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Announcements
No specs were given, but I’m told we can expect a 1Ds4 and 60D to be announced in February. There won’t be a Rebel until the “MAM” quarter.
Lenses
Another email says we can expect 3 lenses to be announced in February
More to come I’m sure.
cr
From Germany
I had this info this morning, but I wasn’t given a link or a store name to backup any of the info.
Koch Foto has the lens listed as discontinued.
http://www.fotokoch.de/…..
The info comes from a German forum
http://www.dslr-forum.de/showthread.php?t=608971
The poster was told by Canon Germany that production of the lens had stopped.
Thanks Wolfram
cr
Quick Post
I’m just travelling around a bit at the moment and I’m unable to format or research these patents thoroughly. I’m sure some of you will tear it apart. A better translation would be appreciated.
This Japanese site has posted some Canon patents he/she has found.
This is a direct email quote
Based on his investigation Canon made following patents.
EF300/F4 IS II with plastic lens.
http://egami.blog.so-net.ne.jp/2009-12-17
EF 300 f/4L IS II
This would be a welcomed lens by many.
EF70-210/F4 IS II with plastic lens
http://egami.blog.so-net.ne.jp/2009-12-12
EF 70-200 f/4L IS II
Not sure this lens needs an update yet.
EF300/F2.8 DO IS and EF 400/F4 DO IS with new double DO and IS
http://egami.blog.so-net.ne.jp/2009-12-02
EF 300 f/2.8DO IS
A lot of DO patents popping up. A lot of people ask for smaller and lighter lenses.
EF 15-24/F3.5-4.5 Fish eye zoom (not EF-S)
http://egami.blog.so-net.ne.jp/2009-11-27
EF 15-24 f/3.5-4.5 Fisheye
I think this would be a great fisheye solution. It wouldn’t cost a lot at first sight.
CR’s Take
All make some sense outside of a new 70-200 f/4L IS.
View more lens patents here
Thanks Mitsu
cr
From Northlight
I just received this info, appears it’s from Northlight. The 1Ds4 COULD appear in February as well as the new lowend dslr’s.
Whenever it’s launched, we can expect the 1Ds4 to come “with lenses”.
Interesting tidbit, the 1Ds Mark III received a “new” tag on the Canon UK site.
*UPDATE*
A bunch of lenses have also received the “new” tag. Site issues it looks like.
APS-C DSLR Announcements [CR1]
Received some added information about the February 9, 2010 announcements.
The EF-S 60 f/2.8 Macro will be replaced with an IS version. This goes along with a patent we showed you earlier. The timing is probably good for such a lens.
January 9, 2010?
I previously posted about a January 9, 2010 announcement. I think something was lost in translation and the source actually meant February 9, 2010. I have received confirmation about the 2nd date. I think it’d be a longshot to make announcements on a Saturday in the middle of CES.
It’d be fun if I was wrong.
cr
What’s coming?
I’m told we’ll be seeing a slew of PowerShot cameras announced. Including high end ELPH/IXUS models.
DSLR?
We will see 1 or 2 SLR’s announced alongside the point & shoots.
There will be at least 1 Rebel announced. The possible 2nd SLR “sounds like a 60D”.
Lenses?
From this source it’s unknown at the moment.
As always, we’ll keep you posted.
cr
Exciting times!
Now that one of the most wanted updates is official, folks are hammering me when they can get one! The following is all I know at the moment.
- Pricing from Calumet in Germany is €2399
- Canon UK’s site says available March, 2010
- I have no official pricing from anywhere yet.
- Pricing in Canada is TBA
- I can’t find anyone taking preorders yet, that should change today.
A few have asked, this is not a lens I’ll be buying. I’m a fast prime junky when working.
cr
Canon EF 70-200 f/2.8L IS USM II | Image from DPR
5th January 2010 – Canon today adds to its acclaimed L-series with the launch of the new EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM telephoto zoom lens. The lens launches as the successor to the immensely popular EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM, offering improved performance in every area.
True to the L-series’ heritage, the EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM delivers optical excellence in the most challenging situations. As well as a revamp of the internal optical system, the lens has also been structurally re-developed as a direct result of user feedback, making it as robust and reliable as it is optically advanced.
“Reuters’ photographers have used the EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM for a number of years and it allows photographers a great level of flexibility,” said Reuters Production Editor Kevin Coombs. “The focal length, fast aperture and Image Stabilizer all contribute to it being a workhorse lens and you’ll find it in many professional photographers’ camera bags. I’m very much looking forward to seeing the improvements offered by the EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM.”
Premium quality, premium performance
The EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM features a re-designed optical system, consisting of 23 elements in 19 groups to deliver truly impressive results. A high-performance fluorite element is used at the heart of the lens path, coupled with no fewer than five ultra-low dispersion (UD) elements, drastically reducing chromatic aberration throughout the zoom range to produce high contrast images with edge-to-edge definition.
A high-speed Auto Focus (AF) system perfectly matches the abilities of the recently-launched EOS-1D Mark IV and EOS 7D Digital SLR (DSLR) cameras. The new model also features a ring-type USM AF motor, which combines with a new high-speed CPU and an optimised AF algorithm to make auto focusing both faster and quieter.
A reduced minimum focusing distance of 1.2 metres (3.9 ft) and improved 0.21x magnification will allow photographers to get closer to subjects without needing to swap lenses – greatly benefitting time-pressured news and events photographers who require flexibility. An updated Image Stabilizer mechanism also offers a shutter speed advantage equivalent to four-stops, reducing the effect of image blur resulting from camera shake in busy shooting environments.
Enhanced design, exceptional ease of use
As well as an update to the internal construction, the EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM features an enhanced external appearance to improve lens operation. The thickness of protruding exterior parts and switches has been significantly reduced, guarding against accidental switching and creating an improved overall look. The rubber focusing grip has also been redesigned and widened; with finely-patterned grooves making it easier to manually focus.
Being an L-series lens, the EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM is fully weatherproof, making it ideal for use in all weather conditions. The mount, focus mode switch and focusing ring all feature a completely dust and drip-proof structure, preventing dust or water from getting inside the camera and lens when used with accompanying weatherproof EOS bodies. The lens has been designed to stand up to the daily wear and tear of professional usage, making it a highly durable, reliable lens for use day-to-day by professional photographers.
High quality L-series accessories
The EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM is supplied with several accessories, including the new ET-87 Lens Hood and the Ring-Type Tripod Collar B (W). A brand new Lens Case LZ1326 is also included as standard, offering quick and easy access when users need to switch lenses in time-pressured situations.
Compatibility with a range of optional Canon accessories also allows users to pair the EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM with the Lens Extender EF 1.4x II, Lens Extender EF 2x II, Extension Tube EF 12 II, Extension Tube EF 25 II, and 77mm filters.
cr
*UPDATE*
I addressed Tilt-Shift, Macro and Teleconverters, I didn’t copy/paste that stuff over. Sorry about that.
Be sure to scroll down for part 1
I think there are far more people eager to see what lenses Canon has coming down the pipeline. I know I am.
I think this is going to be the year of the lens from Canon. I truly expect a lot of upgrades and a couple of new lenses.
Without further ado…….
I could see these three announced February 9, 2010.
14-24 f/2.8L
- An ultra wide for full frame that finally makes Canon users happy.
24-70 f/2.8L IS
- Upgraded coating, build and the much desired image stabilization. I personally think Nikon royally dropped the ball not VRing their 24-70.
70-200 f/2.8L IS II
- The current model is very good, but I wouldn’t call it great (don’t flame me too hard for saying that, I do own one) . The lens will get an upgraded IS and better optical performance, especially at 200mm. Lighter weight would be a welcomed bonus.
World Cup & Big White Lenses
I think we could definitely see updated big white lenses f0r the World Cup. I think 3 lenses will get upgraded.
- 300 f/2.8L IS II
- 400 f/2.8L IS II
- 500 f/4L IS II
No 600 f/4L IS upgrade for the time being. We’ve seen the patent for the 600 f/4 DO, I think that would be an amazing seller for Canon and will be an addition to the lineup. A new 600 f/4L IS in 2011.
New pair of fisheyes
- If Canon is serious about keeping APS-C around, they need an EF-S fisheye. I think the Nikon 10.5mm fisheye is too expensive for a crop lens. I could see the following 2 fisheyes.
- EF-S 10mm f/4 Fisheye
- EF 15mm f/2.8L II Fisheye
What about regular primes?
The following 2 lenses are due for an upgrade, I’ll predict one will get it.
EF 50 f/1.4 II
- The current 50 f/1.4 is one very old lens and among Canon’s most unreliable as far as build goes. The USM is dated and the AF motor isn’t the most reliable. The Sigma 50 f/1.4 is a much better lens (if you get a good copy). This should be upgraded and this might be the year.
EF 35 f/1.4L II
- The 14, 24, 50 , 85 & 200 are on a version 2. It’s time for the 35 to join them. I think we’ll see such a lens launched with the 1Ds Mark IV.
New Lenses?
Some kind of f/2 zoom will enter the lineup I think. I can’t even contemplate what the focal length would be, but something unique must be coming.
Teleconverters
I wouldn’t be shocked to see the 1.4 & 2.0 TC’s getting an update. Howabout adding a 1.7 like the Nikonians have?
Tilt-Shifts
I don’t think we’ll see a new TS-E 45 or TS-E 90 this year. There are bigger fish to fry at the moment, even as far as niche lenses go.
Macro Lenses
There is a patent for the EF-S 60 f/2.8 IS Macro. Could we see that in 2010? I’d wager it being a 2011 lens.
What won’t get upgraded?
I think the following lenses will stick around through 2010.
EF 100-400 f/4.5-5.6L IS
- Why bother? It’s head and shoulders better than the Nikkor 80-400 (slowest lens ever) and sells very well. Optically it’s great. The IS is very dated, but I don’t think the lens requires an upgrade over some other stuff.
EF 17-40 f/4L
- I want this lens upgraded, I want to see better corners. I love the size and weight of the current lens… and the price! Canon sells so many of these things as it sits, it must be low on the list to upgrade.
EF 135 f/2L
- This lens is marvelous as it is and really isn’t a “status” lens. The big white lenses don’t really need upgrades, but they’re definitely hype builders.
I have predicted 11 new lenses. My brain tells me that’s probably 3 too many. The big white lenses and fisheye lenses won’t be massive volume sellers, so I can see those produced alongside the volume lenses.
So the bold prediction? This will be the year of the lenses!
Part 3
I will focus on PowerShot and accessories!
cr
Canon Rumors 2009 Awards!
Here are my picks for the best and worst of 2009. Stay tuned tomorrow for my predictions for 2010 from Canon.
*Note: You may disagree with something here, just be nice about it if you make a comment.
Best New Digital SLR
Winner: 1D Mark IV
Runner-up: 7D
This was a tough choice because I have never used a 1D Mark IV (I will be soon). I’m basing this on initial reports from various pros. The image quality, autofocus and feature set make it a winner. The only knock folks have against it is the price. Do digital SLR’s really need to cost $5000?
The 7D is a great camera for most people. After seeing and experiencing the softness of the files at small apertures, my opinion of the camera dwindled a little bit. I still think the 7D is Canon actually listening (for the most part) to consumers of prosumer level camera bodies.
As I said last year, Canon had to rethink the xxD line. The 7D addresses that, now lets see what the 60D brings us.
Worst Digital SLR
Winner: Rebel T1i
More mega pixels and a gimped movie mode. The 18-55 has no hope of resolving the 15.1mp sensor the T1i possesses, so why bother?
The 20fps 1080p movie mode is ridiculous. Lower the bitrate or some other way to gimp the movie mode to keep it below the 7D and 5D2.
The Rebel line also needs scrollwheel. It’s not a saleable feature, but it sure is a great thing to have. Ergonomics of the camera in general feel dated.
I was a big fan of the Rebel line until complacency set it. Yes, the Rebel is the best selling digital slr on earth, but that doesn’t mean it can’t push the boundaries of what a great entry level dslr should be.
Best PowerShot
Winner: S90
Runner-up: SD780
I was happy to see the return of the S line from Canon. I love the S90. I love the size, the ergonomics, the ring and the image quality the camera dishes out. It’s great to see Canon has some creative engineers.
SD780?! Yes, I love that little thing. It’s small (oh so small) and quite stylish. The HD movie mode and image quality are pretty decent. This is another creative offering from Canon.
Worst PowerShot
Winner: SX120
Runner-up: A480
Big, ugly, unreliable and boring.. that’s all I have to say about the SX120. It’s a solid value for what it costs, I’m just not a fan.
The A480 is cheap, and probably worth what it costs. I’d like to see IS put into their entry level camera. The LCD on this camera is horrendous as well.
Best New Lens
Winner: TS-E 17 f/4L
Runner-up: EF-S 15-85 f/3.5-5.6 IS USM
Oh how fun is that 17mm Tilt-Shift? Tons! Canon’s new tilt-shifts, especially the 17mm set the benchmark again for these types of lenses. Image quality, build quality and useablity are second to none. A job well done.
The 17-85 sure needed to be upgraded as a kit lens. The 15-85 is a well built and very good performer on the 7D. You immediately notice the build quality and heft of the new lens when you pick it up. I’ve used it and really think it’s worth the price.
Worst New Lens
Winner: 18-135 IS
Zzzzz….
Best New Third Party Lens
Winner: Tamron 17-50 f/2.8 VC
I was a big fan of the original, adding vibration correction to the lens just makes it an even better value.
Best New Third Party Camera
Winner: Leica M9
Runner-up: Panasonic GF1
The M9 is a fine example of a company listening to its followers and delivering a great camera to follow-up a not so great camera. I liked the M8, but it was a hassle at times to use.
It costs a lot, but who cares? I’m a big fan of the rangefinder and always will be. I currently use some film Leicas and I’m currently waiting for my M9 to arrive (possibly March!). Leica will not be able to meet demand for this camera in 2010.
The Panasonic GF1 is almost great. The problems I have with the camera is it feels like a point & shoot, the external EVF is pretty bad, I find the camera quite ugly with all those logos on the front and the jpg processing is very poor.
However, it’s a giant step in the right direction for Micro 4/3. I wish Panasonic would hire some real camera designers to really bring the system up to par with other photographic tools.
cr
UPDATE
I received confirmation that the lens is the 800 f/5.6L IS. The shot was taken with a 400 f/2.8L IS. Weird look to it though.
Hmmm
A comment on the last thread brought up this image of a Canon pro with an unidentified lens.
To me, It looks like the 800 5.6L IS. The problem is, it doesn’t seem like the right size for it.
What do you think?
Name this lens
The image is from here: http://www.usa.canon.com/
cr
60D Specs
Someone claiming to be testing a new APS-C camera from Canon wrote in yesterday.
What are they testing?
Specs
18mp APS-C
6.3fps
Single Processor (DIGIC V?)
Looks like a 50D, but has a dedicated video button
1080p Video (no info on framerates)
Less weathersealing than the 7D
Lenses
The same person claims to also be testing the 24-70 f/2.8L II IS and a 100-200 f/2L IS.
The 200 f/2L IS is pretty big (and a personal favorite), how big would a zoom version be?
cr
1D Mark IV Delivery?
I’ve received a couple emails that state Canon will begin shipping Mark IV’s mid next week. I have nothing 100% confirmed.
EOS 60D
Lots of 60D questions. I haven’t received any super solid information.
Some things that have popped up over the last month or so. I [CR1] all of this.
1) 60D will be launched in the Spring 2010 and shipping before summer
2) Upgraded 15.1mp sensor
3) 720P video at 24, 25, 30 & 60 fps (No 1080p mode)
4) Same AF system as the 50D with some AI tweaks.
5) 6.3fps remains.
As I said, not much is too solid at this point.
Lenses
I’ve had a lot of emails saying how happy people would be if a 600 f/4 DO actually gets made. If they correct the low contrast shown in the 400 DO, we could have a big winner.
I did receive an email saying we’d see 2 new fisheyes launched in 2010. One for APS-C and one to replace the 15mm fisheye.
cr
New ones coming
Future “big white lenses” are going to have a restyled lens hood mechanism. The big knob approach is going to be replaced for something much better. Canon has been researching lens hood protection of the lens for a long while now.
The updated super telephotos will get a styling, coating and IS update.
On the agenda to be updated? (From past reports)
200 f/2L IS NO
300 f/2.8L IS YES
400 f/2.8L IS YES
500 f/4L IS YES
600 f/4L IS YES
800 f/5.6L IS NO
The new hood design could appear in the 200 & 800 as a standalone update for those lenses.
cr
New lenses in the wild
I’m told that a certain TV station will be using the 14-24 f/2.8L, 24-70 f/2.8L IS & 70-200 f/2.8L IS II for upcoming productions.
The lenses are planned for a 2010 release.
CR’s Take
There is going to be a lot of rumors piling up in regards to lenses over the next little while. Pay close attention to the CR ratings. Hopefully we get some CR2+ stuff soon.
cr