Canon has just unveiled what can only be described as a game-changing lens, the RF 10-20mm F4 L IS STM, offering the world’s widest zoom range with autofocus for mirrorless cameras. This lens is a landmark achievement, and it’s poised to redefine what’s possible in the world of mirrorless photography.
A Revolution in Lens Design
Think of the RF 10-20mm as the mirrorless counterpart to Canon’s EF 11-24mm f/4 L USM lens for DSLRs. The latter has long been a staple for professional architecture, interior, and landscape photographers. However, the RF 10-20mm represents a radical departure in design, showcasing the unique possibilities of mirrorless technology.
Just like the 11-24mm F4 DSLR lens, the RF 10-20mm F4 is a rectilinear ultra-wide-angle lens. What this means is that it maintains straight lines throughout the entire frame, eliminating the barrel distortion often associated with fisheye and wide-angle lenses. This rectilinear design is a must-have for professional architecture and interior photographers who demand precision in their work. Moreover, if you keep the lens parallel to your subjects, perspective distortion is beautifully controlled.
Impressively, the new RF 10-20mm F4 is incredibly lightweight, tipping the scales at a mere 20.1 ounces (570 grams). This is less than half the weight of the 11-24mm F4 DSLR lens, which weighs a substantial 41.6 ounces (1,180 grams). This significant weight reduction makes the RF 10-20mm the lightest F4 zoom lens in Canon’s lineup. The contrast between this mirrorless lens and its DSLR counterpart is truly staggering.
Enhanced Image Stabilization for Mirrorless
Naturally, the mirrorless advantage also extends to image stabilization. Combining the RF 10-20mm’s 5-stops of optical stabilization with the in-body stabilization of an EOS R-series camera can achieve up to 6-stops of stabilization. This means you can leave the tripod behind more often, and don’t forget, this lens is also half the weight of its DSLR equivalent. Mirrorless photography takes the lead.
Furthermore, the RF 10-20mm is the first professional L-series lens from Canon to utilize STM motors for nearly silent autofocus. The small and lightweight nature of this full-frame L-series lens makes this innovation possible. The motors keep the focus group in an active position, which results in quicker start-up times from standby mode.
While the lens hasn’t been held yet, it’s expected to pair excellently with an EOS R-series camera, especially given that the heaviest lens elements are positioned at the rear of the lens, in contrast to the front-heavy design of the EF 11-24mm.
Peripheral Control Image Stabilization
When paired with an EOS R5, the RF 10-20mm unlocks peripheral control image stabilization. The EOS R5 uses advanced algorithms to correct for the lens’s perspective, ensuring effective stabilization. This is especially valuable for ultra-wide lenses, where corner distortion can be an issue during stabilization, particularly in video applications. It’s worth noting that, as of now, it’s uncertain which other Canon cameras will support peripheral control stabilization.
Unique Filter Solution
With its bulbous front lens element and built-in lens hood, the 10-20mm F4 lens cannot accept traditional front threaded filters. However, it features a rear gelatine filter holder, allowing photographers to use small gelatine filters to achieve various creative effects.
Canon’s RF 10-20mm F4 L IS STM lens is a revolutionary step forward in lens design, redefining what’s possible for mirrorless photography. It offers unprecedented lightweight versatility and image stabilization, making it an exciting addition to Canon’s lens lineup.
