“Canon remains steadfast in its mission to address the varied needs of photographers through innovative product offerings. With the RF lens system, we’ve paved the way for groundbreaking lens designs, and the RF200-800mm f/6.3-9 IS USM exemplifies our commitment to adding unparalleled value to photographers. This lens offers a unique blend of extended super telephoto reach within a versatile zoom range, all while ensuring competitive pricing. Such an offering not only unlocks new creative avenues but also brings previously inaccessible possibilities within the grasp of photographers.” said Edwin Teoh, Head of Marketing, Singapore Operations, Canon Singapore.

Unprecedented Reach with Zoom Flexibility between 200mm to 800mm

There are two affordable super telephoto prime lenses in Canon’s line-up, the RF800mm f/11 IS STM and RF600mm f/11 IS STM. With the announcement of the RF200-800mm f/6.3-9 IS USM lens, this is going to offer zoom functionality, covering the telephoto focal range that would previously require at least 3 different lenses to cover. Whether your taking a bird in flight in the distance, or a motorsports athlete in various defining moments, the versatile 200mm to 800mm focal length range (320mm to 1280mm on an APS-C camera) let users seamlessly capture both close-ups and wider shots of the same subject simultaneously. This can be achieved without being restricted by the focal length or missing out capturing the moment due to changing of lenses. Coupled with the RF Extender 2X, the coverage is extended to 1600mm (2560mm on APS-C camera) sufficient for capturing stunning close-ups of the moon.

Convenient Handheld Shooting: Lightweight and Mobile with Up to 5.5 Stops’ Built-in IS

The RF200-800mm astounding zoom range might worry some photographers, however it only weighs 2,050g and 314.1mm long. This lens is comparable in size and weight to its counterparts that end at 600mm. This mobility makes it easy to follow and capture moving subjects when shooting handheld, even if they occur unexpectedly.

Up to 5.5 stops’ equivalent built-in optical image stabilization (2) effectively corrects the camera shake that becomes more prominent at long focal lengths, allowing sharp, stable images at as slow as 1/20 second even at the 800mm tele end. 

Designed for Action: High-speed AF, Operational Ease

Built for capturing high-speed action, the RF200-800mm f/6.3-9 IS USM is driven by the powerful Nano USM (Ultrasonic Motor), which also contributes to the lens’ compact size.  This enables fast and accurate focusing for stills, along with smooth and quiet focusing for video up to the entire image area with compatible cameras. Focus Breathing Correction is also supported. 

Swift, intuitive control extends to lens operations – in addition to a customisable focus/control ring, there are two lens function buttons that can be turned into shortcuts for functions such as AF or exposure control.

Dust- and Drip-resistant Sealing for Better Durability

Similar to an L-lens, the RF200-800mm f/6.3-9 IS USM features strategically placed dust- and drip-resistant sealing for better durability during outdoor shoots (3). It is also coated with white paint to reduce heat absorbency and internal temperature rise due to sunlight.

Personal Views and Thoughts

The RF200-800mm f/6.3-9 IS USM lens is going to further open up wildlife photography and sports photography at an affordable price, adding great versatility with the 200mm to 800mm focal length range, expanding a photographer’s needs/wants in both sports and wildlife photography. They would be ideal for those who are just starting into sports and/or wildlife photography, for those serious enthusiasts, I reckon. they would gladly welcome such a versatile super telephoto zoom lens especially if they are into sports and/or wildlife photography. As for professional photographers in the sports and/or wildlife segments, this might get their interest as well, as a backup or 2nd lens combo setup.

As a wildlife photographer and sports photographer, I hope to test and review the RF200-800mm f/6.3-9 IS USM lens when the opportunity arises, sharing my photographs, thoughts and views for this versatile telephoto zoom lens.

Pricing and Availability

The Canon RF200-800mm f/6.3-9 IS USM lens will be launched at a recommended retail price of $3,049. The availability will be advised at a later date.

Notes:

1.  As an AF interchangeable lens for full-frame sensor mirrorless cameras that have already been released as of November 1, 2023. (Based on Canon’s internal survey.)
2. At focal length of 800mm with EOS R. Yaw/Pitch directions.
3. This cannot guarantee complete exclusion of water and dust from entry.

Technical Specifications

* Information and pictures courtesy of Canon Singapore and Gloo *

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The RF100-300mm f/2.8L IS USM lens is based and innovated upon the EF300mm f/2.8L, a classic Canon telephoto lens for sports and action photography, that is renowned for its technology and excellent optical quality.

“With the new EOS R and RF lens ecosystem, Canon continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in photography. The RF100-300mm f/2.8L IS USM is a testament to this – delivering superlative optical quality with its fast constant aperture and a useful range of focal lengths. As a game-changer for photographers who demand speed, flexibility, and versatility, the RF100-300mm f/2.8L IS USM empowers them to capture decisive moments with unparalleled precision and clarity.” said Edwin Teoh, Head of Marketing, Singapore Operations, Canon Singapore.

 Canon RF100-300mm f/2.8L IS USM – The Speed and Flexibility to Capture Decisive Moments

Constant Aperture f/2.8: Freeze action decisively from wide to close-up

The RF100-300mm f/2.8L IS USM’s constant aperture design allows users to utilise the large f/2.8 maximum aperture throughout the entire zoom range, even at the 300mm tele end. With this, users can freeze decisive moments at faster shutter speeds, which gives them a better chance of getting their desired shots. 

The distinctive, extremely creamy bokeh achieved through telephoto shooting at f/2.8 makes the RF100-300mm f/2.8L IS USM useful for creative expression even in genres such as portraiture, fashion, and weddings.

Zoom convenience: Multiple lenses in one lightweight body

The RF100-300mm f/2.8L IS USM’s 100mm to 300mm zoom capability (160mm to 480mm on an APS-C camera) covers the range that typically requires at least two or three lenses to achieve (Combinations previously required to achieve 100-300mm at aperture f/2.8: 70-200mm f/2.8 lens + 300mm f/2.8 prime lens, or 100mm + 135mm + 300mm prime lenses). Users can now conveniently zoom to track and keep dynamic subjects, such as soccer ball or birds in flight within the frame, even in locations with restricted mobility. It also means less gear to carry.

Extender compatibility: Reach up to 960mm f/5.6

For occasions that require greater reach, simply attach one of the compact, lightweight RF extenders. With Extender RF2x, you can zoom up to 600mm (full-frame camera) or a whopping 960mm full-frame equivalent (APS-C camera/APS-C crop mode) while maintaining a maximum aperture of at least f/5.6! 

Lightest 300mm f/2.8 Constant Aperture Zoom Lens for Full-Frame Cameras on the Market (1)

The RF100-300mm f/2.8L IS USM + EOS R3 combination is lighter than the EF200-400mm f/4L IS USM Extender 1.4x alone, weight over 1kg less. It also offers substantial mobility savings than the EF300mm f/2.8L IS II USM + EOS-1D X Mark III while offering 3x zoom functionality. 

Fast Focusing, Optical Excellence

Driven by precise dual Nano USMs, AF is quick and accurate, complementing deep learning-based subject detection and tracking on cameras like the EOS R3. An innovative new electronic floating focus control system improves image quality while reducing weight, enhancing the signature RF mount L-series optical quality. This would enable sharp shots of swift action, right down to every sweat drop or feather detail.

The lens supports focus breathing correction during video shooting, delivering professional-looking footage straight out of the camera.

Other Notable Features

• Up to 5.5 stops’ in-lens image stabilisation; up to 6 stops’ image stabilisation through Coordinated Control IS 
• IS Modes 1,2, and 3: for image stabilisation optimised for different shooting situations
• 5 customisable lens function buttons: for direct lens operation regardless of camera orientation
• Signature white weather- and heat-resistant thermal barrier coating with matching Lens Hood ET-124
• Dust- and drip-resistant construction and sealing befitting L-series lenses

Pricing and Availability

The RF100-300mm f/2.8L IS USM will be available at the recommended retail price of $14,699 from end May 2023.

Notes:

(1) According to a survey by Canon. As of April 2023.

* Information and picture courtesy of Canon Singapore and Gloo *

The post New Canon RF100-300mm f/2.8L IS USM – Versatile Telephoto Lens appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

“The RF800mm f/5.6L IS USM and RF1200mm f/8L IS USM leverages Canon’s RF design technology to offer super telephoto lenses with unprecedented quality and increased usability, with a significant reduction in size and weight. Be it wildlife, sports, or astrophotography, these lenses have been engineered to meet the exacting requirements of photographers shooting in the super telephoto range,” said Edwin Teoh, Head of Marketing, Singapore Operations, Canon Singapore. “The addition of these lenses is a testament to Canon’s commitment to grow and strengthen the RF lens ecosystem, and continue providing photographers with a comprehensive focal length coverage to meet their needs.” 

Behemoths Downscaled: Size and Weight Reductions Up To 80% 

The RF1200mm f/8L IS USM cuts 13kg in weight (approx. 80%) and 299mm (approx. 35%) in length from its 16.5kg predecessor, the EF1200mm f/5.6L USM, even with the inclusion of an in-lens Optical Image Stabilizer (Optical IS). Meanwhile, the RF800mm f/5.6L IS USM achieves a 1.36kg (approx. 30%) weight reduction over its predecessor, the EF800mm f/5.6L IS USM. 

The significant downscaling was achieved by adding magnification optics towards the back of the optical designs of the EF400mm f/2.8L IS III USM and EF600mm f/4L IS III USM, two lenses which had also achieved significant size and weight reduction while maintaining high optical performance. 

Both lenses feature a highly durable vibration and shock-proof structure, with dust- and drip-resistant weather sealing to prevent moisture from entering. 

Reach Further with Extenders, Bolstered by AF Support 

Both the RF800mm f/5.6L IS USM and the RF1200mm f/8L IS USM are compatible with the Extender RF 1.4x and the Extender RF 2x. The focal lengths with the extenders are as follows: 

It is hard to find other camera systems which offer the ability to reach focal lengths of more than 1600mm on an autofocus-capable super telephoto lens and extender. 

When the lenses and extenders are combined with the EOS R system’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF, AF is possible over a wide coverage area even beyond maximum aperture f/8—up to 100% coverage on the EOS R3, EOS R5, and EOS R6 (2). With this, user can enjoy the benefits of AF, such as Animal Detection AF, in more situations than possible on a DSLR camera. The lenses also support continuous shooting of up to 30 fps (electronic shutter) when paired with a high-performance camera like the EOS R3. 

Incorporating Canon’s Proprietary Technology for Superior Image Quality 

Leveraging on the flexibility of the RF mount, the RF800mm f/5.6L IS USM and the RF1200mm f/8L IS USM lens configurations are optimised to achieve the signature outstanding L-lens image quality within a smaller, lighter lens body. This includes the use of fluorite, Super UD (Ultra Low Dispersion), and UD lens elements to combat the chromatic aberration that super telephoto lenses are particularly susceptible to, achieving crisp, clear images all the way to the edges of the frame. 

Enhanced Image Stabilisation for Super Telephoto Shooting 

Both lenses are equipped with the in-lens Optical IS image stabilisation system, which significantly corrects the camera shake that becomes particularly visible at ultra-long focal lengths. On the RF800mm f/5.6L IS USM, the equivalent of up to 4.5 shutter speed stops3 of image stabilisation is achieved (Predecessor: 4 stops); on the RF1200mm f/8L IS USM, the image stabilisation effect is up to 4 shutter speed stops equivalent [3] (Predecessor: no IS). 

Unprecedented Portability Expands Application Usage 

Professional super telephoto lenses are traditionally associated with bulky heft. The unprecedented portability achieved by the RF800mm f/5.6L IS USM and the RF1200mm f/8L IS USM will make them more appealing to new markets and new applications, especially when combined with the ever-increasing capabilities of the EOS R mirrorless camera system. 

Pricing and Availability

The RF800mm f/5.6L IS USM and RF1200mm f/8L IS USM are priced at $26,899 and $31,639 respectively, and will be available from May 2022. 

Product Specifications

RF800mm f/5.6L IS USM and RF1200mm f/8L IS USM

Notes:

(1) With the Extender RF 2x

(2) On RF800mm f/5.6L IS USM with Extender RF1.4x 

(3) In the Yaw//Pitch directions; according to CIPA standards. When using the EOS R/R5/R3  

* Information and pictures of Canon Singapore and GLOO *

The post Canon announced two new L-series RF super telephoto prime lenses appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

For Canon sports and wildlife photographers, the announcement of the RF400mm f/2.8L IS USM and RF600mm f/4L IS USM lenses will be of great interest and excitement to you. Along with upcoming Canon EOS R3 announcement, they would usher in a new era of Canon EOS R and RF sports and wildlife photography setup. As for the RF100mm f/2.8L IS USM lens, this medium telephoto macro lens is going to attract not just wildlife photographers, product shoot photographers will be just as keen too!

The RF100mm f/2.8L IS USM is the world’s first(1), medium telephoto macro lens with a maximum shooting magnification of 1.4x. The RF400mm f/2.8L IS USM and RF600mm f/4L IS USM super telephoto lenses provide professional and advanced amateurs with extra reach that comes with a high level of image quality, reliability and durability.

Edwin Teoh, Head of Marketing, Singapore Operations, Canon Singapore said:“Since we released our first full-frame mirrorless EOSR camera in 2018, we have remained committed to expanding the RF lens ecosystem for our new generation of EOSR series cameras. To date, 20 lenses have been developed for the RF mount. Canon is always looking to push the boundaries of what the native RF lenses can achieve, and have come up the world’s first 1.4x magnification medium telephoto macro lens.”

World’s First Medium Telephoto Macro Lens with 1.4x Magnification

Canon’s RF lenses have the rear element of the lens closer to the image sensor, allowing a new floating method and this enables the RF100mm f/2.8L IS USM to have a maximum shooting magnification of 1.4x, which is 40% higher magnification than the typical macro lens (1x). The high magnification on the RF100mm f/2.8L IS USM expands the possibilities of macro photography.

The RF100mm f/2.8L IS USM features 1x magnification at just 11.2cm from the front of the lens and offers 1.4x magnification at even closer working distance(2) of just 8.6cm. This close focusing ability makes the lens macro ability even more appealing.

Choose Your Bokeh

The RF100mm f/2.8L IS USM is equipped with a spherical aberration (SA) control ring, giving users the ability to toggle between soft and hard depiction of bokeh by turning the SA control ring. Bokeh is the quality of the blur produced by the out-of-focus areas, this would be very interesting and useful feature for photographers to use, giving them more flexibility in their shooting as they can choose which type of bokeh suits their shooting best, regardless of whether they are shooting portraits, flowers or insects.

How the SA control ring works is by employing electronic cams and two Nano USMs, that makes it possible to drive the focus lens group and floating lens group independently.

Smoother focusing, Sharper images

The RF100mm f/2.8L IS USM features an improved optical IS when compared to the 4-stop IS capability of its EF equivalent lens, the EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM. When the RF100mm f/2.8L IS USM is attached to an EOS R system camera that does not have in-body IS, the RF100mm f/2.8L IS USM provides up to 5 stops of IS. The RF100mm f/2.8L IS USM can achieve up to 8 stops of IS through the coordinated IS feature when attached to an EOS R system camera that has in-body IS.

The hybrid IS on the RF100mm f/2.8L IS USM also helps to suppress the angular camera shake (rotational) and shift camera shake (linear) during handheld shooting, enabling photographers to capture sharp images.

The high speed and accurate AF allows quick and agile focusing of moving subjects for still images, while the smoothness of the AF makes the RF100mm f/2.8L IS USM suitable for shooting movies as well. The suppression of subjection magnification fluctuations (focus breathing) in the RF100mm f/2.8L IS USM reduces the changes in the angle of view during the adjustment of focusing distances.

As the RF100mm f/2.8L IS USM is an L lens, it is both dust and water resistant, which is especially useful during outdoor shooting situations. The RF100mm f/2.8L IS USM is also compatible with the Macro Ring Lite MR-14EXII and Macro Twin Lite MT-26EXII accessories (both accessories sold separately) that provides more diverse photography expressions by using light to create or reduce shadows in the images captured.

High Quality Native Support

The RF400mm f/2.8L IS USM and RF600mm f/4L IS USM provide native super telephoto capabilities to the RF system, allowing photographers to reach 400mm and 600mm respectively. Sports and wildlife photographers who are sitting on the fence and thinking whether to switch to mirrorless cameras, the arrival of the long awaited RF400mm f/2.8L IS USM and RF600mm f/4L IS USM super telephoto lenses will address their needs with the native RF mount, while delivering the proven performance of its EF equivalent counterparts.

The RF400mm f/2.8L IS USM and RF600mm f/4L IS USM inherit the strong foundations, capabilities and optics found in all Canon L lenses, delving high image quality while offering the advantages of the RF mount. For example, the minimum focusing distance (3) for the RF400mm f/2.8L IS USM and RF600mm f/4L IS USM is reduced to 2.5m and 4.2m respectively.

Steady and Light

Shooting with super telephoto lenses, camera shake is particular noticeable. In order to address camera shake with super telephoto lenses, IS for both lenses have been enhanced to 5.5 stops (5 stops on the EF equivalent models) that helps to reduce camera shake and blurry images.

The RF400mm f/2.8L IS USM and RF600mm f/4L IS USM both come with three Image Stabilisation (IS) modes which are optimised to match the subject’s movement. This assists photographers in shooting various types of subjects and photography:

• IS Mode 1 – Best suited for stationary subjects
• IS Mode 2 – Used for panning shots
• IS Mode 3 – Suitable for subjects with irregular movements, such as during a basketball game where movements of players can be unpredictable

There is a slight reduction in the overall weight of both lenses (approximately 60 grams) as compared to their EF counterparts, in line with the reduced weights and sizes of the EOS R series full-frame mirrorless cameras.

Seamless Movie Shooting

Both the RF400mm f/2.8L IS USM and RF600mm f/4L IS USM lens provide more control over aperture settings during movie shooting. Shooting movies with telephoto lenses can be challenging in situations where subjects move between different lighting environments and the lenses have problems in capturing the right amount of brightness to get the most optimal video footage.

With the RF400mm f/2.8L IS USM and RF600mm f/4L IS USM, aperture control during movie shooting can be set in 1/8 step increments for both lenses (EF lens is 1/3 step). The brightness of the scene can be changed smoothly even when there is a sudden change in brightness, such as when a subject moves from a dark place to a bright place, resulting in more natural-looking images.

Durable and Flexible

The new RF telephoto lenses have the same reflective heat shield coating as the EF models, providing reliability and durability to meet the needs of professionals and advanced amateurs in the field. The reflective heat shield coating provides excellent heat shielding, scratch resistance and weather resistance quality for most kinds of shooting environment. The front and back element of both lenses also have a fluorine coating to prevent oil and water droplets from sticking to the surface.

The mount, switches, focus ring and other parts of the RF400mm f/2.8L IS USM and RF600mm f/4L IS USM are dust and drip-resistant to prevent any water from entering the camera.

For photographers who need the extra reach, both super telephoto lenses are compatible with the existing RF extenders RF 1.4x and RF 2x. When the RF600mm f/4L IS USM is paired with the Extender RF 2x, you can achieve a staggering 1200mm focal length.

Pricing and Availability 

The Canon RF100mm f/2.8L IS USM, RF400mm f/2.8L IS USM and RF600mm f/4L IS USM lenses will be available in July 2021, pricing is to be advised at a later date.

Product Specifications

Notes:

(1) As an autofocus interchangeable lens for full frame mirrorless camera. Canon survey as of April 13, 2021.  

(2) Working distance refers to the distance between the front end of the lens and the subject

(3) Focusing distance refer to the distance that must be between your subject and the surface of the image sensor (the focal plane) for the lens to focus

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

The post Canon Announced New Medium and Super Telephoto RF Prime L Lenses appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.