Canon announces EOS R3 in development, plus new RF lenses

Canon has announced it is developing the EOS R3, a new mirrorless, full-frame camera to join the EOS R5 and R6. The design is very much in-line with Canon's high-end EOS-1D DSLR. In addition, they company has unveiled three new RF lenses.

Canon EOS R3

Canon states that the new EOS R3 mirrorless camera will "land between" the EOS R5 and the high-end EOS-1D X MK III DSLR. Many believe it will be the mirrorless version of the 1D X.

It features a brand new full-frame, back-illuminated stacked 35mm CMOS sensor, the first of its kind. Combined with the DIGIC X image processor, the Canon EOS R3 will be more light sensitive, and rolling shutter won't be too much of a problem. There isn't information on the resolution. 

The electronic shutter will allow for a jaw-dropping 30 fps, with full AF (and all auto exposure modes, per Canon), which is perfect for shooting sports, news, and important live events, such as weddings and concerts.

Autofocus is going next-gen, with the Dual Pixel CMOS AF, and includes a state-of-the-art Eye Control Autofocus Function, as seen in the R5 and R6 (and dates back to cameras from the early 90s). You'll be able to set and even move the AF point with your eye, all through the electronic viewfinder. Canon says this is only for photography mode. It will identify and track moving subjects.

The R3 has a rugged, weather-resistant design and an integrated vertical grip. Again, this is a camera clearly aimed at professionals shooting all manner of events where they need speed and reliability, no matter the conditions outside.

Canon hasn't released anymore details or information regarding the EOS R3, including a release date, price, or even video capabilities. If it does feature video, it's probably safe to assume it'll film in 8K RAW, much like the EOS R5, and likely 10-bit 4K like the R6. Perhaps the overheating issues that plague both cameras will be a thing of the past. But remember, this is a camera made primarily for stills.

You can visit the page Canon set up announcing the EOS R3. 

Three New Canon RF Lenses

Canon also announce three new RF lenses for their R line of mirrorless cameras, including the RF 400mm F/2.8 L IS USM (priced at $11,999 USD), the RF 600mm F/4 L IS USM ($12,999 USD), and the more affordable RF 100mm F/2.8 L IS USM Macro ($1,399 USD).

The RF 400mm F/2.8 L IS USM is a fast telephoto prime lens, very similar to the EF version. And it should be noted that Canon is discontinuing many of its EF line of lenses, as they introduce more RF lenses.

The RF 400mm F/2.8 L IS USM.

The RF 600mm F/4 L IS USM is also similar to the EF equivalent, and both telephoto lenses feature enhanced optical IS, with 5.5 stops of compensation. Plus, when shooting video, they have 1/8th stop aperture control. Paired up with upcoming mirrorless cameras, like the EOS R3, the autofocus functions will be even faster.

The RF 600mm F/4 L IS USM.

And finally, the RF 100mm F/2.8 L IS USM Macro can shoot in 1:1 macro or a 1.4:1 (1.37x) macro, with a minimum focus of 4.4" (11.2 cm) at 1x, and 3.38" (8.6 cm) at 1.4x. The new Spherical Aberration Control Ring allows shooters to change how the bokeh appears. You'll be able to control the focus even more when shooting subjects in macro.

The RF 100mm F/2.8 L IS USM Macro.

You can learn more about the RF 400mm lens here, the RF 600mm lens here, and the RF 100mm macro lens here.