Canon launches RF-S 3.9mm F3.5 STM lens for VR

Canon has announced the RF-S 3.9mm F3.5 STM Dual Fisheye, a new APS-C VR lens for the EOS R System

The RF-S 3.9mm F3.5 STM is designed to facilitate high-quality 3D VR content creation for both experienced users and newcomers and is further evidence of Canon’s push into the VR content creation market.

The lens It incorporates dual fisheye lenses positioned side by side to simulate human binocular vision. Each lens captures an image from a slightly different perspective, creating two separate images that correspond to the views from the left and right eyes.

This setup generates a stereoscopic effect, enabling depth perception in VR for an immersive experience.

RF-S 3.9mm F3.5 STM performance

The RF-S 3.9mm F3.5 STM Dual Fisheye is priced to be more affordable than its predecessors, making high-quality VR content creation more accessible. Despite its lower price point, the lens maintains the high optical performance associated with the EOS R System.

It offers a 144-degree recording angle, providing a narrower field of view compared to VR180 shooting. According to Canon, this combines with a large depth of field to simplify setup and keep attention on the subject. reducing the need for additional equipment like lighting or tripods.

RF-S 3.9mm F3.5 STM features

The RF-S 3.9mm F3.5 STM is the first Canon 3D lens with autofocus (AF), featuring a One Shot AF setting to streamline the shooting process. The focus ring can then be assigned to other functions such as aperture or ISO.

The lens includes Air Sphere coating to prevent aberrations like flare and ghosting and utilises two UD elements per lens.

Its f/3.5 aperture offers some versatility in various lighting and a rear-mounted filter holder for screw-on and gelatin filters adds further creative flexibility.

Viewing experience

When viewed through a compatible headset, the lens’ 144-degree viewing angle and 60mm interpupillary distance provide a natural, forward-facing view. The setup closely mimics human vision, delivering a realistic 3D effect.

For more information on the Canon RF-S 3.9mm F3.5 STM Dual Fisheye, visit Canon’s website.