Canon announces R6 Mark II, RF 135mm F1.8L IS USM and SPEEDLITE EL-5
Canon today announces the EOS R6 Mark II, its fastest advanced full-frame mirrorless camera to date, expanding the pioneering EOS R System – offering 40fps, stunning low-light AF and 6K RAW / 4K UHD movies, all built on the RF Mount. As the newest model in the range for hybrid creators, the EOS R6 Mark II utilises the powerful foundations of the RF Mount and redefines standards set by the EOS R6. For both stills and movie, it raises the bar with its unique blend of class-leading performance, breath-taking speed, stability and professional filmmaking features.
The fastest EOS R System camera yet
Unrivalled sharpness
Using the same DIGIC X processor technology – which was at the core of the EOS R5, EOS R6 and coveted EOS-1D X Mark III – alongside the camera’s new 24.2 megapixel CMOS sensor, the EOS R6 Mark II supports renowned next generation Dual Pixel CMOS AF II pushing speed and reliability to unmatched levels.
The EOS R6 Mark II can track subjects keeping them sharp as they move through a scene. Using improved deep-learning artificial intelligence, it recognises people, vehicles1- which now includes aircraft and trains – and animals which has been updated to recognise horses/ zebras2. The type of subject to be detected can be chosen in the menu, or using the new Auto option depending on the range of scenarios the photographer is shooting in. With advance eye tracking, users can specify which eye (left or right) should be given focus priority, and when the eyes can’t be detected, the EOS R6 Mark II focuses on the face in shot instead. Even if a person turns away for a moment, their head continues to be tracked, and if the head isn’t visible the camera will go on to track the body.
The EOS R6 Mark II boasts the world’s most effective IS performance, with its up to 8-stop3Image Stabilizer. Using the combined IS, optical and in-body – it can shoot long exposures, handheld with extreme clarity and sharpness. Photographers can also capture the ambience, whatever the conditions – focusing shake-free in light levels as low as -6.5EV4, and the ability to shoot up to ISO 102,400.
Next generation speed for the EOS R System
Setting new speed records, the EOS R6 Mark II is Canon’s fastest EOS to date5. It can shoot continuously at up to 40fps6- with 20fps and 5fps options with electronic shutter – and up to 12fps mechanically, capturing fleeting moments that are barely perceptible to the human eye. Compared to the EOS R6, the new sensor reduces rolling shutter, allowing the camera’s electronic shutter to be used to freeze fast-moving objects.
Additionally, the EOS R6 Mark II keeps pace with photographers’ needs, recording action before shooting starts, with ½ a second pre-shooting in RAW Burst mode – a great advantage when shooting unpredictable subjects, from tennis players to toddlers. The RAW Burst mode shoots continuously at 30fps for up to 191 frames, recording every image in a single CR3 file; all with AF tracking. Individual images can be extracted from this roll using Canon’s Digital Photo Professional software, or in camera, and saved as individual JPEG, HEIF or RAW files.
Meeting demand with evolved video capabilities
Using the full width of the sensor, the EOS R6 Mark II is the only camera in its class7that can shoot 4K 60p UHD, with simultaneous Dual Pixel CMOS AF II focusing. All 4k footage is created by oversampling the sensor’s 6K output, resulting in superb image quality. For independent filmmakers wanting even higher performance, the EOS R6 Mark II outputs 6K RAW via its HDMI output, which can be recorded on an Atomos Ninja V+ recorder in ProRes RAW. This provides more detail, as well as the ability to adjust parameters such as white balance in post-production.
Creators can activate movie pre-recording mode of 3 or 5 seconds – when on, video is continuously streamed through the camera in standby enabling the capture of action even before you press record. Ideal for unmissable moments, or unpredictable scenes.
The EOS R6 Mark II features an improved circuit design allowing longer recording times, over 40 minutes of oversampled 4K 60p recording or up to 6 hours at 4k 30p8, - with the previous 29.59 maximum recording time removed - depending on ambient temperature, memory card space and battery life.
Enabling content creators and filmmakers to meet the increasing demand to produce both stunning still and moving image, the innovative EOS R6 Mark II can output incredible slow-motion footage with AF support using Full HD at up to 179.82fps. During movie shooting, False colour can be used as a guide to exposure adjustment, particularly useful in conditions that typically result in overexposed highlights. With HDR support via PQ, as well as Canon’s popular Canon Log 3, creators can capture breath-taking, true-to-life video and realise greater expressive possibilities – immersing the viewer in the content. When used with supported lenses9, the EOS R6 Mark II also uses focus-breathing correction to compensate for the effects of focus breathing, providing a cinematic effect.
Intelligent connection for content delivery
With updated Bluetooth v.5 and Wi-Fi (5GHz), the EOS R6 Mark II can be easily connected to a smartphone and networks allowing high-speed file sharing and FTP/FTPS/SFTP transfer – making it easy to edit and share, even when on the move. The camera can also be remotely controlled using the Camera Connect and EOS Utility apps, tethered to a PC, Mac or smartphone via Wi-Fi or high-speed USB-C. For semi-professional photographers and content creators, content delivery is just as important as image and video capture – the EOS R6 Mark II supports automatic transfer of image files from the device to the image.canon cloud platform to easily share and print images.
The EOS R6 Mark II can be used as a webcam on PC and Mac computers running video-call apps such as Skype, Zoom and Teams, without having to install additional software. This plug-and-play capability is powered by industry-standard USB Video Class (UVC) and USB Audio Class (UAC) drivers that are built into Windows and MacOS operating systems. The camera provides improved image quality compared with standard computer webcams, perfect for making a great impression when on video-calls online.
An extension of the creators’ creativity
Allowing seamless navigation with trusted ergonomics, existing EOS and EOS R System series users will be comfortable handling the EOS R6 Mark II. Featuring a multi-function shoe with a next-generation interface, the EOS R6 Mark II enables a new series of accessories to be used including the newly launched SPEEDLITE EL-5. These accessories can be used without the need for cables, and in some cases batteries.
Its body offers the durability expected from Canon, withstanding adverse weather conditions. The high-resolution 3.69M dot EVF offers a crystal clear view when taking photos or video, as it refreshes at 120fps – alongside this, EOS R6 Mark II has inherited the Optical View Finder view assist feature from the EOS R3, providing a natural-looking display retaining detail in shadows and highlights, with good visibility in dark areas and gradation. The EOS R6 Mark II is also compatible with the same LP-E6 batteries and battery grip as the EOS R6, but with the benefit of battery life being increased by approx. 50% using the LCD screen.
Canon Camera Connect App
Alongside the EOS R6 Mark II, Canon is announcing an update to its Camera Connect App which delivers a fresh new look and feel, as well as enhanced connectivity and a simple user experience. The v.3 update makes the app a central portal, enabling users to easily access other Canon software and services, such as the print app or image.canon cloud service. From the app, Canon users can connect their camera to a smartphone or tablet to act as a remote control, or fine tune images, download or share them while on the move and even download firmware updates for their camera10.
Also launching today is the RF 135mm F1.8L IS USM, a telephoto prime lens ideal for shooting portraits in low-light and the SPEEDLITE EL-5, a high-performance Speedlite for capturing weddings and events.
Further details about EOS R6 Mark II are available here: https://www.canon-europe.com/cameras/eos-r6-mark-ii/
EOS R6 Mark II key features:
• Dual Pixel CMOS AF II
• 40fps electronic shutter and 12fps mechanical shutter
• 30 fps pre-shooting RAW burst mode
• 8 stops In Body IS
• 24.2 megapixel sensor
- Vehicles include cars, motorbikes, trains and aircraft.
- Animals include dogs, cats, birds and horses.
- Yaw/Pitch direction, based on the CIPA standard, 8.0 stops with RF 24-105mm F4 L IS USM at a focal distance of 105mm.
- With an f/1.2 lens, centre AF point, and One-Shot AF, at 23°C / 73°F and ISO 100. This excludes RF lenses with a Defocus Smoothing (DS) coating.
- Correct as of 2nd November 2022.
- Continuous shooting speed may be slower depending on subject/shooting conditions or the camera setup or the lens used, etc. Refer to Advanced User Guide for details. For information on lenses that support the maximum continuous shooting speed with servo AF, refer to Supplemental Information of EOS R6 Mark II on the website “cam.start.canon”. Depending on the nature of subject or shooting conditions, rolling shutter image distortion may occur.
- As per Canon research 1st November 2022.
- Battery and memory card allowing.
- Lenses currently supported, after firmware updates, are:
- RF 14-35mm F4 L IS USM
- RF 15-35mm F2.8 L IS USM
- RF 24-70mm F2.8 L IS USM
- RF 24-105mm F4 L IS USM
- RF 70-200mm F2.8 L IS USM
- RF 70-200mm F4 L IS USM
- The RF24mm F1.8 Macro IS STM supports this feature from the beginning and does not require a firmware update. - This feature is only possible with selected cameras. Please visit the Camera Connect App page for more information.
Canon Europe today announces the launch of the RF 135mm F1.8L IS USM, a telephoto prime lens ideal for shooting portraits in low-light and the SPEEDLITE EL-5, a high-performance Speedlite for capturing weddings and events. A fast, bright f/1.8 aperture and built-in optical image stabilizer enable the RF 135mm F1.8L IS USM to capture crisp images with a soft background, while the longer focal length creates flattering portraits. Offering the same intuitive design as the EL-1 and advanced performance at a competitive price, the SPEEDLITE EL-5 is the perfect accessory for professional photographers. Canon is also announcing a Neural Network Image Processing tool will be added to its DPP software, enabling photographers to improve the quality of the images they capture.
Fast and bright, the RF 135mm F1.8L IS USM and SPEEDLITE EL-5 offer portrait and event photographers more creative freedom
Capture stand-out portraits with the RF 135mm F1.8L IS USM
The successor of the popular Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM, the RF 135mm F1.8L IS USM achieves striking portraits thanks to the combination of a fast f/1.8, 9-blade aperture and 135mm focal length that create a beautiful bokeh effect, while compressing subject features for more flattering shots. This also creates a more comfortable and relaxed shooting environment thanks to the additional distance between subject and photographer, for natural looking photos whether capturing tight headshots or full body shots. The RF 135mm F1.8L IS USM is also perfect for close shooting, with a focusing distance of 0.7m that gives a 0.26x magnification. RF 135mm F1.8L IS USM also employs an Optical Image Stabiliser for up to 5.5 stops of stabilization, which increases to 8 stops with co-ordinated stabilization1, which is ideal when shooting in low light or hand-held.
As with Canon’s entire RF lens range, the RF 135mm F1.8L IS USM delivers exceptional image quality across the entire frame. The advanced optical design features three UD elements to ensure high resolution, accurate colour reproduction and reduce chromatic aberrations. With ASC and Super Spectra Coating, the RF 135mm F1.8L IS USM also benefits from minimal ghosting or flare, while the fluorine coating helps to keep the lens free from dirt for sharp images every time.
The RF 135mm F1.8L IS USM offers effortless operation and handling, to support photographers in high-pressure shooting scenarios such as weddings or live sporting events. A Nano USM motor enables fast and quiet AF operation, which, coupled with Canon’s Eye AF feature2 , ensures the RF 135mm F1.8L IS USM accurately focuses on the subject’s eye so that the photographer can concentrate on the composition - useful when shooting with a shallow depth-of-field. The RF 135mm F1.8L IS USM is Canon’s first ever lens, other than super-telephoto lenses, to feature two Lens Function buttons, which can be used for AF-stop function or other features. A Control Ring can also be customised to change various settings from the lens such as shutter speed, aperture or ISO. Dust and water-resistant seals around the lens mount ensure reliability in any shooting conditions.
SPEEDLITE EL-5: Powerful, yet easy-to-use Speedlite
Packed full of professional features, the SPEEDLITE EL-5 is a high-performance, reliable Speedlite that is a must have for the kit bag of any event photographer. Featuring a Guide Number of 603 and a blisteringly fast flash recycle time of 0.1-1.2 seconds4 , it’s never been easier to illuminate action-packed events such parties or weddings. Likewise, the rechargeable Li-ion Battery Pack LP-EL enables a long continuous flash count at up to 85 flashes at full power, and up to 350 flashes in a single charge, at full power5. For more subtle lighting requirements, the extended manual power setting enables users to set the flash to 1/1024th power6.
Canon's first Speedlite to feature a Multi-Function foot that is compatible with the latest EOS R series cameras7, the SPEEDLITE EL-5 uses gold plated contacts to ensure a reliable connection with the camera and improved communication. For reliable performance even when shooting with flash for long periods of time, the SPEEDLITE EL-5 is designed with an efficient passive cooling system that allows heat to dissipate more quickly. When shooting in adverse weather conditions, the dust and water resistance seals give photographers confidence in their kit.
Built for professional workflows, the SPEEDLITE EL-5 offers a number of features such as wireless radio control for up to 15 additional Speedlites and a Camera Link function that allows photographers to trigger external cameras connected to these Speedlites. The Dual White LED light acts as modelling light or AF assist lamp, to support focusing in low light situations. With the custom flash mode (C.Flash), users can register flash settings (C1, C2, C3) on the Speedlite and can also ‘link’ these to the camera’s custom modes8 , which act as a pre-set to speed up workflows in more complex environments. With the same intuitive design and menu system as the EL-1, the SPEEDLITE EL-5 offers a familiar joystick and button layout along with a new (Flash) Menu Direct button for easy access to the Speedlite settings menu on the camera.
DPP Cloud Upgrade
Canon has also bolstered its Digital Photo Professional software for advanced photographers, with a new subscription-based Neural Network Image Processing tool that enhances image quality through the power of cloud computing and Canon’s advanced AI technology. Photographers are able to reduce noise, while restoring detail and sharpness, previously not possible at such a high ISO, improve colour accuracy and benefit from lens optimisation.
Also launching today is EOS R6 Mark II, a full-frame mirrorless camera that delivers innovative ways for hybrid shooters to master their creativity – without compromise and no matter what the subject. Capable of continuous shooting at 40fps and featuring Canon’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF to recognize and track more subjects at greater speed, EOS R6 Mark II sets new speed records. A true hybrid, it can also capture superb oversampled 4K 60p video or 6K RAW.
For more information about the RF 135mm F1.8L IS USM please visit: https://www.canon-europe.com/lenses/rf-135mm-1-8-l-is-usm-lens/
Further details about the SPEEDLITE EL-5 are available here: https://www.canon-europe.com/cameras/speedlite-flash-el-5/
RF 135mm F1.8L IS USM key features:
• Fast f/1.8, 9-blade circular aperture
• 135mm focal length
• 5.5 stops of stabilization (8 stops with IBIS)
• Advanced optical design featuring three UD elements, ASC and Super Spectra Coating
• Nano USM motor for fast and quiet AF
SPEEDLITE EL-5 key features:
• Guide Number of 60, with integrated modelling light
• Fast flash recycle time of 0.1-1.2 seconds4
• Rechargeable Li-ion Battery Pack LP-EL
• Canon's first Speedlite to feature a Multi-Function foot
• Wireless radio control for up to 15 additional Speedlites