Canon EOS R5: 8K video, IBIS, 20 fps and matching new lenses
Canon has announced the EOS R5 mirrorless camera. It will be capable of 8K video, has a built-in image stabiliser and fast continuous shooting. Seven new lenses for the R system are also coming onto the market.
The Japanese company was criticised for the video function on the EOS R, Canon's first camera in the mirrorless system. This is because 4K is possible, but only with crop - i.e. not with the full angle of view. The Canon EOS R5 is likely to be the leader when it comes to video, as it will be able to record 8K videos (7680×4320 pixels) according to the manufacturer.
8K is 33 megapixels. Photos will have an even higher resolution, as they are not in 16:9 format, but 3:2. You can expect around 40 megapixels. The sensor is said to be a new development, as is the image processor.
The Canon EOS R5 is expected to shoot 20 frames per second with a silent electronic shutter and 12 frames per second with a mechanical shutter. This would surpass Sony's current top model, the A9 II (20 fps electronic and 10 fps mechanical).
In addition, the new camera will offer a built-in image stabiliser (IBIS). This will work together with the lens stabilisers to enable hand-held shots even in very low light.
Seven new lenses and two converters
Canon plans to launch seven new lenses for the R system this year. These include a telephoto lens with a focal length of 100 to 500 mm. This should be interesting in combination with the IBIS of the EOS R5 - and with the two teleconverters that have also been announced. These extend the focal length by a factor of 1.4 and 2 respectively.
The next lens in the system will be the RF 24-105mm F4-7.1 IS STM. It will be launched at the end of April and is expected to cost around 500 francs. As a lightweight (395 grams) and compact zoom, it makes particular sense in combination with the Canon EOS RP: both together weigh just 880 grams.
When the EOS R5 will be launched on the market is not yet known. Canon plans to show it at two international trade fairs at the end of February, but that doesn't mean much as it is unlikely to be a market-ready device. <p
My interest in IT and writing landed me in tech journalism early on (2000). I want to know how we can use technology without being used. Outside of the office, I’m a keen musician who makes up for lacking talent with excessive enthusiasm.