Recently launched Canon cameras like the Canon EOS R5 C are aimed squarely at professionals, but strong rumors suggest that the camera giant will launch three affordable EOS R models later this year.
Reliable Canon Rumor says “a very good source” has confirmed that three EOS R cameras are on the roadmap “for the second half of 2022”, with all of them expected to fill a significant gap. under current camera models like the Canon EOS R5 .
Currently, all Canon EOS R cameras have full-frame sensors. But one of the three rumored cameras, possibly called the Canon EOS R7, is expected to be the first built around a smaller APS-C sensor. Canon Rumors’ sources have suggested that it will be a “true hybrid camera” like a cross between the Canon EOS M50 Mark II and Canon EOS 7D Mark II DSLR.
There’s also good news for those waiting for a successor to the aging Canon EOS RP, a full-frame model currently the most affordable in Canon’s EOS R line of cameras. Canon Rumors sources say that “a new entry-level full-frame RF mount camera will be announced” and will use the same 20MP sensor as the Canon EOS R6.
The third camera is rumored to be a mystery. This will likely sit between the Canon EOS RP and Canon EOS R6 successors, and will include a new image sensor with a lower pixel count than the 45MP Canon EOS R5. The most likely scenario for this camera is that it will succeed the original Canon EOS R and act as a mid-range model in its mirrorless lineup.
One small hit for keen photographers, however, is that Canon Rumors’ source also suggests that “EVF could be dropped from at least one of these cameras”, most likely the model. low level image. The electronic viewfinder is considered essential by most photographers, but for hybrid photographers (who focus mainly on video) it is arguably less important and removing it is a way. good for discount.
Although the chip shortage affects most camera manufacturers, including Canon, Canon Rumors speculates that the manufacturer “may have found some solution to the problem internally”, thus will obviously include three new camera models in the 2022 roadmap. Rumors suggest we’ll have to wait until the second half of the year to see the new cameras, but it’s likely good news for those who can’t get their hands on the Canon EOS R5 ($3,899 / £4,199 / AU$6,899) or EOS R6 ($2,499 / £2,499 / AU$4,499).
Analysis: Promising news for hobbyists and amateurs
Photography has always been an expensive hobby, but that’s especially so in recent years as major camera manufacturers have started new mirrorless systems led by highly professional models. grant.
While this is understandable, given that professional cameras and lenses are where the profits are high, these new rumors will be music to the ears of those looking to upgrade to Canon’s EOS R system without need to sell their car.
There have long been rumors of an APS-C model for Canon’s EOS R line of cameras, as the company hasn’t hesitated to invest in its EOS-M cameras. The smaller sensor should result in a relatively affordable price tag and compact size, with the only downside being the current lack of native APS-C lenses in Canon’s RF range.
According to Canon Rumors’ sources, another potential problem for those primarily leaning towards photography rather than video is the rumor of removing the electronic viewfinder on “at least one of these cameras”.
Video is by far the biggest growth area for camera makers, with the creative economy booming, so it’s possible that the rumored Canon EOS RP successor will lean heavily in that direction. .
But however Canon plans to introduce these rumored cameras, the arrival of affordable options in their EOS R lineup will be cause for celebration and show that the camera Standalone photos don’t have to be professional products, appropriate in the smartphone age.