Canon, a titan in the photography and videography sphere, has launched its latest innovation for APS-C cameras, the RF-S 3.9mm f/3.5 STM Dual Fisheye Lens. This lens, perfectly designed to enhance VR content, is currently supported by the EOS-R7 and is here to make VR content production seamless.
Overcoming VR’s Big Challenge
The production of VR content can be quite a complex task. High-resolution, wide-angled coverage, and most challenging, accurate synchronization between parallel lenses and capture devices, are all key components to VR motion capture. The conventional method involves utilizing two GoPros and pressing their record buttons concurrently. However, professional-grade production mandates precisely synchronized recording to avoid any inconsistencies.
Presenting Canon’s Solution
Canon’s solution to these numerous challenges revolves around the use of a single sensor. This is where the EOS-R5, capable of capturing 8K, comes into the picture. The camera, when equipped with an RF 5.2mm f/2.8 Dual Fisheye lens, can project two individual image circles onto its large, high-res sensor. This mechanism enables Canon to circumvent most of the headaches associated with VR content production, creating an accessible and user-friendly VR platform.
While this platform is more cost-effective compared to some competitors, the lens and camera collectively still come with a hefty price tag of $2000 and $3000 respectively.
An In-depth Look at the RF-S 3.9mm f/3.5 STM
Priced at just $1,099, the RF-S 3.9mm is essentially a scaled-down version of its full-frame counterpart, but duct with some specific features. While its field of view is slightly narrower at 144° and its aperture stands at f/3.5, it holds a few unique attributes.
The major plus is its STM motor, capable of accomplishing single-shot autofocus and easy focus adjustment between the right and left via the focus ring. An added bonus lies in the inclusion of a rear gelatin filter holder.
Compatibility with EOS-R7
Adding to its utility, the RF-S 3.9mm f/3.5 STM is compatible exclusively with the Canon EOS-R7. This can be attributed to the exceptional resolution provided by the EOS-R7. With an impressive 32.5 megapixels crammed onto its APS-C sensor, it stands as Canon’s highest resolution APS-C camera. Operating on a sensor oversampled from a complete 7K resolution, the EOS-R7 is limited to outputting only 4K footage. However, an upgrade in EOS-R7’s firmware is underway that will accommodate VR shooting with the lens.
A Step into the Future of VR Content
It’s no secret that Canon aims to expand VR capture’s frontier as stated in its 2024 strategy statement. The RF-S 3.9mm f/3.5 STM Dual Fisheye lens is a commendable contribution to that cause. Due to ship this month, June, in 2024, this lens is set to make spatial video shooting more accessible for content creators. Moreover, compatibility with Apple’s Vision Pro was recently announced, another stride towards making VR content creation easier.
Price and availability
The new introduction of the RF-S 3.9mm f/3.5 STM Dual Fisheye lens serves this purpose. Priced at only $1,099, it stands as one of the most cost-effective VR equipment available. The lens is all set to be dispatched this month, June 2024
