Canon has released details of the RF 35mm f/1.4L VCM, the first hybrid lens for both stills and video, along with the new Speedlite EL-10 lightweight flash.


Angled view of the new RF 35mm f/1.4L VCM hybrid lens with the optional EW-73F lens hood attached. (Source: Canon.)

Designed for photojournalists and content creators and part of an expanding lineup, this dual-purpose lens is the only RF prime lens with a dedicated iris control ring for video. With an optical design consisting of 14 elements in 11 groups with aspheric and UD lens elements, it boasts an 11-bladed iris diaphragm, which can be adjusted to produce smooth out of focus areas to separate the subject from the background or foreground. This lens also has minimal focus breathing to help videographers avoid visual distractions when pulling focus from one subject to another. Autofocusing is controlled by a fast Nano Ultra Sonic Motor (USM), combined with even faster Voice Coil Motor  (VCM) technology, which deliver precise focusing for a rapid response as scenes unfold. the dedicated Lens Control Ring and customisable Lens Function Button allows photographers and videographers to stay immersed in the action when adjusting settings.

Like other L-series lenses, this lens is dust- and moisture-resistant and has a fluorine coating on the front element which repels dirt and sand, making it easy to keep clean. Flare and ghosting are controlled with Super Spectra and ASC coatings. Its light design (at 555 grams it is lighter than the EF predecessor) makes for comfortable shooting for long periods in the field. This lens accepts 67 mm front filters and also has a rear filter holder. The RF 35mm f/1.4L VCM lens is priced at $2,699 RRP (including GST) and scheduled for release in Australia from late this month. It will be supported by Canon Australia’s 5-year warranty when purchased from an authorised Canon Australia reseller. Click here for details. The optional EW-73F lens hood for the RF 35mm F1.4L VCM is priced at $65 RRP (including GST) and is scheduled to be available in Australia from July 2024.


The new Canon Speedlite EL-10. (Source: Canon.)

Lightweight, compact, and affordable, Canon’s new Speedlite EL-10 boasts a category-leading 1.5 second recharge time and seamless integration with features such as linked custom modes and remote flash control. The multifunction shoe interface provides enhanced communication when moving from sunlight to shadow on an outdoor shoot, or when working with changing colour tones when shooting fashion. Settings can be changed remotely through the Camera Connect smartphone app, with the camera and Speedlite responding together. The Speedlite EL-10 covers a 24-105mm zoom range and a versatile power range. With a weight of only 284 grams and powered by four AA batteries, it is also ideal for everyday use. The Speedlite EL-10 is priced at $499 RRP (including GST) and is scheduled to be available in Australia from July 2024. Click here for details.