Canon debuts dual lens for VR/3D; three RF lenses

Canon U.S.A., Inc., announced the RF-S7.8mm F4 STM DUAL lens, designed for social media content creators and videographers. Compatible with the Canon EOS R7 and the latest addition to the growing EOS VR System lineup, this lens has been crafted for those looking to create spatial video content. The 7.8mm focal length and 60-degree angle of view provide an immersive field of vision, for capturing detailed 3D content, allowing creators to deliver captivating and lifelike visual experiences.

The lens operates much like a traditional 2D RF-mount lens, with a straightforward workflow that empowers even newcomers to VR and spatial production to achieve impressive results. After capturing video with this interchangeable lens, users can leverage the EOS VR Plug-in for Adobe Premiere Pro to convert footage to 3D 180-degree VR, or the EOS VR Utility software (separately available with a paid subscription) to convert the footage into 3D 180° VR, 3D Theater, and spatial video ready to be experienced on devices like Apple Vision Pro and Meta Quest 3, offering a seamless transition from camera to immersive viewing.

“With the RF-S7.8mm F4 STM DUAL lens, Canon is not only providing a new visual tool but also enhancing the way creators communicate using emerging VR, spatial and 3D technologies,” said Hiroto Kato, vice president, Imaging Products & Solutions at Canon U.S.A., Inc. “This lens allows users to capture immersive content, bridging the gap between traditional content creation and the latest in VR and Spatial imagery. It’s an exciting step forward in making high-quality 3D content more approachable for everyone.”

The Canon RF-S7.8mm F4 STM DUAL lens is scheduled to be available in November 2024 for an estimated retail price of $449.99.

 Canon also launched three RF L series hybrid lenses: RF24mm F1.4 L VCM, RF50mm F1.4 L VCM and RF70-200 F2.8 L IS USM Z.

RF24mm F1.4 L VCM & RF50mm F1.4 L VCM

RF24mm F1.4 L VCM and RF50mm F1.4 L VCM lenses are designed for hybrid use and optimized for those switching from photo and video needs quickly. They feature an optical design utilizing the RF mount to achieve high quality across the entire image area. Quiet, fast and precise AF are thanks to Canon’s latest actuator and focusing system, and the unified exterior helps with easier gimbal adjustments for more efficient shooting. The expressive power of a f/1.4 aperture in combination with a wider field of view than what the human eye can capture, makes perspective more prominent and brings images vividly to life. Additional features include:

• Compact, with a length of 3.9 inches, and lightweight: RF24mm F1.4 L VCM is 18.1 ounces and RF50mm F1.4 L VCM is 20.4 ounces
• With a combination of VCM and Nano USM actuators, stable video composition with little breathing
• Customizable with an iris ring for controlling aperture during shooting, lens function button and customizable control and focus rings

RF70-200 F2.8 L IS USM Z

The RF70-200 F2.8 L IS USM Z is an RF L series lens that balances well as a companion on gimbals and rigs. Compatible with extenders, the RF70-200 F2.8 L IS USM Z produces high-quality images with its large f/2.8 zoom aperture and has minimal focus breathing, ideal for content creators. Its iris ring enables fine-tuned video recording and its compatibility with power zoom adapters makes it a strong addition for video production needs. Additional features include:

• Close up shooting with a maximum magnification of 0.3x
• Image stabilization equal up to 5.5 stops in the center on the lens alone, or up to 7.5 stops in the center, up to 7.0 stops in the corners in coordinate control within-body IS
• Dust and drip resistant construction as well as light weight at approximately 1,100 grams

The Canon RF24mm F1.4 L VCM and RF50mm F1.4 L VCM lenses are expected to be available in December at estimated retail price of $1,499.00 and $1,399.00, respectively. The Canon RF70-200 F2.8 L IS USM Z lens is expected to be available in November at estimated retail price of $2,999.00.