After revealing in April that it’s developing the full-frame mirrorless EOS R3, Canon has teased a few more details about this impending pro-spec model. In good news for motorsports photographers, it’ll be the first Canon camera capable of specifically recognising and tracking focus on cars and motorcycles – a function previously only seen on the Olympus E-M1X. Photographers will also be able to select the subject simply by looking at it in the viewfinder, thanks to the intriguing return of Eye Control AF technology, which Canon used on several 35mm film SLRs in the mid-to-late 1990s.
Ths view reveals a contrl layout that combines elements from the EOS R5 and EOS-1D series
With Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology onboard, the EOS R3 is said to be capable of autofocus and autoexposure tracking while shooting raw files at 30 frames per second, and of autofocusing in light as low as -7EV. A brand-new back illuminated stacked CMOS sensor enables a high-speed electronic shutter, which promises both minimal rolling-shutter distortion during silent shooting and flash sync with external Speedlites. In-body image stabilisation is touted to work together with in-lens IS for up to 8 stops of shake reduction.
Canon has also revealed that the camera will be capable of recording oversampled 4K video. Raw video can be recorded internally, Canon Log 3 will be on hand for colour grading in post-production, and subject-recognition AF will be available during video shooting.
The EOS R3’s densely packed back includes a fully articulated LCD.
On the back, the firm has revealed that the EOS R3 will sport a fully articulated screen, three customisable control dials like the EOS R5 and R6, and both a multi-controller and a smart controller for moving the focus point. The latter isn’t all that’s borrowed from the EOS-1D X Mark III, with the R3 also accommodating the same high-capacity LP-E19 battery into its integrated vertical grip and promising an equal level of weather resistance. Dual card slots will accept SD and CFexpress media.
As befits a professional sports camera, both Wired LAN and 5GHz Wi-Fi connectivity are included. Canon also says that a new accessory shoe will provide a data connection with as-yet-unrevealed accessories. There’s no concrete information on when the EOS R3 will be officially launched, but it’s highly likely to be in time for the Tokyo Olympics towards the end of July.
