It’s official: This spring, Canon will release two new mirrorless bodies – the EOS R8 and EOS R50 – as well as two new lenses – the RF-S 55-210mm f/5-7.1 IS STM and the RF 24-50mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM.
But now that we have access to the manufacturer’s specifications, what will the new equipment offer for photographers and videographers? And how much can you expect it all to cost?
The Canon EOS R8 is a full-frame mirrorless camera fully compatible with Canon’s RF-mount lenses; with a 24 MP sensor, an unusually compact design, and a $1500 price tag (body only), it should slot into the entry-level end of the company’s EOS R lineup. At present, Canon does offer a cheaper full-frame mirrorless model, the EOS RP, but the EOS R8 improves on the RP in nearly every way: It boasts enhanced AF capabilities (Canon promises “class-leading autofocus”) and blazing-fast 40 FPS continuous shooting speeds, not to mention uncropped 4K/60p video (versus the severely limited 4K/24p video on the EOS RP).
Canon notes that the EOS R8 is “aimed at the up-and-coming video or photo enthusiast” and is a solid choice “[f]or users who’ve already explored interchangeable lens cameras but haven’t yet broken into mirrorless.” Personally, I think the camera has much broader appeal; a compact body, a speedy shutter, and impressive video capabilities make the EOS R8 an excellent option for serious content creators, hybrid shooters, and enthusiast photographers looking to make the jump to full frame (perhaps from Canon’s EOS M series), as well as current EOS RP and even EOS R owners seeking a faster, more portable model.
The EOS R50, on the other hand, is a true entry-level camera. Canon touts it as “[c]ompact, lightweight, and ideal for those looking to step up their video quality,” and at just $680, it certainly is affordable. The R50 packs plenty of features for video-focused content creators: uncropped 4K/30p recording, a fully articulating screen, and a delightfully small design. But it should also satisfy beginner still photographers; for under $700 (or $800 with the RF-S 18-45mm kit lens), you gain access to a 24 MP APS-C sensor, a decent-quality electronic viewfinder, excellent autofocus, and 15 FPS continuous shooting.
I can imagine the EOS R50 fulfilling a variety of needs. Thanks to the compact design and solid image quality, frequent travelers might use it for on-the-go vlogging and still photography, while street photographers and casual action photographers can rely on the camera’s fast continuous shooting speeds and excellent AF capabilities to stop movement in its tracks. The R50 should also work well as a casual, walkaround-type camera for indoor and outdoor photography; hang it around your neck or carry it in your bag, and you’ll be ready to shoot family events, social outings, and so much more at a moment’s notice.
As for the new lenses: Both the RF-S 55-210mm f/5-7.1 IS STM and the RF 24-50mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM are impressively affordable (at $350 and $300, respectively), and while I doubt either will offer breathtaking optical capabilities, they should come in handy for everyday shooting scenarios. The 55-210mm lens provides decent telephoto capabilities for headshot photography, basic wildlife photography, and pet photography; the 24-50mm lens boasts a wide-to-standard focal length that can capture portraits, landscapes, street scenes, and event shots.
Release dates for the new cameras and lenses vary. The EOS R50 and the RF-S 55-210mm f/5-7.1 IS STM are currently set to begin shipping in mid-March, while the EOS R8 and the RF 24-50mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM are slated for mid-April (according to B&H’s estimation, at least). Of course, these dates are subject to change, so if you’re interested in purchasing any of the products, be sure to check retailer websites for the most accurate information.
Now over to you:
What do you think of the EOS R8 and the EOS R50? How about the new lenses? Are you planning on buying any of the new gear? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
