A little something’s new from Canon, announced today: one high-end hybrid lens, and one basic-yet-powerful Speedlite flash.
RF35mm f/1.4 L VCM lens
The highly anticipated RF35mm f/1.4 L VCM is is the first “hybrid” prime lens in the EOS R lineup, joining the RF24–105mm f/2.8 in offering features tailored for both still imaging and videography in equal abundance. The slightly wide angle field of view is optimal for street photography and documentary exploration. As an L Series lens, quality can naturally be expected to be high, with minimal aberrations, flaring, or distortion. Two UD lenses and two aspheric lenses as well as Canon’s own anti-ghosting Air Sphere Coating work to that effect.
A whole new focusing motor is debuting here, called the Voice Coil Motor. Users should expect even faster speed and quieter performance than that found in previous EOS R lenses. Focus breathing has also been all but eliminated. Your video’s audio track will be safe, and the scene will be as still as you’d like during your expertly executed focus pulls!
Filters can be screwed onto the front ring or dropped into a bundled cut gel rear filter holder.
Customizable controls (one ring and one button) allow for versatile field performance. Plus, the control offered by the RF35mm’s dedicated manual (non-detented) iris ring is an irreplaceable feature for creative video makers.
Sample images
Naturally, the lens is dust- and water-resistant and sports a fluorine coating on the front element to mitigate smudging.
EL-10 Speedlite flash
The Speedlite EL-10 flash is an update to the well-loved Speedlite 430EX III RT. It’s an affordable way to step up into serious flash control and dramatically expand what you can do with your lighting. You can trigger the EL-10 on-camera or use the ST-E3-RT Speedlite Transmitter to set it off remotely. (A convenient stand—feet for the flash, if you will—is included! Control up to 15 additional flashes, or simply use the unit itself to put the light where you need it. Bounce in two axes, using a head that can swivel up to 90º up, 150º to the left, and 180º to the right.
Canon has worked to make the UI as intuitive as possible, but let’s be honest: flash menus are not fun when you’re trying to nail the shot. Thanks to the multi-function hot shoe connection, you can actually control the flash via an app! Custom flash modes (of which three are available) also make it much easier to get your flash set the way you want it on the fly than it would be just mucking about with the menu. Take care of that part in the comfort of your home, then hit the photo quest with simple switching.
With a guide number of 131.2 feet, the EL-10 offers almost as much power as more expensive brethren like the EL-5, includes a built-in diffuser panel, and runs on easily-available AA batteries.