Canon Develops APS-C Dual Fisheye for EOS VR System

Virtual reality and other digital worlds are becoming more and more commonplace with each passing day and now the creation of content for these 3D and VR platforms is getting easier with Canon’s new RF-S 3.9mm f/3.5 STM Dual Fisheye Lens for the EOS R7. This lens joins the RF 5.2mm as part of Canon’s EOS VR System and provides a more affordable and accessible option for individuals looking to start their VR creation journey.

Looking at the new RF-S dual fisheye, you’ll find a lens that appears very similar to the existing full-frame option. However, there are some key differences that will make the RF-S option a better pick for many creators. One such difference is a more modest 144° field of view, which should make the lens easier to use with conventional supports, such as a tripod, or handheld—without having to worry about  getting equipment or your feet in the frame. Compare the RF-S’s field of view to something like the RF 5.2mm—which has a massive 190° field of view that requires additional equipment to get just right—and the benefit is obvious.

According to Canon, the RF-S 3.9mm will only support the EOS R7 at launch. Compared to the full-frame system, that’s a much more affordable option.

Even with this new camera and lens combination, Canon’s EOS VR System will retain the same workflow, allowing users to capture a single file to create VR and 3D scenes. Users will also be able to make use of the EOS VR Utility and EOS VR Plug-in for Adobe Premiere Pro to edit and view their imagery. The results are viewable via most current VR systems, including the Meta Quest.

In addition to the RF-S 3.9mm, Apple and Canon teamed up at WWDC 2024 to announce another VR lens is on the way: the RF-S 7.8mm f/4 STM Dual. This lens is optimized for capturing Spatial Video for the Apple Vision Pro. This is the first dedicated lens for mirrorless cameras that is designed for Apple's Spatial Video.

Are you interested in beginning your 3D/VR image creation journey with the EOS VR System? Let us know down below!