Canon is expanding its RF lens lineup with three new hybrid lenses—the RF 24mm f/1.4 L VCM, RF 50mm f/1.4 L VCM, and RF 70-200mm f/2.8 L IS USM Z—designed for both photo and video users. Canon has introduced the long-awaited RF-S 7.8mm f/4 STM Dual lens for 3D imaging, tailored for EOS R7 users to capture VR-ready spatial video content.
Canon Hybrid Lenses - Flexibility for Filmmakers and Photographers
Canon's hybrid lens series, introduced to meet the demands of high-end multimedia creators, offers versatile options for those who work across both videography and photography. These lenses—optimized for both fields—are fast, finely tuned, and minimize focus breathing, with Canon's signature L-series durability and performance. Launched with the RF 35mm f/1.4 L VCM in June 2024, the series now expands to include the RF 24mm f/1.4, RF 50mm f/1.4, and RF 70-200mm f/2.8 lenses, providing broader coverage and options for multimedia creators.
The RF 24mm and RF 50mm f/1.4 L VCM lenses join the 35mm f/1.4, broadening focal length choices for photographers and videographers alike. These primes maintain a fast f/1.4 aperture, ideal for low-light conditions and depth of field control, essential for crafting mood and focus in video work. The 24mm wide-angle is well-suited for capturing establishing shots, landscapes, and interiors, while the 50mm offers a versatile, “normal” perspective, perfect for portraits and selective views.
Both lenses feature a manual iris ring, a VCM (Voice Coil Motor) linear AF system, and a Nano USM AF system that manages floating focus elements for consistent sharpness. Close-focus distances are 9.4” for the 24mm and 15.7” for the 50mm, offering 0.17x and 0.15x magnification, respectively. With the VCM rear focusing system, these lenses deliver nearly silent, smooth focusing—a significant asset for videographers.
Canon has also controlled focus breathing to within 2.5% across the focus range, further reducible to 1% with electronic correction, making these lenses a reliable choice for seamless transitions in video capture. This attention to detail in optical design and functionality reflects Canon’s commitment to delivering quality tools for hybrid shooters.
The lenses offer L-series durability and weather resistance, with 67mm filter threads and a programmable function button. The 24mm also includes a rear filter holder to reduce vignetting.
The RF 70-200mm f/2.8 L IS USM Z adopts this robust design, adding tech from the RF 24-105mm f/2.8 L IS USM Z. Unlike the external-zoom RF 70-200mm f/2.8, this model has an all-internal zoom and focus, ideal for sports photographers and filmmakers needing stability on gimbals or mounts. This Z model includes a lockable iris ring, two customizable buttons, a control ring, and a shorter zoom throw for faster transitions.
Additional features include compatibility with Power Zoom Adapters and RF Extenders, dual Nano USM AF motors, a 2.2' minimum focus, and controlled focus breathing. Available in Black and White, this telephoto zoom is a refined, versatile choice for both filmmakers and photographers.
A Lens Apart - Canon RF-S 7.8mm f/4 STM Lens
Canon’s RF-S 7.8mm f/4 STM Dual lens marks an innovative approach to 3D image capture, built specifically for the EOS R7 camera and Canon’s EOS VR System. This stereoscopic lens is purpose-made for creating immersive 3D content, viewable in formats such as spatial 3D, 180° VR, and 3D theater on devices like Apple Vision Pro and Meta Quest 3. By utilizing dual optics, it brings depth and realism to imagery that traditional two-dimensional content cannot achieve.
The 7.8mm Dual lens allows content creators to capture a highly immersive visual experience for dynamic 3D environments, daily scenes, and portraiture. Its dual 60° field of view closely mirrors human vision, enhancing realism in 3D VR by aligning the depth perception we naturally experience. This effect is further enriched by the lens’s 5.9” minimum focusing distance, with 0.07x magnification, making it ideal for close-up shots that reveal intricate textures and fine details within a scene.
Equipped with a gear-type STM autofocus motor, the lens provides precise and quiet focusing across both optics simultaneously, essential for seamless 3D image alignment and an uninterrupted viewing experience. This lens is Canon’s first dedicated 3D option in the RF lineup, designed to make high-quality VR and 3D content creation accessible for users venturing into spatial imaging.
