Canon has introduced the RF-S3.9mm f/3.5 STM Dual Fisheye, a new lens aimed at democratizing virtual reality (VR) content creation. This compact, lightweight, and autofocus-capable lens is designed for APS-C cameras and currently supports the EOS R7. Following the footsteps of the RF5.2mm f/2.8L Dual Fisheye, this new offering simplifies the workflow for high-resolution 3D VR photos and videos, making VR content creation more accessible.
David Yeo, Senior Marketing Manager of Consumer Business, Singapore Operations, Canon Singapore, highlighted the intent behind the new lens: “Recognising price and complexity as potential barriers to VR content production, the innovative RF-S3.9mm f/3.5 STM Dual Fisheye is geared as an accessible and convenient solution for aspiring content creators. With this lens, we believe it will foster a new era of creativity and exploration.”
The RF-S3.9mm f/3.5 STM Dual Fisheye features two fisheye lenses positioned to capture images with parallax simultaneously on a single image sensor, producing a 144° angle of view. This data can then be converted into 180° 3D VR movies using EOS VR Utility software or the EOS VR Plug-in for Adobe Premiere Pro, eliminating the need for complex setups and synchronisation.
Canon’s first dual fisheye lens with autofocusing capability, the RF-S3.9mm f/3.5 STM Dual Fisheye, offers swift and precise AF thanks to a dual-lens STM mechanism. Users can also make fine adjustments with an electronic focusing/control ring and a focus difference adjustment mode switch. The lens also supports AF frame control via EOS Utility or Camera Connect apps, enhancing ease of operation from challenging angles.
The RF-S3.9mm f/3.5 STM Dual Fisheye is the first non-L lens to feature anti-reflective ASC (Air Sphere Coating), ensuring minimal ghosting and flaring even in strong backlight conditions. When used with the EOS R7, it maintains high pixel density, delivering high-definition images from corner to corner during 4K recording.
Weighing approximately 290g (excluding the rear filter holder), the RF-S3.9mm f/3.5 STM Dual Fisheye is slightly lighter than its predecessor, enhancing portability. It comes with a rear filter holder compatible with commercially available gelatin filters and 30.5mm screw-in filters.
The RF-S3.9mm f/3.5 STM Dual Fisheye will be available at Canon authorized dealers at a recommended retail price of $1789 from the end of June.
