Canon has unveiled its new RF5.2mm F2.8 L Dual Fisheye lens for creating 3D VR images and video content.
The new Dual Fisheye lens brings stereoscopic 3D virtual reality (VR) capture to the EOS R5 camera as part of the EOS VR System, which also includes a future firmware update for the EOS R5 camera to support the use of this lens with new VR shooting specific functions, as well as new upcoming Canon EOS VR software solutions for conversion and processing.
The new Dual Fisheye lens is designed to work only with Canon’s EOS R5 camera for its 8K video capability.
The two lenses are approximately 60mm apart and provide comfortable parallax for VR and AR.
“At Canon, we innovate so creators can push artistic boundaries, and this commitment to innovation is what led us to introduce the new RF5.2mm F2.8 L Dual Fisheye lens. As Canon’s first entry into the world of virtual reality image capture, the EOS VR System represents an important milestone in our company’s rich history as a lens manufacturer and welcomes a bright future for VR content creation,” said Tatsuro “Tony” Kano, executive vice president and general manager of Canon U.S.A.’s Imaging Technologies & Communications Group. “This new RF lens produces a stunning 8K virtual reality image and sets itself apart through its simplified workflow. Our goal is to make immersive storytelling more accessible for all.”
With a 190 degree field of view captured from two separate optical systems they deliver outstanding results for 180° VR viewing platforms.
Shoot any time of the day
With subwavelength coating technology offering impressive flare control in backlit conditions, VR creators can have the freedom to shoot regardless of the time of day or position of the sun. The dual fisheye design provides versatile exposure control with a maximum aperture of a bright f/2.8 to a deep depth of field of f/16 with electronically-controlled apertures allowing the dual fisheye lens to operate just like other RF mount lenses.
Dust and water-resistant
Between the dust and water-resistant sealing and fluorine coating of the lens and the robust build of the EOS R5 camera, this System delivers peace of mind even in challenging weather conditions. Canon’s free Camera Connect app and Canon’s EOS Utility program both will be updated in the future to offer remote-control live view functionality for monitoring purposes while on the go.
Recording left and right fisheye images to a single full-frame
The EOS VR System’s convenient workflow is a standout feature. Accomplished by recording left and right fisheye images to a single full-frame image sensor, this design helps to solve common VR challenges of stitching and synching, by outputting one single image file.
Canon is currently developing two paid subscription-based software solutions as available options for completing the post-production process. Canon’s EOS VR Utility will offer the ability to convert clips from dual fisheye images to equirectangular and make quick edits, as well as select the resolution and file format before export.
With the EOS VR Plug-In for Adobe® Premiere® Pro, creators will be able to automatically convert the footage to equirectangular, and cut, color, and add a new dimensions to stories with Adobe Creative Cloud® apps, including Premiere Pro.
Additional features of Canon’s first interchangeable, stereoscopic 3D 180° VR 180 lens include:
- Close-focusing distance of 7.87-inches/0.2m is possible – max magnification is 0.03x.
- Aperture range of f/2.8 to f/16 with a 7-blade aperture and simultaneous electromagnetic diaphragm for both left and right lenses.
- Built-in Gelatin Filter Holder – allows ND gel filters to be used in bright environments if a bright aperture is desired.
- Fluorine Coating on the front lens elements, with a dust and water-resistant design.
- Extremely compact size – allowing it to be used in different types of productions.
The Canon RF5.2mm F2.8 L Dual Fisheye lens is scheduled to be available in late December 2021 for an estimated retail price of $1,999.00 – approximately R30 000 in South African Rands.
The Canon EOS R5 is currently selling for anything +R70 000 in South Africa.
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