperture, this lens excels at available light photography. With less than 1% distortion and near non-existent sagittal coma flare, this lens demonstrates consistent optical results featuring both 8K-compatible resolution and a beautiful bokeh. It is available for Sigma, Nikon, Canon and Sony E mount camera systems.

Sigma 56mm F1.4 DC DN Contemporary

This lens completes the Sigma large aperture series of portable wide-angle, standard, and telephoto prime lenses in Micro Four Thirds and Sony E mounts. Featuring compact design, light weight and outstanding image quality offered in Sigma’s Contemporary line, this lens stuns with a beautiful bokeh effect and the amount of brightness expected from F1.4 lenses even in the mid-telephoto range for cropped sensor cameras. In addition, this lens is characterized by smooth and quiet autofocus ideal for video shooting. Compatible with the Sony E mount Fast Hybrid AF, it also achieves precise AF tracking. By using the face recognition or eye AF functions of the camera, focus will continuously be on the face or the eye even if the subject moves during the shoot.

Sigma 70-200mm F2.8 DG OS HSM Sports

One of the most anticipated lenses from the Sigma Global Vision line, the Sigma 70-200mm F2.8 DG OS HSM Sports is the new flagship large-aperture telephoto zoom lens that meets the most stringent needs of professional photographers. Robust yet lightweight, the lens’ magnesium body ensures high mobility and its dust- and splash-proof structure together with the water- and oil-repellent coating on the front element ensure safe use even in the most challenging shooting conditions. It also incorporates Intelligent OS with an acceleration sensor and the latest algorithm capable of panning in all directions. The lens’ optical design, incorporating 10 exclusive low-dispersion glass elements, allows for extremely high resolution, from the center to the corners. By optimizing spherical aberration, a smooth and natural bokeh effect is achieved when using the Sigma 70-200mm F2.8 DG OS HSM Sports for portrait photography. The versatility of this lens is demonstrated in various customization options via an AF Function button either through the camera body or Sigma USB Dock. The newest F2.8 large-aperture zoom lens from Sigma comes in Sigma, Canon and Nikon mounts.

Sigma 60-600mm F4.5-6.3 DG OS HSM Sports

The Sigma 60-600mm F4.5-6.3 DG OS HSM Sports is the world’s first 10x optical zoom telephoto lens with a tele end of 600mm. Incorporating 25 elements in 19 groups, excellent and consistent image quality can be achieved throughout the entire zoom range. This lens’ intelligent OS featuring the latest algorithm delivers an image stabilization effect of 4 stops. Its optical design ensures maximum correction of magnification chromatic aberration encountered in hyper-telephoto shooting. This offers both high resolution and consistent edge-to-edge performance throughout the entire zoom range. In addition, when shooting at the focal length of 200mm, the Sigma 60-600mm F4.5-6.3 DG OS HSM Sports can also be used for telephoto macro photography, with a maximum magnification ratio of 1:3.3, thanks to its high rendering performance. Its multi-material build, which incorporates magnesium among other components, ensures durability and enhances portability, allowing for comfortable handling of the 10x zoom lens. The zooming mechanism has been engineered to make both smooth rotation and straight zoom possible. Versatile and robust, the new Sigma hyper-telephoto zoom lens is available in Sigma, Canon and Nikon mounts starting in late October 2018 for $1999 USD. 

Thursday, September 20, 2018

Canon Announced PowerShot SX70 HS Compact Digital Camera







MELVILLE, N.Y., September 20, 2018 – It’s a common saying that good things come in small packages and today, Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, demonstrates this with the introduction of the new PowerShot SX70 HS compact digital camera. Featuring a 65x Optical Zoom Lens (equivalent to 211-1365mm), 20.3 Megapixel CMOS imaging sensor and 4K video capabilities, the PowerShot SX70 HS camera is an ideal fit for anyone who wants powerful optical performance in a compact package. With a minimum focusing distance of 3cm and a zoom up to 2730mm (with ZoomPlus), the PowerShot SX70 HS allows users to create beautiful close-ups and stunning wide shots without changing lenses.

PowerShot SX70 HS highlighted specs :

  • 20.3MP CMOS Sensor
  • DIGIC 8 Image Processor
  • 65x Zoom Lens
  • 2.36m-Dot OLED Electronic Viewfinder
  • UHD 4K Video Recording, 4K Time-Lapse
  • Image Stabilization
  • Built-In Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
  • Continuous Shooting up to 10 fps
  • Zoom Framing Assist


“In this day and age, cameras are becoming smaller while the desired list of features continues to grow,” said Kazuto Ogawa, president and chief operating officer, Canon U.S.A., Inc. “Canon continues to be committed to incorporating the latest features in our compact cameras and the new PowerShot SX70 HS is our very latest version, providing the dynamic combination of a compact body, powerful zoom and robust features that photo and video enthusiasts alike will love.”

The PowerShot SX70 HS features a 0.39-inch, approximately 2.36-million dot, high-definition OLED Electronic Viewfinder (EVF) for clear, crisp representation of what the lens is seeing. This camera also features 4K video shooting and frame grabbing,4 and is the first Canon point-and-shoot camera compatible with the latest RAW format (.CR3). With the addition of a new eye sensor, the camera automatically switches to the EVF display simply by bringing the camera up to the eye. Additionally, the inclusion of built-in Wi-Fi®5 and Bluetooth®6 technology offers quick and easy sharing, making the switch from smartphone photography to the PowerShot SX70 HS camera simple and fun.

The DIGIC 8 processor enables the PowerShot SX70 HS camera to achieve five stops of IS with dual-sensing image stabilization (IS). Even during handheld shooting, IS allows users to take pictures with minimal worry about camera shake. The camera also features high-speed continuous shooting at up to 10 fps. A Zoom Framing Assist button on the side of the lens barrel enables quick adjustments of the view angle, which is especially useful during telephoto shooting. With a large grip for comfortable, stable shooting and an EOS-like user interface, the PowerShot SX70 HS will make it easy for artistic vision to come to life in the hands of photographers at any level.

Wednesday, September 19, 2018

Canon To Announce PowerShot SX70-HS Camera Very Soon








PowerShot SX70-HS camera specs :

  • 21 MP 1/2.3 type sensor
  • 65 X optical zoom
  • DIGIC 8 processor
  • 4K video
  • Wi-Fi and Bluetooth installed
  • Size: 127.1 × 90.9 × 116.6 mm
  • Weight: 610 g / 1.34 lbs.

Friday, September 14, 2018

New Canon DSLR and Mirrorless Cameras Coming Down The Pipeline




My readers know me as The Wildlife Ho-tographer and I have used Canon equipment for over three decades. Throughout the years, I have embarked on many worldwide photo shoots. You can follow my travels on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter and see my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com

I attended an invitation only Canon EOS-R event last night in California and had a hands-on session with the production camera, all the RF lenses and adapters.

The feel of the body with the BG-E22 grip is reassuring for those who are used to grips on their EOS-5D and EOS-1 bodies. The LCD rear panel is super sharp but unfortunately, those are the only two things that impressed me.

The layout of the buttons and functionalities on the EOS-R are so different from the EOS DSLR series and the new features are not enough for me to spend time and money learning, adjusting and building a new line of lenses for my equipment bag.

For those who are willing to build up another line of lenses and like to keep their present EF glass, the EF - EOS-R adapter is simple and straight forward to use but the other two adapters with control ring and drop in filter features are 'solutions' to an non-existent problem and a waste of money.

I am waiting to upgrade my EOS-1D X Mark II and EOS-7D Mark II bodies to the Mark III models. They should be announced by the middle of 2019 or before. Below are some upcoming Canon announcements discovered through their certification applications.

K433

  • Mirrorless camera (a cheaper EOS-R model?)
  • Full size
  • Wi-Fi · Bluetooth installed
  • Maximum image size of test machine: 6240 x 4160
  • Probably will be released within 1 year

K435

  • Single lens reflex camera (Rebel T7i replacement?)
  • APS-C
  • Wi-Fi · Bluetooth installed
  • Battery level indication is displayed in 4 levels (same as 9000 D etc.)
  • Maximum image size of test machine: 6000 × 4000
  • Probably released in 2019

K436

  • Single lens reflex camera (EOS-80D Mark II or EOS-90D?)
  • APS-C
  • Wi-Fi · Bluetooth installed
  • Battery level indication is displayed in 4 levels (same as 9000 D etc.)
  • Maximum image size of test machine: 6000 × 4000
  • Probably released in 2019

K437

  • Single lens reflex camera (EOS-7D Mark III?)
  • Wi-Fi · Bluetooth installed
  • Battery level indicator is displayed in six levels (same as 5D Mark IV etc.)
  • Maximum image size of test machine: 6960 × 4640
  • Probably released in 2019

EC804

  • Compact digital camera (PowerShot G7X Mark III?)
  • Wi-Fi · Bluetooth installed
  • Powershot G series

EC 805

  • Compact digital camera
  • Wi-Fi · Bluetooth installed

EC808

  • Compact digital camera
  • Wi-Fi · Bluetooth installed
  • Powershot G series

EC 811

  • Mirrorless camera (EOS M5 Mark II?)
  • APS-C
  • Wi-Fi · Bluetooth installed
  • Maximum image size of test machine: 6000 × 4000
  • Probably released in 2019

EC 812

  • Mirrorless camera
  • APS-C
  • Wi-Fi · Bluetooth installed
  • Maximum image size of test machine: 6000 × 4000
  • Probably released in 2019 or later

Wednesday, September 12, 2018

Canon Announces XF705 4K Professional Camcorder




MELVILLE, N.Y., September 12, 2018 – Canon U.S.A. Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today announced the new flagship model for the Company’s XF-series professional camcorders, the XF705. The camcorder features 4K (3840 x 2160) video shooting enabling users to record high-image quality at 60p/4:2:2/10-bit/HDR1 video to on-board SD cards. Ideal for broadcast and video production applications in addition to capturing video content at events and concerts, the 4K camcorder meets the needs of users who require high-quality video capture and more efficient video production workflows.

“The ability to capture high-quality video on-the-go in a compact and lightweight form factor is extremely valuable to videographers of all skill levels,” said Kazuto Ogawa, president and chief operating officer, Canon U.S.A., Inc. “This camcorder was designed to help professionals take their productions to the next level with 4K video recording and a wide-range of advanced features.”
The XF705 features an L-Series 15x optical zoom lens (35 mm film equivalent: 25.5 mm–382.5 mm), 1.0-inch CMOS sensor and a Dual DIGIC DV 6 image-processor providing greater image quality and performance. In addition, users can easily choose between two HDR formats—Hybrid Log-Gamma (HLG), ideal for such scenarios as broadcasting and live video transmission and Perceptual Quantization (PQ), which is well-suited during web transmission and film production. The camcorder features Canon’s newly developed XF-HEVC video format that enables users to record HDR video to SD cards while delivering a high compression ratio. It also allows HDR (internal SD card) and SDR (external recorder) simultaneous recording. Delivering smaller file sizes allows for more efficient workflows across various stages of the production process, from shooting to editing.

When shooting 4K video, focusing precision is vital, the XF705, featuring Canon’s revolutionary Dual Pixel CMOS AF2 enables users to maintain smooth autofocus operation through enhanced touch-panel operations. The XF705 meets a wide range of professional demands, with Canon Log 3, 12G-SDI, Built-in Wi-Fi, 4-channel audio, 3 density ND filter and 5 axis image stabilization for its 15x optical zoom lens. It is also compatible with the current leading non-linear editing software, as well as Canon XF Utility, a software that supports the new XF-HEVC video format, as well as XF-AVC and XF-MPEG, and is used for import, playing back and managing video data as well as cropping still-image data.

Availability and Pricing

The Canon XF705 professional camcorder is scheduled to be available in December 2018 with a suggested retail price of $6,999.00*. Additional CA-CP200 L power adapters are available for purchase as well with a suggested retail price of $285.00*. For more information, please visit usa.canon.com.

Wednesday, September 5, 2018

Canon Announced EF 400mm f/2.8 L IS III, EF 600mm EF 600mm f/4 L IS III Lenses







MELVILLE, N.Y., September 5, 2018 – Most professional photographers need to carry multiple lenses in their camera bags. Helping to lighten their load, Canon U.S.A. Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, introduces two new super-telephoto lenses, the EF 400mm f/2.8L IS III USM and EF 600mm f/4L IS III USM. Both lenses possess a dramatic weight reduction and high-image quality, making it ideal for shooters to easily transport and capture images during action-driven scenarios, such as sports and wildlife. Both lenses now hold the title of world’s lightest in their respective focal length*. The weight of the EF 400mm f/2.8L IS III USM and EF 600mm f/4L IS III USM lenses has been reduced by 2.2 lbs. (more than 25 percent) and 1.9 lbs. (more than 20 percent) respectively.

“When developing updates to some of Canon’s most popular legacy lenses, one common question that is asked by photographers was ‘can they be lighter,’” said Kazuto Ogawa, president and chief operating officer, Canon U.S.A., Inc. “The significant reduction of weight in these two lenses addresses this customer need and delivers thoughtfully designed, high-quality optics .”

The new lenses are must-haves for advanced and professional photographers shooting wildlife, aviation, sports and news with Canon’s new EOS R full-frame mirrorless camera (with use of one of the three new Canon mount adapters), as well the EOS 1D and 5D series of DSLR Cameras. Both lenses feature two of Canon’s most advanced propriety lens technologies - Air Sphere Coating (ASC) and Super Spectra Coating (SSC), helping to reduce flaring and ghosting, and suppressing the reflection of light, leading to vivid images. These updated lenses inherit the excellent overall build-quality and ruggedness photographers have come to expect and admire from the Canon EF L series of lenses. In addition, the minimum focusing distance has been improved for both lenses, from 2.7m to 2.5m (8.8ft to 8.2ft) for the EF 400mm f/2.8L IS III USM and 4.5m to 4.2m (14.8ft to 13.8ft) for the EF 600mm f/4L IS III USM.

Additional noteworthy features of the lenses include:

Upgraded Optical Image Stabilization from three-and-a-half stops to five shutter speed stops1 of correction over the previous f/2.8 lens
Improved, flexible focus control with a customizable electronic-focus ring
Two fluorite lenses and one super UD lens, helping to provide high image quality
Circular nine-blade aperture
17 lens elements in 13 groups
Heat-shielding paint helps prevent lens temperature from rising during excessive exposure to sun
Fluorine coating on front and rear optical elements, helps to reduce smears and fingerprints
Inner focusing system with Ring Ultrasonic Motor
Availability and Pricing

The Canon EF 400mm f/2.8L IS III USM is scheduled to begin shipping in December 2018 with an estimated retail price of $11,999. The Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS III USM is scheduled to begin shipping in December 2018 for an estimated retail price of $12,999.

Canon Announced EOS-R Full Frame Mirrorless Camera and RF Mount Lenses











MELVILLE, N.Y., September 5, 2018 – Canon U.S.A. Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today announced the next revolution in the company’s long history of innovative and award-winning camera systems, the EOS R system featuring the newly designed RF mount. You can download the whitepaper on this new camera here.

Recognizing the need to advance optical design, the Company sought to create a versatile and powerful new system that supports all current EF, EF-S, TS-E and MP-E lensesi, and also provides the optical advancements and engineering flexibility to build upon for years to come.

When Canon set forth to develop a new interchangeable lens camera system, they focused on three core optical principles: high-image quality, high-specification performance, and compact design. Recognizing that optics is the foundation for any camera system, the RF mount was conceived to open new doors in optical design. Canon’s new RF mount features the same size diameter as the EF mount (54mm) and shorter back focus distance. This allows for lenses to sit closer to the sensor (the focal plane) and allowed Canon optical engineers to reimagine lens design utilizing larger rear lens elements to produce an image on the full-frame sensor. This new optical formula has paved the way for higher performing lenses. In addition, the Canon RF mount features a high-speed 12-pin communication system that provides faster and more in-depth communication between the camera and lens over existing Canon mount systems.

The EOS R system is designed for full, uninhibited compatibility with all existing EF, EF-S, TS-E and MP-E lenses through the use of mount adaptersii. In addition, through the use of the optional Drop-In Filter Mount Adapter or Control Ring Mount Adapter these lenses, in fact, gain functionality.

“There has never been a time in history in which visual expression has been so prolific. Imaging, both still and video, are the communication mediums of today’s society. Much in the same way we learned to type in the past, today’s youth are skilled in shooting, editing, and visual storytelling in ways that only the masters of each craft were decades ago,” said Kazuto Ogawa, president and chief operating officer, Canon U.S.A., Inc. “Knowing this, we needed to step back and design a system that delivers all the creative expression and functionality today’s youth crave, now and in the years to come.”

The First in a New System: The EOS R 

The new Canon EOS R full-frame mirrorless camera features a 30.3 megapixel CMOS sensor that is powered by the Company’s latest image processor, DIGIC 8, enabling shooting at up to 8.0 frames per secondiii. The new camera inherits a lot from Canon’s legacy in both EOS and Cinema EOS. Video storytellers can capture stunning 4K UHD video up to 30fps and record in 10-bit 4:2:2 (with an external recorder). The EOS R also comes with the ability to shoot Canon Log, providing 12 stops of dynamic range, minimal loss of detail in shadows and highlighted areas and an increased range of choices when color grading. Users with an existing collection of Canon lenses will be excited to know that all EF and EF-S lens are compatible with the camera. In order to do so, photographers and videographers can choose between using one of three new mount adapters, each uniquely designed to meet the individual needs of the user.

The new Canon EOS R camera features Dual Pixel CMOS Auto Focus with 5,655 manually selectable AF pointsiv, supporting AF at up to f/11 with a 384 zone (24x16) real-time metering system. With f/1.2 lenses, the camera astonishingly boasts AF sensitivity in low light in as little as EV-6. When using the RF 24-105mm F4 L IS USM lens with the EOS R, the camera can focus in as little as 0.05 seconds with Dual Pixel CMOS AFv, making it the fastest autofocus speed in the worldvi. These features provide photographers and videographers with Canon’s most advanced AF system to date. The EOS R also features a silent shutter setting when shooting in single-shot mode; an important feature for those who need to capture imagery without disrupting the scene. An upcoming free firmware update will enable silent shutter in continuous shooting mode as well.

“The EOS R system is not just a new camera or a new lens mount, it is a new design that will allow us to produce visual tools that were previously impossible, and allow our customers to tell their stories with greater depth, richness of color, and creative flexibility, in optically stunning ways.” states Kazuto Ogawa.

Thoughts From the First Users 

“I think every camera system has its place and it’s all about having the right tool for the job,” reported acclaimed outdoor photographer and Canon Explorer of Light Jimmy Chin. “The new EOS R system for me in particular is very useful for the kind of shooting that I do in the mountains, where I need to worry about the size and weight. Having the option to use the new RF lenses or the EF lenses is really great.”

“I was instantly impressed with how quickly the EOS R was able to focus,” remarked celebrated fashion photographer and Canon Explorer of Light Lindsay Adler. “Whether my subject was moving or I was shooting in near-complete darkness, I had no problem getting tack-sharp focus in every shot. It was a relief to know my gear wasn’t going to hold me back from executing my vision, but instead it would really help me to execute this vision.”

“For us, it's all about getting the shot no one else can get, and a lot of this has to do with the camera,” says Devin Graham, director and filmmaker behind YouTube’s DevinSuperTramp. “The new EOS R will become one of our main cameras. It has a very small footprint, yet is able to create amazing images. As for the lenses, the new RF 28-70mm F2 has just become one of my all-time favorites. I’ll be bringing it on every project.”

Conveniently placed just to the right of the EVF, Canon has introduced a new Multi-Function Bar that will allows users to more easily access their customizable settings, such as AF, ISO and White Balance. Users will have the option to either slide or tap the bar to gain access to the settings and adjust on-the-go as they deem necessary depending on each particular shooting situation.

Answering the demand for enhanced mobile editing of RAW image files, Canon is also announcing a new application, Digital Photo Professional Express (DPP Express). In combination with an updated Canon Camera Connect App, DPP Express enables users to send, view, edit and process CR3 RAW files on their iPadvii. A free download of the app will be available October 2018.

Additional noteworthy features of the EOS R Camera include: 

  • RF Mount Compatible with RF Lenses and EF/EF-S Lenses
  • Built-in EVF with 3.69 Million Dots, Vari-angle Touchscreen LCD and Dot-matrix LCD Panel
  • ISO range of 100-40,000, expandable to 102,400
  • USB 3.1 in-camera charging support
  • Built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi providing easy sharing to compatible smart devices and social media sites
  • Single UHS-II SD card slot
  • CR3(RAW/C-RAW) and Dual Pixel RAW Support
  • Dust and weather resistant

New Firmware update will include the following features :

  • Eye detect AF in continuous shooting. The EOS R launches with the ability to do this in one shot.
  • Additional touch bar functionality added.
  • Continuous shooting in silent shutter mode. The EOS R only allows this feature in single shot at launch.
  • A “few tweaks” to video functionality. The 4K crop will not be changed, nor will the maximum frame rate in 4K.
  • Bug fixes


Availability and Pricing 

The Canon EOS R full-frame mirrorless camera is scheduled to be available in October 2018 for an estimated retail price of $2299 for the body only. It will also be sold as a body-and-lens kit with the new RF 24-105mm F4 L IS USM lens for $3399.






MELVILLE, N.Y., September 5, 2018 – Helping to rewrite the rules of visual expression, Canon U.S.A. Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today introduced a variety of new RF lenses and accessories to accompany the newly announced EOS R Full-Frame Mirrorless Camera System. The four new RF lenses are built around Canon’s new RF mount, which features a large 54mm diameter and shorter back focus distance than on current EOS DSLR cameras. The new RF mount enables new possibilities in optical design and lens formulation, allowing for faster and lighter lenses with higher performing optics.

The four new lenses, the Canon RF 28-70mm F2 L USM, RF 50mm F1.2 L USM, RF 24-105mm F4 L IS USM and RF 35mm F1.8 MACRO IS STM capitalize on the robust optic foundation of Canon’s new EOS R system. The design behind Canon’s new EOS R camera and RF lens system started with the concept of the optimal rear lens element diameter and shorter distance (back focus) for a Full-Frame image sensor.

With over 130 million EF lenses in circulation since Canon launched the mount in 1987*, the Company is enhancing the possibilities for its loyal customers who own and love their EF glass. Canon is introducing three RF Lens Mount Adapters that expand the capabilities of existing EF lenses when paired with the EOS R camera. The Canon Mount Adapter EF-EOS R allows photographers to utilize the full breadth of Canon’s EF, EF-S, TS-E, and MP-E lenses on the newly introduced EOS R camera system. The Control Ring Mount Adapter adds a customizable control ring via the adapter that provides photographers with added functionality to their fingertips. The Drop-in Filter Mount Adapter now easily places circular polarizing or variable neutral density filters behind the lens, opening up new options for lenses such as the EF 11-24mm where using optical filters were previously not an option.

“Knowing exceptional optics are a vital tool in shaping the image a photographer captures, Canon designed the EOS R camera system from the ground up with optics as the starting point,” said Kazuto Ogawa, president and chief operating officer, Canon U.S.A., Inc. “Canon is very excited about the world-class optics we have developed to marry with the new RF mount. With our rich history and more than 130 million EF lenses being used across the globe, Canon optics will continue to be at the forefront of our digital imaging development now and into the future.”

New Canon RF Series Lenses 

Three of the newly announced Canon RF lenses are counted among Canon’s top-of-the-line L-series optics; incorporating rugged, dust and water-resistant construction. All four new RF lenses feature a customizable control ring that allows photographers to adjust exposure compensation, shutter speed, aperture or ISO.

The Canon RF 28—70mm F2 L USM lens, the world’s first standard zoom lens with an f/2 aperturei is excellent for capturing landscapes, weddings and portraits with its large aperture for stunning bokeh. Initial testing within Canon has shown this new lens to produce better optical image quality and sharpness over similar focal length EF-series lenses, including the extremely popular and highly regarded EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM.

A portrait photographer’s must-have, the Canon RF 50mm F1.2 L USM lens sports an ultra large-diameter f/1.2 aperture and Canon’s Air Sphere Coating (ASC) technology to dramatically reduce flares and ghosting. This amazing new lens is capable of rendering subjects life-size on the full-frame sensor with its minimum focusing distance of only 0.59 inches.

Photographers seeking an all-around utility lens for the new EOS R camera system need to look no further than the Canon RF 24-105mm F4 L IS USM lens. Coming in nine percent shorter in length than the EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II USM, this compact lens employs a CIPA standard of 5 stops of IS and is equipped with NANO USM technology, the first L-series lens with the technology. This small chip-shaped ultrasonic motor is engineered to help deliver high-speed, smooth, precise and near-silent operation, plus full-time manual focus (when using one-shot AF).

A fast, wide-angle single focus lens, the Canon RF 35mm F1.8 MACRO IS STM lens is an excellent option for photographers looking for an affordable compact lens. Featuring a maximum shooting magnification of 0.5x, the lens can easily shoot macro photography of subjects such as flowers, food and even insects. The lens also utilizes a CIPA standard of 5 stops of IS and is compatible with Hybrid IS, compensating for both angular and shift camera shake.

Enhanced Capabilities for Canon EF Lenses 

Thanks to its large lens mount design, Canon’s new EOS R series camera system delivers new capabilities in both design and function, but for existing Canon lens owners it does something incredible. It enhances the capabilities of existing EF and EF-S lenses with full compatibility and in some cases, enhanced functionality when paired with one of three RF mount adapters.

Canon lenses are historically top-rated, and the Company is looking to help customers gain even more value in their investment with three new RF mount adapters.

The Canon Mount Adapter EF-EOS R is a standard adapter that provides full compatibility with EF lenses. Autofocus, metadata, and Optical Image Stabilization on EF lenses all continue to work seamlessly with the new EOS R camera through this adapter.

The Control Ring Mount Adapter EF-EOS R continues full EF lens compatibility with the addition of a customizable control ring. Functions that can be assigned and adjusted by the control ring include aperture, shutter speed, ISO speed and exposure compensation.

In addition to full EF lens compatibility, the Drop-In Filter Mount Adapter EF-EOS R allows for lens filters to be used behind any EF lens and help photographers conveniently utilize variable ND and circular polarizing filters with any EF lens.
New Speedlite Series

Canon is also introducing a new compact and lightweight Speedlite, the EL-100. Designed for photographers who are just beginning to use an external flash or are in need of a secondary unit, the new Speedlite delivers both soft and natural lighting reproduction. In addition, the EL-100 can rotate upwards and to the left and right enabling photographers to bounce the flash off of nearby ceilings, walls or surfaces.

Additional Features of the Canon Speedlite EL-100 include: 

  • Maximum Guide Number of Approx. 85 ft./26m at ISO 100
  • 24mm Wide-angle Coverage
  • Optical Wireless Flash Function (Sender and Receiver)
  • Flash Exposure Control Including Support for Stroboscopic Flash and Continuous Shooting Camera-linked Functions Including Interlocked External Flash Power On/Off
  • Mode Dial with AUTO Position

Availability and Pricing

The Canon RF 50mm F1.2 L USM will be available in October 2018 for an estimated retail price of $2299. The Canon RF 28-70mm F2 L USM, RF 24-105mm F4 L IS USM and RF 35mm F1.8 MACRO IS STM will all be available for purchase in December 2018 for an estimated retail price of $2999, $1099 and $499.99 respectively.

The Canon Mount Adapter EF-EOS R and Control Ring Mount Adapter EF-EOS R will be available for purchase in October 2018 for an estimated retail price of $99.99 and $199.99 respectively. The Drop-in Filter Mount Adapter EF-EOS R will all be available for purchase in February 2019 for an estimated retail price of $399.99 with a variable ND filter or $299.99 with a circular polarizing filter.

The Canon Speedlite EL-100 will be available for purchase in October 2018 for an estimated retail price of $199.99.

Saturday, September 1, 2018

Canon EOS-R Full Frame Mirrorless Camera Specs and Image Leaked






Canon EOS-R full frame mirrorless camera specifications are here, not ideal, a good start but I was hoping for more. Sadly, it requires an adapter to mount EF lens and the three types of control rings and drop in filter sound complicated and convoluted.

It seems to me Canon is still a bit worried about cannibalizing their high end EOS-1 and EOS-5 series DSLR sales. The burst rate of 8 fps is barely adequate for wildlife photography but I am still waiting for the replacement of the EOS-1D X Mark II.

I have been invited by Canon to attend a hands-on demonstration but from what I know now, I will not be buying this camera. The small size, even with the BG-E22 grip attached and the the 'slow' 8 fps make the camera unattractive to me. I will wait for the pro model and take a second look but I suspect my EOS-5D Mark IV will serve me better overall. You can download the entire factory specifications of the camera , the Owner Manual and judge for yourself.

Japanese website MyNavi posted an interview with various Canon Managers about the new EOS-R full frame mirrorless camera, some highlights from the interview :

  • The Canon EOS R sensor is not the same as the sensor featured on the EOS 5D Mark IV. The EOS R sensor is a new development.
  • The image quality of the Canon EOS R will beat any other Canon DSLR camera thanks to new sensors, new processors and new, high performing lenses
  • Canon did not add on sensor stabilisation (IBIS) because of the costs, and heating and size issues. They might consider adding on sensor stabilization on future models
  • There will be more EOS R models in the line-up. Expect lower and higher end models to be released in the future
  • Canon is considering making a 8k Cinema EOS R camera


The EF-M 32 f/1.4 STM lens, EF 400mm f/2.8 L IS III and EF 600mm f/4 L IS III Super Telephoto Lenses will be announced September 21 and late December, 2018, respectively.

  • 30.3MP Full Size CMOS
  • Dual pixel CMOS AF
  • One SD memory card slot
  • Multifunction bar installed (2nd picture image)
  • Wi-Fi and Bluetooth built-in
  • Weather sealed magnesium body
  • Continuous shooting performance: 8 fps (at servo AF - 5 fps)
  • AF point (when cross key is selected): 5,655 points
  • EVF : organic EL, 0.71 times
  • Auto Focus range: EV – 6 to 18 (23 ° C at room temperature · ISO 100 with F1.2 lens)
  • ISO sensitivity : 100 to 40000 (extended ISO: 50, 51200, 102400)
  • Shutter speed : 1/8000 to 30 seconds, bulb
  • Video : 4K 30p, full HD 60p, HD 120p
  • Rear liquid crystal : 3.15 type 2.1 million dots touch panel
  • Battery : LP-E6N
  • Battery grip: BG-E22 with 2 batteries
  • Size : Width of about 136 mm × height of about 98 mm
  • Weight : Approximately 580 g
  • Mount : inner diameter 54 mm, flange back 20 mm, 12 pin
  • Mount adapter : "Mount adapter EF - EOS R" "Control ring mount adapter EF - EOS R" "Drop - in filter mount adapter EF - EOS R"