Canon is once again delighting photography and videography enthusiasts with the launch of its latest lens‚ the Canon RF-S 3.9mm F3.5 STM Dual Fisheye. This stereoscopic lens is specifically designed for EOS R mirrorless cameras with APS-C sensors and is ready to facilitate VR (Virtual Reality) content production.
The RF-S 3.9mm F3.5 STM Dual Fisheye lens is the second stereoscopic lens to join the EOS System VR ecosystem. Previously‚ in 2021‚ Canon introduced the RF 5.2mm F/2.8L Dual Fisheye for full-frame sensor EOS R mirrorless cameras. With the RF-S 3.9mm F3.5 STM Dual Fisheye‚ Canon offers a more affordable alternative for users with APS-C sensors.
This lens features two wide-angle optical modules capable of capturing images with coverage up to 144 degrees. The placement of the two lens modules is approximately 60 mm apart‚ close to the human eye distance‚ resulting in more natural and realistic stereoscopic effects.
The optical design of the RF-S 3.9mm F3.5 STM Dual Fisheye consists of 11 elements in 11 groups‚ including two UD lens elements that ensure sharp image quality with minimal distortion. Interestingly‚ for the first time‚ Canon has added an Air Sphere Coating (ASC) to this lens. The ASC coating‚ typically found only on Canon’s premium L-Series lenses‚ reduces ghosting and flare‚ enhancing image quality‚ especially in challenging lighting conditions.
This lens is equipped with an STM autofocus system that offers fast and quiet performance‚ similar to other RF lenses. However‚ it is important to note that this autofocus system only works in photo mode‚ so users will need to manually focus when recording video.
The RF-S 3.9mm F3.5 STM Dual Fisheye lens is only compatible with the EOS R7 mirrorless camera with firmware version 1.5.0+ also becomes a key point. This means users must ensure their camera firmware is updated to use this lens optimally.
The Canon RF-S 3.9mm F3.5 STM Dual Fisheye will be sold for US$1099. With its competitive price‚ this lens becomes an attractive choice for photography and videography enthusiasts looking to explore the VR world. The lens is planned to be available on the market starting in June 2024.
With the features and specifications offered‚ the RF-S 3.9mm F3.5 STM Dual Fisheye lens is expected to meet the needs of VR content creators‚ whether for professional or hobby purposes. Here are some advantages and potential uses of this lens:
Easier VR Content Production: With two optical modules capable of capturing wide-angle images‚ users can easily create high-quality VR content.
High Image Quality: The support of UD lens elements and Air Sphere Coating ensures images remain sharp and free of distortion‚ even in challenging lighting conditions.
Realistic Stereoscopic Effect: The distance between the two lens modules‚ close to the human eye distance‚ produces a more natural and impressive stereoscopic effect.
Fast and Quiet Autofocus: The STM autofocus system ensures fast and quiet performance in photo mode‚ making it suitable for various shooting situations.
Affordable Price: Compared to other stereoscopic lenses‚ the RF-S 3.9mm F3.5 STM Dual Fisheye offers a more affordable price without sacrificing quality.
With its various superior features and competitive price‚ the Canon RF-S 3.9mm F3.5 STM Dual Fisheye is an extremely attractive choice for users of APS-C sensor EOS R mirrorless cameras. This lens not only facilitates VR content production but also opens opportunities for creators to explore their creativity in the world of stereoscopic photography and videography.
