Canon has introduced its latest innovation, the RF-S 3.9mm F3.5 STM DUAL FISHEYE, an APS-C virtual reality (VR) lens.
This new lens complements the existing RF 5.2mm F2.8L DUAL FISHEYE, aiming to simplify the creation of high-quality 3D VR content for both beginners and experienced users.
Dual Fisheye Lens Technology
Dual fisheye lenses consist of two separate lenses placed side by side to mimic human binocular vision. Each lens captures an image from slightly different perspectives, producing two images that correspond to the views from the left and right eyes. This configuration creates a stereoscopic effect, allowing for depth perception in VR content.
Compact Design and Features
Compact Design and FeaturesThe RF mount and folded optical design contribute to the lens’s compact structure, making it convenient for use in confined spaces. Weighing just 10.2 ounces, the lens is lightweight and portable.
Key features of the RF-S 3.9mm F3.5 STM DUAL FISHEYE include:
- Compatibility with EOS R7 Mirrorless Camera
- APS-C format with an aperture range of f/3.5 to f/16
- High-quality VR content creation
- 6.2mm full-frame equivalent focal length
- Stereoscopic 3D 180° VR imagery
- STM stepping autofocus motor
- 144° field of view
- Air Sphere Coating
- 7-blade diaphragm
- 30.5mm rear filter thread
Currently, the lens is only compatible with the EOS R7 camera. The RF-S 3.9mm F3.5 STM DUAL FISHEYE combines the left and right perspectives into a single compact dual fisheye optical design, making it a more affordable option compared to previous models.
Advanced Features
The lens offers a 144-degree recording angle, providing a narrower field of view compared to VR180 shooting. The focus ring can be reassigned to control functions such as aperture or ISO. It is Canon’s first 3D lens with autofocus (AF), featuring a One Shot Autofocus (AF) setting.
Additionally, the lens is the first non-L Series model to incorporate premium Air Sphere Coating, which reduces aberrations like flare and ghosting. It also includes two Ultra Low Dispersion (UD) elements per lens for sharp image production. The RF-S 3.9mm F3.5 STM DUAL FISHEYE has a rear-mounted filter holder for both screw-on and gelatin filters.
Immersive Viewing Experience
When viewed through a compatible VR headset, the 3D stereoscopic lens provides a 144-degree viewing angle, resulting in a natural, forward-facing view that utilizes peripheral vision for full immersion. The lens’s 60mm interpupillary distance closely mimics human vision, delivering a realistic 3D effect for subjects.
Growing VR Market
With the VR content creation market projected to exceed $22 billion by 2025, the RF-S 3.9mm F3.5 STM DUAL FISHEYE makes creating 3D content more accessible for various applications, including gaming, education, tourism, documentaries, and entertainment.
Development of RF-S 7.8mm F4 STM DUAL Lens
Canon has also announced the development of the RF-S 7.8mm F4 STM DUAL lens for capturing spatial video for use with Apple’s Vision Pro. This lens features a field angle similar to human vision, enabling videographers to naturally capture moments. It also boasts a high-speed autofocus mechanism, allowing users of all levels to record impressive spatial video.
Pricing and Availability
Pricing and AvailabilityThe RF-S 3.9mm F3.5 STM DUAL FISHEYE is priced at $1,099 USD and is scheduled for release in late June.
