Let me share with you more on my Canon EOS R5 review journey, photographs that I shot with the review camera, my thoughts and views on this new Canon full-frame mirrorless camera that is born to rule.

Aesthetics 

When you hold the Canon EOS R5 camera body, you would find it very familiar. The Canon EOS R5 body is similar to the Canon EOS R, it has a top LCD panel, slightly bigger in width with dual card slots and bigger battery. It has a magnesium alloy body: Strong, sturdy, durable and solid feel, not too heavy and easy to carry around. 

Canon photographers rejoice! Our favourite joy stick is back! Although it’s easy to use the LCD screen for moving and controlling the auto-focus (AF) point, the joy stick gives us photographers another option when using the camera especially when we are looking through the viewfinder to photograph our subjects. Fast and accurate AF point movement on both LCD screen and viewfinder, making our photography easier and faster.

Dual card slots are back, another feature that photographers would like to have it (the earlier EOS R and EOS RP have single card slots) back on the EOS R series cameras. With two card slots, 1 for SD and 1 for CFexpress, you can record them separately, this would be most welcomed by working professionals. The CFexpress would provide the incredible speed needed for your high fps RAW shots and for your 8K videography production. 

Powered by the LP-E6NH battery (you can still use the LP-E6 and LP-E6N batteries), providing more juice for your photography and videography. Just like the Canon EOS R, there is also a cover protecting the sensor when the EOS R5 is switched off. 

Technology 

Photography 

One of the key features that I like about the Canon EOS R5 is the auto-focus (AF) capabilities. It’s powered by the latest DIGIC X processor and 45MP CMOS sensor. AF speed is fast and accurate, up to 20 FPS. Animal detection AF is excellent in most cases. The Dual Pixel CMOS AF II combined with the fast processing speed of the latest DIGIC X processor brought about big improvements in the EOS R5 AF capability.

The AF is responsive and fast when changing from viewfinder to LCD screen. Using the joystick allows easy movement of AF point/zone to the subject when looking through the viewfinder. The ISO is from 100 to 51,200, my personal tolerance level is around ISO 25,600 that I find it usable.

Eye tracking is fast and accurate, improved from Canon EOS R, making portraiture photography fast and ease of use to get the subject’s eyes sharp and accurate. The Animal detection AF is welcomed by wildlife photographers, fast AF speed, accuracy and ease of usage. 

AF – People / Animals / No priority 

AF – Eye tracking / Spot AF / 1-point / Expand AF area / Expand AF area : around / Zone AF / Large Zone AF : Vertical / Large Zone AF : Horizontal

The Large Zone AF: Vertical and Large Zone AF: Horizontal are two interesting AF selections that can be chosen by the photographer. These two selections would be helpful in animal/wildlife photography.

Servo AF 

Case 1 – Versatile multi purpose setting

Case 2 – Continue to track subjects, ignoring possible obstacles

Case 3 – Instantly focus on subjects suddenly entering AF points

Case 4 – For subjects that accelerate or decelerate quickly

Videography

In the modern world today, video has risen in prominence and significance with the rise of social media and internet usage. A modern digital camera is no longer just for photography, it now can produce excellent videos as well. 

On the Canon EOS R5, it’s easy to navigate and use the movie recording function. You can shoot in different modes, from 8K to FHD that would be sufficient for most leisure and serious amateur users. As for those into filmmaking, commercial videography, you have the options of shooting and showcasing in 8K format, or shoot in 8K and export to 4K format, or shoot in 4K. The video AF is fast, accurate and responsive, easy to use too.  

8K-D 25p / 24p (8192 x4320) 

8K-U 25p (7680×4320)

4K-D 50p / 4K-D 25p / 4K-D 24p (4096×2160)

4K-U 50p / 4K-U 25p (3840×2160)

FHD 50p (ALL-I / IPB) / FHD 25p (ALL-I /Standard IPB / Light IPB) (1920×1080)

Videography works with EOS R5

I didn’t get to spend more time doing videography works with the EOS R5 as I probably shoot more stills photography doing wildlife photography with the RF100-500mm lens. However, I did manage to shoot short video clips of 30s and 1min for my documentary coverage of Tanglin Halt and Clementi Forest, both areas that I have been documenting and photographing since 2011. 

I shot the videos in 8K format, while I have no qualms about the 8K video quality, it’s very demanding on computer hardware and resources. My videos are edited by fellow photographer Isaac Ong and I would upload them into YouTube and share here when the videos are ready. I would add on Isaac’s thoughts and views on the suggested computing hardware, technical specifications and resources required, should you be looking at doing 8K video production with the Canon EOS R5. 

5-axis In-Body Image Stabiliser 

There is the new 5-axis In-Body Image Stabiliser, coupled with Optical Image Stabiliser on the appropriate lens attached, this powerful function and features helps us photographers and videographers in our shoots that we sometimes don’t realise about the two features in action when using the Canon EOS R5.

From low light handheld photography to handheld videography work, the new 5-axis In-Body Image Stabiliser coupled with an appropriate Canon lens with Image Stabiliser are going to be a huge asset for the photographer and videographer using the Canon EOS R5.

Connectivity 

The Canon EOS R5 has both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity functions, allowing you to connect with your other smart devices such as your smartphone or tablet. Whether it’s for remote control shooting or file transfer, you can be assured of the seamless connectivity.

EOS R5 with RF lenses 

During my review of the Canon EOS R5, I took the opportunity to request for the Canon RF100-500mm f/4.5-7.1 L IS USM lens for review as well, pairing this telephoto zoom lens with the EOS R5. I had a great and fun time with this camera and lens combination, Canon EOS R5 with RF100-500mm f/4.5-7.1 L IS USM lens. 

This particular combination is very popular with Canon photographers who are into wildlife and sports photography, high megapixels paired with a versatile, quite portable and great quality telephoto zoom lens. For images shot at 500mm, and if you still require cropping, there are enough megapixels from the EOS R5 for the photographer to retain the quality and sharpness of the subject. 

It’s a breeze and ease to use the native RF lenses on the Canon EOS R5, and with more RF lenses coming into the market, Canon photographers now have a greater ease of mind on the RF lenses available, showcasing Canon’s commitment to the full-frame mirrorless camera market. 

TGH Photography x Canon EOS R5 Explorer Series Production

I brought the Canon EOS R5 for a revisit to Tanglin Halt estate, a HDB estate that I had covered, documented and photographed some years back. Soon, the old flats would no longer be around, I am glad to have capture it down into my memories, documentation, and archives with the Canon EOS R5 and my other Canon DSLR cameras that I shot some years back. 

Another location that I brought the Canon EOS R5 to photograph was the Clementi Forest and Old Jurong Railway line. I have been documenting and photographing this segment since 2011, I went back again when I was reviewing the Canon EOS R6 and back again for another round with the Canon EOS R5. 

Thoughts and views

One of the key factors that would attracts photographers to the Canon EOS R5 is the 45MP sensor.  It’s not just higher  and better quality, the sharpness and details of the images that you can produce and if you need more room for cropping, the 45MP is a breeze in the park. 

8K videography is an interesting topic, while the consumer world is not fully onboard using 4K, the commercial level is already preparing for 8K production. While some might view 8K as on overzealous feature based on current 4K usage rates, the Canon EOS R5 in my humble personal opinion is forward thinking. The EOS R5 is inclined towards the pool of commercial photographers, production houses, filmmakers and videographers. With both high quality stills photography and 8K videography capabilities, you have the best of both worlds. 

Some other quick pointers and short summaries

• Dual card slots: 1 for SD, 1 for CFexpress card. While the CFexpress would provide the incredible speed needed for your high fps RAW shots and for your 8K videography production, the costs to add those storage cards are going to increase your overall camera investment budget.
• New 5-axis In-Body Image Stabiliser x Optical Image Stabiliser: powerful function and features helps us photographers in our shoots.
• 45MP full-frame CMOS Sensor (new sensor) & Digic X processor, photographers would really appreciate the processing speed and output quality on your photos and videos.
• For photographers into wildlife photography – the EOS R5 has a much improved AF and Animal Detection AF (popular with wildlife photographers, EOS R5 with prime lens or RF100-500mm)
• The expanding EOS R family + RF lenses lineup is ushering in a new era of photography – Born to Rule

Although the Canon EOS R5 is an excellent camera that you may use for a longer period of time, you have to factor in the additional costs in the following areas to complement and support the Canon EOS R5, allowing it to unleash its full potential:

Additional hardware costs due to 

• Getting a new desktop computer setup that can handle 8K videos editing
• CFexpress storage cards are costly 
• Extra storage space on desktop computer, laptop, portable hdd or cloud storage 

Overheating issue

The topic on overheating on the Canon EOS R5 had been discussed quite a fair bit on the internet and social media. During my review of the EOS R5, I did encounter overheating when I was doing stills photography, I had to switch off, waited for it to cool down before I was able to resume. I made an adjustment, switching on Eco mode and slowing down the pace of my photography. Thereafter, I didn’t encounter any more overheating. 

Although I didn’t get to do as much videography with the Canon EOS R5 as I would like, I managed to shoot a few videos in 8K, keeping the clips to 30s and 1minute. During that time, I  encounter some heat dissipated, that is normal in recording videos. However, I didn’t encounter any major overheating issue. 

While the EOS R5 overheating issue has invited a number of discussions and debates, I feel that it’s a great camera overall. The full-frame mirrorless camera is a modern hybrid equipment for the modern photographer and videographer that is most welcomed by many creative professionals. Based on my understanding and research, the firmware update for the EOS R5 has improved the overheating issue. 

Understanding that the modern digital mirrorless camera is a hybrid camera, it’s not like a dedicated filmmaking/cinematic series camera if that’s what you are looking for. Cameras such as the EOS R5 gives us modern photographers (like me) to diversify and add videography/filmmaking into our services delivery. Knowing the engineering constraints of a hybrid camera, managing and adjusting how we shoot videos, might just be the small tips to manage the overheating issue (with the firmware updates applied as well).

Best of Both Worlds

In my personal humble opinion, The Canon EOS R5 at this current juncture in time, represents the best of both worlds together – Photography and Videography. From Reimagine Optical Excellence (EOS R), to Reimagine Your Potential (EOS RP) and now Born to Rule (EOS R5) and (EOS R6).

Although the upcoming Canon EOS R3 is going to open up more opportunities and diversity in Canon full-frame mirrorless line-up, the Canon EOS R5 might just suit your needs and requirements for your respective photography genres. 

A very powerful and fast mirrorless camera highly suitable and recommended for professionals, ideal for serious amateurs too. In a way, it’s similar to EOS 5D Mark IV, the Canon EOS R5 camera would be an easy transition for existing Canon photographers, the handling of the camera body and menu interface, it’s easy to use and get the hang of it. 

The Canon EOS R5 is recommended for

• Professional photographers moving over from DSLR setup to mirrorless setup upgrading from entry level DSLRs or entry level mirrorless cameras (choice of EOS R5, EOS R6 and EOS R to choose from and the upcoming EOS R3 as well)
• Professional photographers who need the higher megapixels and image quality 
• Portraiture, products, landscape
• Production houses 
• Filmmakers / Videographers  

Would this EOS R5 be my next camera upgrade/change? 

I am currently using Canon EOS-1DX Mark II and Canon EOS RP, there is a possibility that I might add either the EOS R5 or maybe the EOS R6 to my setup (or even maybe the upcoming EOS R3?). 

With the recent announcement on the development of the Canon EOS R3, how would this influence/change my plans for camera changes/upgrades? To be honest, I don’t have an answer yet (even though I secretly lust for the Canon EOS R3). The world of possibilities are out there for Canon photographers with choices to choose from EOS R5, EOS R6, EOS R, EOS RP and upcoming EOS R3.

However, I would still share my thoughts and views on the differences between Canon EOS R5 and R6 in my upcoming comparison article, for photographers who feel that the either the Canon EOS R5 or EOS R6 would suit their needs and usage. You can view more photographs shot with Canon EOS R5 here inside this Flickr photo album.

To all Canon photographers and those are thinking of coming on board the Canon EOS R full-frame mirrorless cameras and RF lenses family, you can now have even more confidence to embrace, adopt and enter into this new family, welcome onboard! (You can even keep your EF lenses too!).

*I would like to thank Canon Singapore for the opportunity to review the Canon EOS R5 full-frame mirrorless camera.* 

The post Canon EOS R5 Review appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

This mobile application (2) would definitely interest professional photographers who are able to transfer an image to FTP/FTPS/SFTP (3) server through a mobile device. For professional sports media or press on-site, this would be convenient for them. Transferring data through a fixed PC is the common method that many photographers are familiar with.

“Mobile File Transfer” supports the file transfer through a mobile device that has better portability, convenience and immediate, thus improving the efficiency of the post-shooting workflow.

High Speed Transmission of 5G

The Canon Mobile File Transfer application supports 5G (5th Generation Mobile Communication System) mobile devices and it enables professional photographers to upload large numbers of images to FTP/FTPS/SFTP servers at high speed. Apart from automatic and selective image transfer, filter transfer, which transfers images on pre-defined conditions, is also supported.

Function to Add Information for Efficient Data Transfer 

Metadata, such as the photographer’s name and image license information, can be added to images based on standards developed by IPTC (International Press Telecommunications Council) that major news companies and agencies participate in. Also, voice memos can be added to images transferred from the camera to the mobile devices on the application. The IPTC* metadata can be edited as well. 

Notes:

 (1) It will become chargeable from next version. 

(2) iOS14 and higher are supported. Android will be supported in future. 

(3) FTP：File Transfer Protocol, FTPS：File Transfer Protocol over SSL/TLS, SFTP：SSH File Transfer Protocol  

(4) The currently-in-development EOS R3 will be supported in next version which will be chargeable. 

* iOS is a trademark or registered trademark of Cisco in the U.S. and other countries and is used under license. 

* Android is a trademark of Google LLC.  

*** Information and picture courtesy of Canon Singapore and GLOO PR ***

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The Canon EOS R3 that is currently in development, is based on the concept of high speed, high sensitivity and high reliability. The EOS R3 will be introduced into Canon’s lineup of professional and enthusiast cameras that includes the EOS-1D X Mark III flagship DSLR camera (released in February 2020) and the EOS 5 series, including the EOS R5 full-frame mirrorless camera (released in July 2020). The EOS R3 aims to provide professional-level quality for both stills and video capture, even for moving subjects.

The EOS R3 is the first EOS series camera to be equipped with Canon’s newly developed 35mm full-frame backlit stacked CMOS sensor that makes possible high-speed readout. The camera also features a DIGIC X image processor for high-speed image processing that realises high-speed continuous shooting of up to 30 frames-per-second (1) (FPS) with AF/AE tracking when using the electronic shutter. In addition, the camera significantly reduces image warping, a common challenge with electronic shutters, and is also capable of capturing moving subjects with reduced noise in such low-light environments as indoor areas or nighttime scenes. 

Alongside Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology—by which each pixel on the image sensor possesses both image capture and phase-detect AF functionality, thus enabling high-speed, high-accuracy and wide-range AF—the EOS R3 uses an algorithm that employs deep learning technology that enables improved head and eye detection for human subjects as well as a new capability to detect subject torsos. Thanks to this enhanced performance, the camera’s autofocus system provides high-performance subject tracking, even during portrait photography and in scenarios with frequent subject movement such as sports. Development is also underway to enable detection of additional subject types. 

In addition, the EOS R3 is Canon’s first digital camera to feature Eye Control AF (2) functionality. When shooting still images and looking through the viewfinder, this new feature enables the AF frame to adjust according to detected movement of the user’s eye, making possible smoother shooting with quick focus when transitioning between subjects. 

The EOS R3 answers the sophisticated needs of professionals by providing dust and water resistance developed with each iteration of the EOS-1 series, body design with integrated vertical hand-grip, reliability and ease of use, as well as compatibility with Canon’s Mobile File Transfer (3), announced alongside the EOS R3, which supports high-speed workflows. 

Personal thoughts and views

As a current EOS-1D X Mark II user myself and a big fan of the Canon EOS 1D series cameras, the EOS R3 development news is very exciting for me! While I am eagerly awaiting the official announcement and technical specifications of the EOS R3. I am making a guess here that EOS R3 would be officially announced in Q3 2021, based on my experiences and coverage on the previous three Canon cameras, EOS-1D X Mark III and EOS R5 and R6 cameras.

The Canon EOS-1D X Mark III announced its development in October 2019, it was then subsequently officially announced in January 2020.

As for Canon EOS R5, their development was announced in February 2020, in July 2020, Canon officially announced Canon EOS R5 and EOS R6.

Would the EOS R3 mark the start of my migration to a full Canon RF system setup? I do not have an answer at this point in time. The EOS R system and RF lenses have improved tremendously and expanded their lenses lineup from the time Canon announced  their first full-frame mirrorless camera EOS R, followed by the EOS RP to EOS R5 and EOS R6 of today. More RF lenses are coming, making the Canon EOS R and RF lenses eco-system an even more holistic and complete camera and lenses eco-system for both professionals and enthusiasts alike.

Since the EOS R3 is currently in development, the technical specifications are kept under wraps until it is officially announced. Just for the fun of it, I am making a guess on some of EOS R3 specifications:

EOS R3: 40MP, 8K video

With reference to selected Canon cameras, EOS-1D X Mark III: 20.1MP, 4K video | EOS R5: 45MP, 8K video | EOS R6: 20.1MP, 4K video | EOS 5D Mark IV: 30.1MP, 4K video

Stay tuned as we await the official announcement of the upcoming Canon EOS R3 full-frame mirrorless camera that is going to be a high speed, high sensitivity and high reliability camera.

Notes:

(1) Continuous shooting frame rate may decrease depending on the attached lens and/or shooting environment  

(2) This feature may not be useable depending on such factors as users’ wearing of sunglasses, hard contact lenses or glasses for vision correction, as well as individual characteristics including eye size, eyelid thickness and eyelash length  

(3) Compatible with iOS only. EOS R3-compatible version requires paid purchase. Both wired and wireless connections are supported, but wired connection requires compatible USB cable (purchased separately by user). 

* IOS is a trademark or registered trademark of Cisco in the U.S. and other countries and is used under license.  

** Information and picture courtesy of Canon Singapore and GLOO PR **

The post Canon Announced Development of EOS R3 Full-frame Mirrorless Camera appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

The PowerShot ZOOM is light and compact, weighing only 145g and it’s about the size of the smaller power banks, thus making it very convenient for users to keep it in their pocket or bag and bring it along for outdoor activities. Since it’s lightweight and compact, users can operate the PowerShot ZOOM with just one hand.

The PowerShot ZOOM has three modes of magnification, this would let users zoom into the moment quickly without missing out on the action. Whether you are enjoying the flora and fauna in nature parks, admiring the sceneries from high elements such as Mount Faber and Marina Bay Sands, or even simply capturing children playing at the playground from afar.

Edwin Teoh, Head of Marketing, Singapore Operations, Canon Singapore said: “As a pocket-sized digital monocular camera, the PowerShot ZOOM is a handy companion for users who are on the go and want to quickly zoom into, shoot and even record precious and fleeting moments in life for instances that mobile devices may not adequately do the job. 

With just three buttons for the main navigation, it is simple to use so that it can be enjoyed by anyone in the family, whether it’s the kids who want to zoom in on the Blue-Eared Kingfisher that can be spotted at Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, or parents who want to capture their children scoring that winning goal at a football match.” 

Simple, Fun and Easy to Use

Zooming, shooting and recording on the PowerShot ZOOM is straightforward and fast, letting users quickly capture fleeting moments such as children scoring a point at the basketball court and birds resting on branches at nature parks. Pressing the zoom button located at the top of the device lets users zoom into three modes (100m, 400m and 800m magnification) instantly. To take a photo or record a video, users can simply press the photo or record button at the bottom of the device. 

The PowerShot ZOOM also sports a telescopic design and comes with autofocus and image stabilisation, which provides a comfortable viewing experience during prolonged use. The features also let users easily capture clearer shots of players running across the football field or a flock of birds flying across the treetops. 

Designed to be used on the go, the PowerShot ZOOM can be charged via the supplied Type-C to Type-C interface cable with a compatible charger or power bank (sold separately). A full battery charge provides approximately 60 minutes of movie record time, 150 still shots and a live viewing time of 70 minutes. The PowerShot ZOOM uses a microSD card as storage media. 

Seamless Connectivity with Smartphones for Sharing on the Go

For easy sharing on various social media platforms, images recorded on the PowerShot ZOOM can be transferred to a smartphone via Canon’s Camera Connect app wirelessly or via wired USB. With the Camera Connect app, users can perform remote shooting and share the images being viewed in real time, on a smartphone with family and friends.

When the PowerShot ZOOM is connected to a smartphone via a wired USB cable, it is recognized as a USB mass storage device, and images can be imported into the smartphone. 

Thoughts and Views

I had a short hands on with the PowerShot ZOOM when I went on a photo walk with Ryan Cheng, a fellow photographer who had the Canon PowerShot ZOOM for a review. His photos that he shot from this digital monocular camera is published inside my article.

I had the opportunity to try out the PowerShot ZOOM . It’s simple to use, it’s also really handy and useful especially for wildlife photographers. This PowerShot ZOOM is a mix of a monocular camera and scope/binoculars. Not only can you take photos, you would be able to “mark out” the location before you switch to your   camera and lens setup to photograph the wildlife.

I reckon this would be an excellent complement to a setup such as Canon EOS R5 or Canon EOS R6 with RF100-500mm f/4.5-7.1L IS USM lens, the new favourite Canon mirrorless lens and telephoto zoom lens combination for wildlife photography.

Canon PowerShot Zoom Technical Specifications 

Pricing and Availability

The Canon PowerShot ZOOM will be available at authorised dealers in April 2021 at a retail price of $459.

* Information and pictures courtesy of Canon Singapore and GLOO PR *

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In my short hands on experience article that I published in July 2020, I confessed that I wasn’t really into lenses with focal length range of 100-500mm as my setup was geared towards the holy trinity setup and big prime lenses. During the period when I was reviewing the Canon RF100-500mm f/4.5-7.1L IS USM lens, I was enlightened, my perceptions and views of this focal length range changed.  

A favourite lens for wildlife photographers 

I have been reading and looking at Facebook groups/pages posts on wildlife photographs shot in Singapore. There is a trend on these combinations of Canon EOS R5 or EOS R6 with RF100-500mm lens. I had chats with the folks from my local camera shop that I regularly go to, this is quite a popular camera and lens combination that the photographers wanted to get.

When I had the RF100-500mm lens with the Canon EOS R5 for review, I finally understood and realise why this is such a popular combination and setup. From my adventures at Jurong Bird Park, to West Coast Park, Bukit Batok Nature Park, Pasir Ris Park and Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve. I photographed quite a lot of wildlife photographs.

The 100mm to 500mm range is versatile for wildlife photography, you would not be constrained by shorter focal lengths or a fixed focal length lens. The photographs quality are sharp even when shooting at its maximum aperture. 

This would not be the fastest lens since it’s not a constant aperture lens, nevertheless the AF is pretty impressive and fast when paired with the EOS R5 body (and I believe it would be just as good with the EOS R6 body too).

More than just a lens for wildlife and sports photography 

Although this lens is probably going to be more geared towards wildlife and sports photography, it’s a versatile lens that photographers can use for sports, travel and landscapes too. While I didn’t get the opportunity to photograph sports events with this lens, I was able to photograph people/machines in action from a distance away and landscapes too. 

Photographing landscapes with this 100mm to 500mm focal length range telephoto lens is probably less common, even less common in Singapore when it’s a small country by land size and honestly speaking, it doesn’t have much of a wide and vast landscapes in big countries that I visited. Using the RF100-500mm to shoot landscapes in Singapore, I managed to capture some beautiful moments that I really like and didn’t expect to come out in a way that I would expect from my travel photography trips overseas. 

Personal thoughts and views

This is a lens that change my view on long focal length range telephoto zoom lens. While I am a user and supporter of zoom lenses such as 24-70mm and 70-200mm focal range, a longer range focal length such as 70-300mm or 100-400mm didn’t attract me as much initially in my photography adventures. I was more inclined towards prime telephoto lens such as the 300mm f/2.8L for their speed and optics. During the period when I was reviewing the RF100-500mm f/4.5-7.1L IS USM lens, it changed my view and approach towards wildlife, sports and action photography. I am now more inclined towards focal length range telephoto zoom lens, keen to get this lens some time down the road.

Key factors and points that convinced and changed me after using RF100-500mm f/4.5-7.1L IS USM lens

• Lighter in weight
• More versatile than a fixed focal length prime lens 
• Easier to carry and move around with faster reaction time when photographing wildlife/sports versus a fixed prime lens on a tripod 
• The optics quality and AF speed is excellent considering that it’s not a fixed focal length prime lens
• Price is a lot lower as compared to a fixed focal length prime lens 

A versatile, portable and not too heavy telephoto zoom lens with excellent optics quality that is comparable to a prime lens. Since it’s not a constant aperture lens, the auto-focus speed may not be as fast as a prime lens. However, when paired with the Canon EOS R5 or R6, the AF speed is still pretty fast and impressive. 

This remarkable lens is very Ideal for wildlife, sports and travel, sometimes landscapes too. In the wildlife and birding community, a number of photographers have the Canon EOS R5 or Canon EOS R6 and RF100-500mm setup, a powerful, ideal, excellent and popular combination of both AF speed, AF accuracy, optics and output quality (45MP Canon EOS R5 sensor provides lot of details even when cropping in). 

The retail recommended price for the Canon RF100-500mm f/4.5-7.1L IS USM lens is SGD$4,459, compared to a cost of a big aperture prime lens, it’s not that expensive.

The Canon RF100-500mm f/4.5-7.1L IS USM lens is a versatile, portable and not too heavy telephoto zoom lens, very ideal and suitable for wildlife photographers, sports and travel. This highly capable long range telephoto zoom lens gives photographers options to choose from for their wildlife or sports photography. A value for money top quality Canon L lens that gives photographers, versatility and portability versus the more expensive prime telephoto lens. Whether it is a telephoto zoom lens or telephoto prime lens, photographers have the options available to choose from. 

More photographs shot with the RF100-500mm f/4.5-7.1L IS USM lens can be viewed here inside this Flickr photo album. Do check out my other photo albums on Flickr, Canon EOS R5, Canon EOS R6, Canon RF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM and Canon RF24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM and check out my articles on my recent reviews and testings of the Canon EOS R5, Canon EOS R6, Canon RF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM and Canon RF24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM.

* I would like to thank Canon Singapore for the opportunity to review the Canon RF100-500mm f/4.5-7.1L IS USM lens *

The post Canon RF100-500mm f/4.5-7.1L IS USM Review appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

Canon’s 70-200mm L range is built on a legacy and strong standing from the EF70-200mm series, both f/2.8L and f/4L models. They are well loved by professionals and serious amateurs alike, for its accuracy, sharpness, optics and versatility. I started off with the EF70-200mm f/4L USM before upgrading to EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM. The RF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM lens is built upon those strong foundations and it got even better, sharper and lighter with the modern RF lens mount and EOS R technology. 

During my review of the Canon RF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM lens, I shot a wide range of photography genres from portraiture, wildlife, product and landscapes. This lens was a breeze to use, fast and accurate, sharp and clear photographs, sweet bokeh at f/2.8 too! For those photographers who regularly use the 70-200mm focal length range especially Canon users who have the EF70-200m f/2.8L or EF70-200mm f/4L lenses, this would be a very familiar lens to you when you use it. I personally own the EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM lens and I can attest to its quality and versatility. 

Here are some of my content creation articles shot with the Canon RF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM lens:

SingapoRediscovers with Canon RF24-70mm and RF70-200mm 

Sudio Tolv Audio Photography Adventure

After using and testing the RF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM lens, I am also considering whether to make the switch from EF to the RF model even though I am using both EF mount (with my Canon EOS-1DX Mark II) and RF mount lenses (with my Canon EOS RP) in my current setup.

Thoughts and Views

The 70-200mm focal length lens is well loved by professionals, it can cover a number of different photography genres. The photographs shot with this lens are sharp, detailed and beautiful. Bokeh at f/2.8 is creamy, smooth and beautiful. It’s a fast and accurate lens, photographers would love this lens and I do know a number of photographers swear by the 70-200mm lens. 

The RF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM lens is compact, shorter and lighter than its EF counterpart, the EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM lens. One distinct difference is when you zoom out, the lens barrel is extended in the RF model versus internal barrel extension in the EF model. There might be some photographers who have concerns on the lens barrel extension allowing air/dust to get inside the lens and/or those who prefer the internal barrel extension in the EF model. 

Personally, I believe and trust in Canon’s L lens engineering, design and built quality, along with its weather sealing, they have decades of L lenses design and production. I have pushed my EF 17-40mm and EF70-200mm L lenses in the outdoors and commercial work for over a decade, they are very sturdy and can handle such demanding conditions. The RF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM lens can handle the outdoors and commercial usage just like their predecessors from their EF L lenses family. 

The Canon RF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM is most welcomed by professionals, part of the RF holy trinity lenses setup from the Canon RF family (add the RF15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM and RF24-70mm f/2.8 L IS USM lenses to complete the setup).

With the lens image stabilisation up to 5 stops and paired with the EOS R5 or EOS R6 with the 5-axis In-Body Image Stabiliser feature, this powerful function and features helps us photographers and videographers in our shoots that we sometimes don’t realise about the two features in action when using the Canon EOS R6 or EOS R5 that would be most welcomed by photographers. 

Key information on Canon RF70–200mm f/2.8L IS USM

• Filter size: 77mm
• Max aperture: f/2.8
• Weight: 1070g 
• Image Stabilisation: up to 5 stops
• Electronic floating focus control with 2 Nano USM
• Additional Control Ring
• Dust and Drip Resistant 

For working professionals who wish to switch to Canon EOS R and RF lenses setup, the RF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM is one of the lenses that you would definitely be getting (or you want to have) for your professional photography setup. There is also the RF70-200mm f/4L IS USM lens that is now available in the market for you to have options to choose from.

More photographs shot with Canon RF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM lens can viewed inside this Flickr photo album. Do check out my Canon EOS R6 review article and Canon EOS R5 review article and photos shot with the EOS R6 and EOS R5 in this Flickr photography collections. If you are planning to get the RF holy trinity lenses setup, here’s my RF24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM review article and photos shot using RF24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM inside this Flickr photo album. 

I would like to thank Canon Singapore for the opportunity to review the Canon RF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM lens.

The post Canon RF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM Review appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

Canon’s 24-70mm L range is built on a legacy and strong standing from the EF24-70mm series, both f/2.8L and f/4L models. They are well loved by professionals and serious amateurs alike, for its accuracy, sharpness, optics and versatility. The RF24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM lens is built upon those strong foundations and it got even better with the modern RF lens mount and EOS R technology. 

During my review of the Canon RF4-70mm f/2.8L IS USM lens, I shot a wide range of photography genres from portraiture, landscapes, product, street, cats. This lens was a breeze to use, fast and accurate, sharp and clear photographs, sweet bokeh at f/2.8 too! For those photographers who regularly use the 24-70mm focal length range especially Canon users who have the EF24-70m f/2.8L or EF24-70mm f/4L lenses, this would be a very familiar lens to you when you use it. I personally own the EF24-70mm f/4L IS USM lens and I can attest to its quality and versatility. 

Here are some of my content creation articles shot with the Canon RF24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM lens:

SingapoRediscovers with Canon RF24-70mm and RF70-200mm 

Cute and Friendly Neighbourhood Cats!

Sudio Tolv Audio Photography Adventure

OtterBox and LifeProof protection for your Apple iPhone 12 series

Jabra Evolve2 85 x Sonnenglas x Star Wars Lego x TGH Photography

Using the RF24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM lens, I am also considering whether to make the switch from EF to the RF model even though I am using both EF mount (with my Canon EOS-1DX Mark II) and RF mount lenses (with my Canon EOS RP) in my current setup.

Shooting videos with the RF24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM was pretty good, with the lens IS and paired with the 5-axis In-Body Image Stabiliser inside the EOS R6 or EOS R5, they make handheld videography smooth, stable and easy to use. I shot two videos using Canon EOS R6 with RF24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM lens. Both videos were shot by me, editing was by fellow photographer Isaac Ong. 

Cute and Friendly Neighbourhood Cats

BBQ with  Chef Keith

Thoughts and Views

The 24-70mm focal length lens is well loved by professionals. It’s a very versatile lens that can cover many photography genres, wide at 24mm and a bit of telephoto at 70mm. The photographs shot with this lens are sharp, detailed and beautiful. Bokeh at f/2.8 is creamy, smooth and beautiful. 

The Canon RF24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM is most welcomed by professionals, part of the RF holy trinity lenses setup from the Canon RF family (add the RF15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM and RF70-200mm f/2.8 L IS USM lenses to complete the setup).

With the lens image stabilisation up to 5 stops and paired with the EOS R5 or EOS R6 with the 5-axis In-Body Image Stabiliser feature, this powerful function and features helps us photographers and videographers in our shoots that we sometimes don’t realise about the two features in action when using the Canon EOS R6 or EOS R5 that would be most welcomed by photographers. 

Key information on Canon RF24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM

• Filter size: 82mm
• Max aperture: f/2.8
• Weight: 900g 
• Image Stabilisation: up to 5 stops
• Nano USM
• Additional Control Ring
• Dust and Drip Resistant 

For working professionals who wish to switch to Canon EOS R and RF lenses setup, the RF24-70mm f/2.8 L IS USM is one of the lenses that you would definitely be getting (or you want to have) for your professional photography setup.

More photographs shot with Canon RF24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM lens can viewed inside this Flickr photo album. Do check out my Canon EOS R6 review article and Canon EOS R5 review article and photos shot with the EOS R6 and EOS R5 in this Flickr photography collections.

I would like to thank Canon Singapore for the opportunity to review the Canon RF24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM lens.

The post Canon RF24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM Review appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

The opportunity came for me to do a review with the Canon EOS R6, let me share with you my insights, views, thoughts, photographs and videos shot with the Canon EOS R6 full-frame mirrorless camera.

Aesthetics 

The Canon EOS R6 camera body is very similar to the Canon EOS RP, there is no top LCD panel, it’s also slightly bigger in width with dual card slots and bigger battery. It has a magnesium alloy body: Strong, sturdy, durable and solid feel, you would feel that it’s not too heavy and it would be easy to carry around. 

The EOS R6 LCD touch screen is easy to use, it has an intuitive navigation menu that allows users to quickly navigate and change their settings. 

Canon photographers rejoice! Our favourite joy stick is back! Although it’s easy to use the LCD screen for moving and controlling the auto-focus (AF) point, the joy stick gives us photographers another option when using the camera especially when we are looking through the viewfinder to photograph our subjects. Fast and accurate AF point movement on both LCD screen and viewfinder, making our photography easier and faster.

Dual card slots are back, another feature that photographers would like to have it (the earlier EOS R and EOS RP have single card slots) back on the EOS R series cameras. With two SD card slots, you can record them separately, this would be most welcomed by working professionals. 

Powered by the LP-E6NH battery (you can still use the LP-E6 and LP-E6N batteries), providing more juice for your photography and videography. Just like the Canon EOS R, there is also a cover protecting the sensor when the EOS R6 is switched off. 

Technology 

Photography 

One of the key features that I like about the Canon EOS R6 is the auto-focus (AF) capabilities. It’s powered by new DIGIC X and CMOS sensor inherited from Canon flagship professional DSLR EOS-1DX Mark III. AF speed is fast and accurate, up to 20 FPS. Animal detection AF is excellent in most cases. The Dual Pixel CMOS AF II combined with the fast processing speed of the DIGIC X processor brought about big improvements in the EOS R6 AF capability. 

The AF is responsive and fast when changing from viewfinder to LCD screen. Using the joystick allows easy movement of AF point/zone to the subject when looking through the viewfinder. The ISO is from 100 to 102,400, my personal tolerance level is around ISO 51,200 that I find it usable.

Eye tracking is fast and accurate, improved from Canon EOS R, making portraiture photography fast and ease of use to get the subject’s eyes sharp and accurate. The Animal detection AF is welcomed by wildlife photographers, the speed, accuracy and ease of usage. 

AF – People / Animals / No priority 

AF – Eye tracking / Spot AF / 1-point / Expand AF area / Expand AF area : around / Zone AF / Large Zone AF : Vertical / Large Zone AF : Horizontal

The Large Zone AF: Vertical and Large Zone AF: Horizontal are two interesting AF selections that can be chosen by the photographer. These two selections would be helpful in animal/wildlife photography.

Servo AF 

Case 1 – Versatile multi purpose setting

Case 2 – Continue to track subjects, ignoring possible obstacles

Case 3 – Instantly focus on subjects suddenly entering AF points

Case 4 – For subjects that accelerate or decelerate quickly

Videography

In the modern world today, video has risen in prominence and significance with the rise of social media and internet usage. A modern digital camera is no longer just for photography, it now can produce excellent videos as well. 

On the Canon EOS R6, it’s easy to navigate and use the movie recording function. You can shoot in different modes, from 4K to FHD that would be sufficient for most leisure and serious amateur users, and 4K might be enough for those shooting commercial videos/short films too. The video AF is fast, accurate and responsive, easy to use too.  

4K 50p / 4K 25p / FHD 50p / FHD 25p Standard (IPB) / FHD 25p Light (IPB)

Video works shot with Canon EOS R6 

Although I spent more time on photography with the Canon EOS R6, I did spent some time shooting videos with the new camera. Here are two videos that were shot by me, editing was handled by Isaac Ong, a fellow photographer. Isaac has been an enormous help to me, in the videography/filmmaking department, taking some workload off me.

Community Cats

For cat lovers, I reckon you would love this video, great captions and text by Isaac, who is a big cat lover too!

BBQ with Chef Keith

Chef Keith is a personal friend of mine, I had shot a number of times on his cooking, plating and . However, this is the first time that I am doing a video of his BBQ cooking and I was happy to capture it down inside this short video with the Canon EOS R6.

5-axis In-Body Image Stabiliser 

There is the new 5-axis In-Body Image Stabiliser, coupled with Optical Image Stabiliser on the appropriate lens attached, this powerful function and features helps us photographers and videographers in our shoots that we sometimes don’t realise about the two features in action when using the Canon EOS R6.

From low light handheld photography to handheld videography work, the new 5-axis In-Body Image Stabiliser coupled with an appropriate Canon lens with Image Stabiliser are going to be a huge asset for the photographer and videographer using the Canon EOS R6. 

Connectivity 

The Canon EOS R6 has both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity functions, allowing you to connect with your other smart devices such as your smartphone or tablet. Whether it’s for remote control shooting or file transfer, you can be assured of the seamless connectivity. 

EOS R6 with RF lenses 

During the time I had with the Canon EOS R6 camera for review, I had the opportunity to test out and review two RF lenses as well. They were the RF24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM and RF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM lenses.

The new generation of RF lenses are excellent with its optics, AF speed and the seamless integration with the EOS R camera series. There is also the RF15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM lens, with these three lenses, they are the new age holy trinity lenses that would be welcomed by most working/commercial photographers, as well as for the serious amateurs too.

I would share more of my insights, thoughts and views on the two Canon RF lenses in two separate review articles for them. Meanwhile, you can view photos shot with the Canon RF70-200mm f/2.8 L IS USM in this Flickr photo album and the Canon RF24-70mm f/2.8 L IS USM in the other Flickr photo album.

TGH Photography x Canon EOS R6 Explorer Series Production

Ever since I was exposed to the world of exploring, wanderlust and traveling from a young age, I have a strong passion for exploring and documenting my photographs and stories. This style might be old school stuff to the younger generation, it means something special to me. 

I created special TGH Photography x Canon cameras explorer series whenever I have a Canon camera for review, giving rise to this particular TGH Photography x Canon EOS R6 Explorer Series Production. Here are my mini stories from the Canon EOS R6 Explorer Series Production.

Launch of TGH Photography Zine Vol 1. – SG55 Special Edition

Seiko SNA411P1 – A flight master watch for the explorer

Cute and Friendly Neighbourhood Cats! 

Sudio Tolv Audio Photography Adventure

OtterBox and LifeProof protection for your Apple iPhone 12 series 

Thoughts and views

• Equipped with 20.1MP, it’s suitable and able to handle most photography genres and usage
• Powered by new DIGIC X and CMOS sensor inherited from Canon flagship professional DSLR EOS-1DX Mark III.
• You can shoot up to 20 FPS
• A most welcome return for dual card slots and joy stick 
• New 5-axis In-Body Image Stabiliser x Optical Image Stabiliser: powerful function and features helps us photographers in our shoots
• The expanding EOS R family + RF lenses lineup is ushering in a new era of photography – Born to Rule
• Animal / Wildlife photography rejoice – A much improved AF and Animal Detection AF (popular with wildlife photographers, EOS R6 with prime telephoto lens or RF100-500mm)
• AF on small wildlife (e.g. small birds) can be tricky at times, there were times whereby AF wasn’t accurate. 
• You can shoot up to 4K 50p videos, sufficient for most leisure and serious amateur users, might be enough for those shooting commercial videos/short films too
• A powerful and fast mirrorless camera for professionals and serious amateurs. Similar to 6D Mark II technical specifications.

For current Canon photographers, it would be a familiar sight and feel for you. It’s easy to use and handle, from the camera body and to menu interface on the LCD screen. The Canon EOS R6 brings the best of both worlds together – Photography and Videography.

From Reimagine Optical Excellence (EOS R), to Reimagine Your Potential (EOS RP) and now Born to Rule (EOS R6 and EOS R5), the world of Canon EOS R cameras are getting more exciting with a full-frame mirrorless camera suitable for each and everyone of you, from the professionals to amateur/leisure photographers.

In my personal humble opinion, I would recommend Canon EOS R6 full-frame mirrorless camera for the following segments: 

• Photographers (especially professionals and serious amateurs) who are moving over from DSLR setup to mirrorless setup
• Upgrading from entry level DSLRs or entry level mirrorless cameras 
• Serious amateurs who love to explore and expand their photography further and wider
• Users whose emphasis is on photography first, videography second

Would this Canon EOS R6 be my next camera upgrade/change? Or would I go for the Canon EOS R5?

Although my current Canon cameras setup are the Canon EOS-1DX Mark II and EOS RP, there is a possibility that I might add either the EOS R6 or EOS R5 to my setup down the road, or I might wait out for future Canon EOS R series announcements before making a decision on my next upgrade/change.  

As a current Canon EOS-1DX Mark II and Canon EOS RP user, the Canon EOS R6 is a very familiar camera to me, not just in the aesthetics and layout similar to the Canon EOS RP, that’s also the inherited capabilities and technical features from the Canon EOS-1DX series. 

I would share my thoughts and views on both Canon EOS R5 and R6 in a separate article after my EOS R5 review article is published. Meanwhile, you can view more photographs shot with Canon EOS R6 here inside this Flickr photo album.

I would like to thank Canon Singapore for the opportunity to review the Canon EOS R6 full-frame mirrorless camera. 

The post Canon EOS R6 Review appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

The 70-200mm focal length lens is a lens that is highly coveted by many photographers, a workhorse and versatile lens. Having both f/2.8 and f/4 models in the 70-200mm series, it caters to both professionals and enthusiasts alike. I previously owned a EF70-200mm f/4 L USM lens before moving to my current EF70-200mm f/2.8 L IS USM lens, both f/4 and f/2.8 lenses are excellent in optics and quality. For photographers into commercial work, the f/2.8 lens would be highly recommended. I am currently reviewing the RF70-200mm f/2.8 L IS USM lens, I am hugely impressed by its quality and focus speed. With the announcement of the RF70-200mm f/4 L IS USM lens, photographers (who are current Canon EOS R system users or those who are thinking/planning to embark on the EOS R system) can be assured of the excellent optics and quality of the RF70-200mm L series lenses are built upon from Canon’s strong foundations and proven excellence in their EF70-200mm L series lenses.

The RF70-200mm f/4 L IS USM is the world’s shortest and lightest (1) 70-200mm f/4 interchangeable lens, bringing a host of new features that will entice advanced amateurs and professionals who are particular about image quality and performance. Going towards the other end of the focal length spectrum, the RF50mm f/1.8 STM is Canon’s latest 50mm prime lens that is fast yet affordable. 

“Beyond expanding Canon’s mirrorless line up with standout camera bodies like the recently launched EOS R5 and R6, we are committed to complementing them with native RF lenses  to enhance the shooting experience,” said Edwin Teoh, Head of Marketing, Singapore Operations, Canon Singapore. “Photographers know that using prime lenses can inspire more creativity, and the affordable RF50mm f/1.8 STM provides a similar field of view as the human eye, which makes it very versatile. For those interested in shooting wildlife or sports, the RF70- 200mm f/4L IS USM is a capable telephoto zoom that gives you extra reach and sharp images in a lightweight package. With the addition of both new lenses, it strengthens the appeal of the EOS R system to all photographers.” 

RF70-200mm f/4 L IS USM – Small, Light and Far

The 70-200mm telephoto zoom lens is a versatile lens, very ideal and especially important if you like to shoot sports or wildlife. In other photography genres such as portraiture, events, the 70-200mm telephoto lens is a lens that most commercial photographers would have in their photography setup. For those who into travel photography, the RF70-200mm f/4 L IS USM lens is going to be a great addition, top quality telephoto lens yet lightweight and portable in size. While a telephoto lens usually comes with a cost due to the extra weight and size, the new RF70-200mm f/4 L IS USM bucks the trend by being the world’s smallest and lightest 70-200mm f/4 lens.

With most 70-200mm lenses weighing 800g and measuring an average of 176mm in length, the RF70-200mm f/4L IS USM comes in a lighter and slimmer body that weighs 695g while achieving a 32% reduction in length at just 119mm long. In fact, the RF70-200mm f/4L IS USM is only marginally longer than the RF24-105mm f4L IS USM lens. 

With its weight and length, making it easy to handle and carry around, it can be stored in a bag while still attached to the camera, unlike other conventional telephoto lenses that have to be removed from the camera before it can be stored away. Having the camera and lens attached inside your camera bag, allows you to start shooting right after taking the camera out from your bag, thus you will not/never miss the priceless movements and opportunities that you always strive to capture on your camera.

RF70-200mm f/4 L IS USM – Quiet and Sharp Shots All The Time

The RF70-200mm f/4L IS USM is able to deliver high image quality throughout the entire zoom range. Even when shooting at the longest 200mm end, the lens elements are arranged to reduce vignetting, chromatic aberration and ghosting. Conversely, the 9-blade circular aperture in the RF70-200mm f/4L IS USM maximises bokeh even at the edges of the image for soft, blurry backgrounds. 

The lens is also equipped with a Nano USM, Canon’s latest lens motor which has excellent high-speed performance. Focusing is highly accurate at any focal length even if the subject is standing at a distance. The Nano USM is also incredibly quiet, smooth, and suppresses focus breathing, which helps to produce fluid video shots. 

Not everyone shoots with a tripod and trying to keep a camera outfitted with a telephoto zoom lens steady can be a challenge, often resulting in blurry shots. RF70-200mm f/4L IS USM comes with an in-built Image Stablizer (IS) that provides up to 5-stops image stabilisation to ensure sharp images even when shooting handheld. The image stabilisation can go up to 7.5- stops when paired with either EOS R5 or EOS R6, allowing you to casually capture sharp images handheld when shooting dark scene even at the longest 200mm end. 

While commonly overlooked, a lens’ minimum focusing distance is an important specification. Regardless of the genre of photography you are interested in, the ability to focus at a much closer distance provides more flexibility when it comes to composing a shot. The RF70-200mm f/4L IS USM comes with a minimum focusing distance of 0.6m, which is much closer compared to the average distance of 1m for similar lenses. The reduction in minimum focusing distance also allows the RF70-200mm f/4L IS USM to achieve a maximum of 0.28x magnification. 

The RF70-200mm f/4L IS USM’s robust construction ensures that it is dust- and water-resistant with the extended part of the lens barrel possessing vibration and shock resistance as well. Coated with a heat shielding paint, the entire lens will perform optimally even in hot weather while the surface of the lens’ front element has a fluorine coating which repels oil and water. 

RF50mm f/1.8 STM – Getting the Prime Shot

One of the most popular focal lengths to shoot at, the humble 50mm prime lens is usually one of the first upgrades from a kit lens. The new RF50mm f/1.8 STM adds a large aperture of f/1.8 for low-light performance and those sought-after dreamy backgrounds in portrait shots. Compact and lightweight, it is ideal for street photography and snapshots without having to lug around a bulky lens. 

Offering a similar field of view as the human eye, the RF50mm f/1.8 STM is also suitable for many types of photography such as portraits, landscapes, and food photography. The minimum focusing distance of 30cm means you can get closer to the food, small items, and products that you are shooting. 

Despite being an affordable single focal length lens, the RF50mm f/1.8 STM has outstanding image quality due to the combination of its large aperture, the short back focus of the RF mount and the use of the PMo aspherical lens. Flaring, ghosting and coma aberration are all reduced, which results in clear, high-resolution images. 

Pricing and Availability 

Both new lenses will be available in December 2020 from Canon authorised dealers and pricing will be advised at a later date. 

Product Specifications 

Notes:

(1) As of November 3, 2020. Based on Canon’s research.

* Information and picture of Canon Singapore and GLOO PR *

The post Canon announced RF70-200mm f/4 L IS USM and RF50mm f/1.8 STM appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

Before I proceed further, this is NOT a review article. This article are my insights, thoughts, views from my short hands on experience along with my Q&A session with Canon Singapore Marketing. This article would be more like a continuation, Part Two of an earlier article that I published, “The Canon Mirrorless Journey from EOS M to EOS R”. Although it is NOT a review article, it’s a bit lengthy in content.

Through my session with Canon Singapore Marketing, I had a better understanding on the new EOS R cameras and RF lenses. In a nutshell, the EOS Family Hierarchy looks like this

EOS 1DX 

EOS R5 

EOS 5D 

EOS R + EOS R6 

Now let me share my thoughts and views of my short hands on experience with EOS R5, EOS R6 and new RF lenses. 

EOS R5

This is the Canon full-frame mirrorless camera that photographers want and have been waiting for. Canon has listened to photographers and customers feedback, this camera now has dual media cards slot. The iconic and well liked joystick and wheel controls are back on the EOS R5. The body and layout is similar to the EOS R. 

A hybrid camera, best of both worlds, for stills photography and videography, 8K video with no cropping and 45 megapixels. That’s a powerful camera for photographers, videographers and content producers.

8K video recording overheating concern? 

An issue that has been nitpicked by some overseas photography websites, a point to take note but with a wrong approach and mentality by the websites, probably a clickbait to drive web traffic to their website.

I brought up this topic for discussion as I was doing some homework and research from overseas websites and YouTube channels that are talking about this particular topic. From my understanding, maximum recording time is 29min 59 sec.

You can find Movie Shooting Time (or Movie Recording Time) Limit inside the camera’s manual by Canon. Raise your hands, how many of you read the whole manual, whether in pdf format or physical copy? 

When the Canon EOS R5 camera manual is available, I would download and have a read.

Points to take note from a photographer/videographer practical perspective:

• EOS R5 is a hybrid full-frame mirrorless camera that can do stills photography and videography. It’s not a standalone dedicated video camera recorder. 
• If you are looking to shoot non-stop 4K video for a long continuous period of time, you need to look at camcorders instead.The Canon Cinema EOS Camcorders and Camcorders are calling out to you.
• How often do you record video non-stop for 30 minutes and beyond? Unless you are mainly shooting conferences, major seminars presentation or live performances.
• Even if you are into producing vlogs, YouTube videos, short filmmaking, how often do you and can you video for 30mins or more without a break or pause, to check, reshoot? 

Should I have updated information and details on this, I might update it here or in my review article down the road.

In-Body IS + lens IS = holy combo, that’s what it should be, Canon now leads the way 

The photography industry was talking/discussing a lot on internet and social media a few years back. While it may seem that Canon took a much longer time to implement In-Body Image Stabiliser (In-Body IS), they didn’t want to put it in for the sake of putting it in. 

Yes, Canon listen to the feedback on the ground, from photographers and customers. This probably took them a bit longer than launching their full-frame mirrorless camera, a In-Body IS that works with the lens IS, with a new algorithm through new DIGIC X, “talking, coordinating and controlling” both IS on lens and camera body to work in tandem together simultaneously. 

That’s the way it should be for cameras utilising In-Body IS and lens IS, Canon now leads the way. 

Combining the best of the best together

This EOS R5 brings some of the best of the EOS Series, EOS 5D Mark IV (for its stills + video) + EOS 5DS or EOS 5DS R (MF quality stills photography) + latest DIGIC X + new sensor + revolutionary RF technology + EOS R series camera body, all together into that EOS R5.

EOS R6

For photographers who are a fan of the EOS-1DX series, you can go for the Canon EOS R6, it’s a mini EOS-1DX Mark III since it has inherited much of its hardware and technical specifications into the EOS R6 body. 

If you do not need the 8K video functions and high 45 megapixels, the EOS R6 is very suitable and more affordable, you can still shoot in 4K and with 20 megapixels, you can get most photography jobs done without too much worries. EOS R5 and EOS R6 have similar design,  layout and functionalities. The top layout is similar to the Canon EOS RP layout. 

The EOS R6 would be highly suitable for those wanting and ready to move into full-frame mirrorless cameras, whether you are an existing EOS DSLR user, or migrating from other brands, upgrading from APS-C cameras to full-frame camera.

RF100-500mm f/4.5-7.1L IS USM lens

This focal length range lens hasn’t really caught my attention previously as my setup is towards the holy trinity setup and big prime lens. However, I have to say that this focal length of 100-500mm range is versatile, lightweight and ideal for wildlife photography, sports and events photography too. 

I would love to try this lens out for wildlife photography when the opportunity arises to review this lens.

RF Extender 1.4x and RF Extender 2x

I sense exciting times ahead for the RF mount lenses. When would the RF300mm f/2.8 or RF400mm f/2.8 be out in the market? 

RF600mm f/11 IS STM and RF 800mm f/11 IS STM

We photographers and consumers need a mindset change that telephoto lenses must be at big apertures? Can telephoto lenses be lightweight, affordable and easy to use at f/11 aperture? The RF600mm and RF800mm are going to open up leisure (and maybe even commercial) photographers into owning telephoto lens.  

If you have the opportunity to try either one of the two telephoto lens, pair it with the RF Extender 2x and you would be able to see, feel and understand the power of Dual Pixel CMOS AF II in action, check out the AF at f/22. 

The materials used and built quality is pretty good for RF600mm and RF800mm lenses, considering that they are non L lenses. 

RF85mm f/2 IS STM

A popular focal length, the 85mm, ideal for portraits, can also be used as a macro lens as well. Affordable and lightweight. 

Final thoughts and views

Born to rule, a new era in the mirrorless camera segment, usability and durability, commitment to RF mount, EOS R full frame mirrorless. Excitement, Canon full-frame mirrorless is no longer playing catch up, it’s now leading the way.

Canon does listen to customers feedback and concerns, they are aware of the needs and wants of photographers. I still remember these two quotes that I wrote down, given by Canon Inc executives from my media sessions in 2016 at Canon EXPO Shanghai,

“We may look conservative but we know the trends” 

“We are not complacent”

Canon is and has always been committed to the mirrorless camera market, the messages were clear back then, even though there were no specific timeline nor indication of cameras to come. While Canon’s journey in full-frame mirrorless cameras, delivering the EOS R5 and EOS R6 to the market today in 2020, took a bit of a longer route and time, photographers now have a top range full-frame mirrorless EOS R5, accompanied by EOS R6, EOS R and EOS RP. Canon now has a range of different full-frame mirrorless cameras catering for most (if not all) photography genres.

The EOS R5 is highly suitable for production houses, commercial photographers, videographers, filmmakers, almost able to cover all genres of photography. A powerful hybrid camera for both stills photography and videography, the best of both worlds.

The price might be on the high side, yet given the power technical specifications, this is a worthy investment for the next 3-5 years, especially for those commercial photographers and production houses. 

What does the future holds for the EOS R and RF lenses family?

Canon has now set a high level benchmark for themselves and the full-frame mirrorless camera industry. Expectations would now be even higher. More RF lenses are on the pipeline, making the EOS R and RF mount series even more exciting in the very near future. 

An equivalent of the 1DX series EOS R? This would keep me very excited and interested.

On a personal/commercial photographer and videography/filmmaking approach

EOS R5, the hybrid camera for both commercial photography, videography and filmmaking. I always like the EOS 5D series and wanting to own a 5D Mark III or 5D Mark IV. The EOS R5 would be a great (almost perfect fit) as it covers both photography and videography. 

I have held back on getting a EOS 5D series as I am eagerly awaiting the next EOS R series camera even though I am using EOS RP and my trusted EOS-1DX Mark II. Now with the EOS R5 and R6, I have a good headache to plan, strategise and consider, how should I go about setting up my photography and videography combination, maybe it’s time to start my mini production house and digital marketing agency. 

The EOS R5 is the Canon full-frame professional mirrorless camera that many photographers are eagerly, anxiously or patiently waiting and wanting. It has finally arrived! Content creation and consumption of media is moving towards video in this current timeline and near future, the EOS R5 and R6 are going to be your trusted content creation gadgets.

I am most likely not buying the EOS R5 when it is officially out for sale in the market at the end of July 2020, as much as I would love to own this powerful packed (almost perfect) full-frame mirrorless camera, due to financial constraints and current economic downturn. However, I am looking at getting it some time down the road, maybe in 1 year’s time. The EOS R6 is good too, however my preference is the EOS R5. 

On the other hand, I do hope that I would be able to test and review the Canon EOS R5, EOS R6 and many more RF lenses that I would love to test and review, sharing with fellow photographers on Canon full-frame mirrorless photography through my Canon EOS RP Explorer Series Production. 

Canon full-frame mirrorless cameras journey has now transformed even further, setting a new standard for the full-frame mirrorless cameras industry. 

Born to Rule, the Canon EOS R5 has and will, leading the way for new full-frame mirrorless camera industry standards.

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