Canon’s journey with Speedlites has been exciting, but recently it hit a turning point with the discontinuation of the flagship Speedlite EL-1. This left a noticeable gap in their lineup, and while Profoto is often considered a top alternative for high-end lighting, many dental photographers still prefer to use Canon-branded gear to maintain full compatibility within their system.
There are rumors that Canon may soon announce a new Hybrid Speedlite, which could potentially take the position of the new flagship model. However, this information hasn’t been confirmed. If the rumors are true, this new Speedlite might include both traditional flash functionality and a video light, which would make it a versatile tool for both still photography and video documentation.
The addition of a video light is more than just a novelty. For dental photographers, this could offer significant benefits, especially when working in environments that require both still images and videos. Imagine shooting clinical photos and quickly transitioning to record video demonstrations using the same light source—no need to switch setups. This hybrid system would streamline workflows for those involved in intraoral photography and dental portfolio shoots.
One of the most anticipated features of this rumored Speedlite is the control over shallow depth of field (DOF), allowing dental professionals to create more artistic and dynamic images. The continuous lighting mode could be particularly useful for crafting soft, diffused backgrounds while keeping the subject, such as a dental restoration or smile design, in sharp focus. This combination of precise lighting and DOF control is invaluable for those aiming to elevate their dental photography into the realm of artistic presentation.
Canon hasn’t confirmed the specifics yet, but we’ve been told to expect new Speedlite features beyond the hybrid lighting. What exactly those features will be remains unclear. The official announcement could come as early as November, though delays in the EOS R era have been common, especially with products like Speedlites, which can take longer to reach the market.
It’s also worth noting that there has been a recall on the Speedlite EL-5, so it’s clear Canon is working to refine its lighting solutions. While there is no confirmed flagship model in the current lineup, we don’t expect Canon to leave this gap unfilled for long.
For now, dental photographers should keep an eye on the developments, as this new Hybrid Speedlite could represent a major leap forward for those who need to capture both photos and videos with professional lighting.
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If you’re a dental photographer looking to upgrade your gear for intraoral photography or even detailed dental portfolio shots, the rumored release of the Canon EOS R6 Mark III should definitely be on your radar. Canon’s R6 line has been a favorite among professionals for its versatility, performance, and excellent price-to-quality ratio, making it one of the most popular full-frame mirrorless cameras, especially for us, working in the dental photography world.
Originally, many speculated that the EOS R6 Mark III would drop by the end of 2024, but the latest whispers point toward a release in the first quarter of 2025. An image of what’s believed to be the new model has surfaced, and while the number isn’t visible, there are noticeable differences compared to the EOS R6 Mark II. As we can see, there’s a new button on top — but its function remains a mystery.
While the final specs are still up in the air, it’s expected that the EOS R6 Mark III will stick with the 24MP sensor, which is more than enough for the high-quality intraoral and portrait shots dental professionals need. Some rumors suggest it might even feature the advanced sensor from the EOS R3, which would significantly boost image quality, especially in low-light situations, such as when capturing precise details in dental photography.
Another exciting possibility for dental photographers is the dual card slot setup — one CFe and one SD — similar to what we see in the EOS R5 Mark II. This can be a huge advantage when shooting large amounts of data, like high-res dental photos or video content for dental photography courses, ensuring you have enough storage space for extended sessions.
Canon is known for using the EOS R6 series to introduce new features, and we’re expecting no less from the Mark III. The R6 Mark II introduced the “precapture” feature, allowing photographers to capture key moments more easily — a tool that could be invaluable for those working on intricate intraoral shots or dental portfolio photography. The Mark III is likely to continue this trend, adding more video capabilities and other features to streamline the workflow for dental photographers.
So, while we wait for the official details, dental photographers can look forward to some exciting advancements in the Canon EOS R6 Mark III, making it an excellent option for upgrading your dental photography setup. Stay tuned for more updates — we’ll keep you posted as soon as we know more!
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Zuiko Digital ED 90mm F3.5 Macro IS PRO
If you’re using the Olympus system in your dental photography practice, this one’s for you!
The Micro 4/3 macro lens users finally can choose the long-focus lens.
The lens offers the highest ever magnification which will be helpful especially in intraoral photography. Shooting a single tooth won’t be an issue! What’s more, the lens allows creativity and it’s not so usual with other, regular macro lenses. We’re pretty sure you’ll be happy with it if macro photography is your hobby in general, apart from the dental photography industry.
The automatic stacking system lets the lens work smoothly with all the OM system cameras. Sharp pictures are guaranteed! The 2x macro combined with the Micro 4/3 gives the 4x magnification for the 35 mm format and when we’re talking stabilization, we mean perfection. You won’t need a tripod for intraoral photography and we know how big a difference it makes. Leaving a tripod at the dental office door means easier work and less inconveniences.
Now, let’s move on to th
e technical data.
The 90mm F3.5 Macro IS PRO is an autofocus lens that delivers up to 2x macro (or 4x with a 2x teleconverter). Its stabilization system is compatible with the Sync IS system, allowing it to work in conjunction with in-body stabilization of Olympus/OM System cameras.
The lens is constructed from 18 elements, arranged in 13 groups. Its design has two focus groups that act in conjunction, allowing very close focus when the focus limit switch is in the ‘Macro’ position. The lens also has a focus ring that can be snapped back to reveal a focus distance scale and (on Olympus or OM System cameras) engage manual focus.
Of course, its macro possibilities are only one of many features and it will cope with a dental portrait and creating a dental portfolio as well.
RESThe OM System 90mm F3.5 macro IS pro’s price tag is $1,499.99.
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DSLRs are dead!
You may expect it year after year but hold your horses. If we weren’t sure until now, now we are, because Canon says it without any doubt: DLSRs are alive and they’re fine and you can work with them as a dental photographer.
Canon still accounts for a third of the entire camera market, with as many as 1.8 million digital SLRs being sold last year! And of course, Canon sells more than anyone else.
Why would anyone think that this is the end of the DSLR era? Well, there were no new models shown during the last CP+ event. But there’s an easy explanation to that.
“CP+ is a place to present new products, and that’s why you won’t see many DSLRs this year. All companies are of course focusing on hybrids. But SLRs still represent 30% of global sales. That means there’s always demand for this range – and most DSLRs sold globally are made by Canon.
“There is also a high volume of lenses that are still intended for the DSLR ecosystem. We do not envisage a sudden end to SLRs, nor an instant switch to hybrids. Sure, there will likely be a gradual decline, but the demand is still there. – says Go Tokura, general manager of Canon’s Imaging Division.
Interestingly, as we can see, Canon distinguishes three camera types at the moment: mirrorless, hybrid and DSLRs. And the latter is still hanging in there.
Are you a DSLR or mirrorless fan in your dental office?
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Canon’ statement says: Regarding the “Speedlite EL-2022”, which was announced on November 11, 2 and scheduled to be released in March 2023, due to production reasons, we have decided to postpone the release to around the summer of 2023 because we cannot prepare a sufficient supply for the release.
We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience.
(Before change) Scheduled to be released in March 2023
(After change) Scheduled to be released around summer 2023
The Speedlite EL-5 is to be Canon’s first to take advantage of the multi-function hotshoe found on its latest EOS R series mirrorless cameras.
It seems to be a potential, new dental photography equipment to choose.
Canon Speedlite EL-5 Specs
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Dental photographers can choose a new addition from the Canon’s family! Will one of the smallest and cheapest cameras be enough for a dental photographer?
The EOS R50 effectively replaces the EOS M50 II and marks the transition of the series to RF. The camera is said to replace the M50 Mark II, due to the use of the company’s now-standard RF mount lenses.
The camera has a 24.2MP APS-C sensor, advanced subject detection technology known from the Canon R6 Mark II and the new Canon R8, and uses the company’s newer DIGIC X processor. There’s no in-body image stabilization in the R50, but thanks to its light weight keeping the balance shouldn’t be an issue.
The R50 is surprisingly adept at burst shooting for such a small camera!Itcan grab clips at up to 12 frames per second using its electronic/mechanical shutter mode, or 15 frames per second in fully electronic mode (with the risk of moving subjects appearing distorted if there’s too much lateral movement).
The EOS R50 uses the same LP-E17 battery as Canon’s other small ILCs. It’s a 7.5Wh battery which isn’t a lot to power a mirrorless camera. It’ll do well for snapping occasional photos as you go about your day, but if you devote any length of time to photos, always keep a spare battery while shooting your patient in a dental office with you to avoid unpleasant surprises. There’s nothing more stressful than your battery with your patient waiting on the chair!
Canon has also gone a long way to make connecting a camera to a phone or laptop as simple as possible, with several different methods of wirelessly transferring files.
Writing as a keen dental photographer, though, it’s hard to wholeheartedly recommend this camera. In my opinion, it can be the right choice for a beginner in the dental photography industry; due to its lightweight, you won’t be tired too quickly.
What about the lack of stabilization? Well, we’d recommend purchasing the right lens to ensure your intraoral photos will be spotless. Choosing the more expensive one will be smart, as you can always resell it and go to the next level.
You’ll need to keep in mind that changing settings – with no C1, C2 or C3 modes – will take more time than usual, and switching from portrait to intraoral photos is tricky and can cause a mistake. Searching for the right setting in the menu takes additional time and with your patient waiting it’s easy to choose the wrong option.
Definitely, this is a low-budget camera for beginners, so if you’re able to pay more, take the R10 or R8 under consideration.
If you’re a vlogger, this camera will be suited for you. Streaming your webinars online won’t be a problem!
The camera costs $680, or, the RF-S 18-45mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM and RF-S 55-210mm f/5-7.1 IS STM lenses, is available for $1,029.
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Hello, dental photographers and Canon users!
The manufacturer has just released new firmware for its Canon EOS R6 Mark II. The new firmware adds support for the Speedlight EL-5 and a few bug fixes.
Here are the available fixes and changes:
The firmware can be downloaded here.
First, the Canon EOS R6 Mark II shoots twice as fast as the original EOS R6 (which is now discontinued in favor of the new model). Some say, it’s basically a new Mini R3 and call it a sports, action, and events shooting monster thanks to a dramatically improved autofocus system thanks to a new AI chip, an improved buffer, as well as the ability to shoot up to 40 frames per second.
This impressive autofocus could be a game-changer when it comes to dental portrait photography! And if you’re a fan of autofocus in intraoral photography as well, this one will surely meet your expectations. And as for other photography freaks (myself included), the speed of taking photos will be pure pleasure, especially with continuous light.
In my opinion, the higher pixel density is the biggest asset. The EOS R6 was always a bit of an odd fish. Its 20MP sensor was always going to compare badly to its 24MP rivals, and the R6 was not cheap either. Personally, I would be really glad if the pixels number would reach 30 million.
So let’s take a look at the key differences between the Canon EOS R6 II and the EOS R6 to see what Canon has done and the difference it’s likely to make:
1. Design
When it comes to the physical buttons, Canon loves to move them around, right? And so, here we’re getting an entirely different system for that on the R6 II that moves the power button from the left side of the body to the right, replacing it with a dedicated photo/video switch. It can be difficult to switch your memory to the new settings and it can be seen as a problem.
Physically, the EOS R6 II and R6 are largely indistinguishable. They both have dust and weather sealing, they both have a 3.69m-dot EVF and vari-angle rear screen and both offer dual SD UHS-II card slots.
They even use the same LP-E6NH batteries and BG-R10 battery grip, though Canon does claim the R6 II offers a 50% improvement in battery life when using the LCD screen. I can’t wait to check this feature in practice: worrying about charging the battery can be exhausting.
2. Sensor
3. Autofocus
The R6 was already pretty advanced when it comes to AF, but the EOS R6II goes further.
It features improved deep learning AI subject tracking. You can choose subject types manually or leave the camera to decide what it’s looking at. You can set left or right-eye tracking, and if the eyes can’t be detected the R6 II will switch to the face; if that’s hidden it will switch to head detection, and if that’s not possible is will recognize the subject’s body.
I can’t wait to check the AF in dental macrophotography and how it will cope with the teeth sharpness. This is definitely something dental photographers can be happy with.
4. Image Stabilization
Both cameras have IBIS systems offering up to 8 stops of sync IS shake compensation, dependent on the lens in use.
Canon claims the in-body image stabilization in the EOS R6 II offers the world’s most effective IS performance, with up to 8 stops of compensation with combined lens/body IS and the right lenses. However, the EOS R6 before it also offered up to 8 stops of compensation, so we will assume that this particular feature hasn’t changed.
If you’re taking dental photos in continuous light, this feature can provide you with a less blurred result. I’ll check it, but in my opinion the previous stabilization was also fine!
Key specifications:
The Canon EOS R6 Mark II goes on sale 29 November – and is set to cost $3,599 /£2,779.99 / AU$4,499 body only.
Summarise:
The Canon EOS R6 Mark II has, faster shooting, more megapixels, and better video features – but is that enough to tempt R6 users in dental photography into upgrading? Perhaps not – but the new specs are likely to make the EOS R6 II a much more compelling camera for hybrid stills/video photographers looking for its particular brand of speed and versatility but without taking a drop in resolution.
If you already have the EOS R6, the improvements in the R6 II are modest enough and don’t instantly make your camera obsolete. But, if you were considering the R6 but put off solely by its 20MP sensor, the EOS R6 II should banish all your doubts!
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Nikon Rumors is reporting that the company plans to release two new DSLRs in 2021 along with “several” F-mount lenses.
It looks like the company has to offer dental photographers a lot this year. After all, dental digital photography requires a good equipment!
What are the specific plans for 2021 that Nikon users will benefit?
We will keep you posted on any new releases perfect for dental and intraoral photography!
Check out our comparison in Dental Photography Course: DSLR vs Mirrorless!
The Nikon D850 just received a $500 price cut: its price is just $2,500! This makes it more affordable than it’s ever been since it was released in 2017. This is an incredible offer for the full-frame DSLRs lovers.
We bet you’re happy now, as the D850 is one of the most popular cameras in dental photography. If you’ve been thinking about purchasing it – it looks like now is the best time!
The price drop, originally spotted by Nikon Rumors. If you don’t need szybkiego video autofocus, and you’ve not been wooed by the latest and greatest mirrorless options, this is a deal you’ll want to look at very closely.
According to NR, the price cut comes a sale before the new release, as there is a follow-up to the D850 coming in “early 2021.” That camera could be one of Nikon’s last full-frame DSLRs before shifting all of its attention to the mirrorless Z-series.
And if you’re more a mirrorless person and you’re thinking about the new Z5, you can try it – for free!
We’ve got same releases these days! Nikons announces Z6 II and Z7 II and Canon comes with its successor to the “#1 selling mirrorless camera in the United States,” the EOS M50 Mark II mirrorless camera.
What’s new? Well, the M50 Mark II shares the same 24MP APS-C sensor with its predecessor, and the same Digic 8 image processor. But there are some improvements, too. The Dual Pixel autofocus system has been updated to allow eye tracking in both stills and video. You can also shoot a vertical video and stream it to YouTube Live over a smartphone internet connection.
According to Canon, the EOS M50 Mark II includes “many of the beloved features of its predecessor” while adding a few more to enhance its usability.
What do you think of EOS M50 Mark II’s main features?
We’re pretty sure it can be the ne favourite camera among dental photography beginners. The only thing missing is the custom shooting mode: it allows you to register current camera settings, such as the shooting mode, menu functions, and Custom Function settings, as Custom shooting modes under the Mode Dial’s <C1> and <C2> positions. This would be useful.
The EOS M50 Mark II will be available in late November 2020 for $599 USD body-only, $699 USD as a kit with the 15-45mm F3.5-6.3, and $929 USD as a kit with the 15-45mm and 55-200mm F4.5-6.3 lenses.
If you want to know more about cameras in dental photography, check out our lesson!
The Olympus brand name will continue following the sale to new owner Japan Industrial Partners (JIP), the manufacturer has confirmed. But the real question is: what is the future of the Micro Four Thirds format?
The company asked itself directly on its website: “What is the future of Micro Four Thirds?” And the answer it chose to give was a bit disappointing, “We are not able to comment on future product development at this time.”
It has always been taken as red that the company was committed to Micro Four Thirds. Will this be the next end of an era?
The highest resolution Canon cameras ever released are still the 5Ds and 5DsR DSLRs, but that may change pretty soon now. The Canon EOS RS – the manufacturer’s long rumored, highly anticipated and high resolution member of the growing R system family – is making headlines again. According to reports, the “finished product” is now being field tested – and it possesses a sensor in the 90MP region.
As we can read in Canon Rumors, “a small group of photographers have the high-megapixel body in their hands as it’s going through the first phase of testing as a finished product.” This same source tells CR that the camera is “around 90MP”.
The higher resolution and larger EVF would be nods towards the EOS RS’ likely applications for product and other studio work – which means it can be perfect for us, dental photographers.
And as we’re waiting for more leaks, we can focus on the EOS R6. Have you seen it already?
Olympus is exiting the camera business after an 84-year run! This means we can finally confirm the ongoing rumors and say ‘goodbye’ to one of the world’s most recognizable brands in the industry.
As we can read in th press release, Olympus has signed a memorandum of understanding to sell its camera division to Japan Industrial Partners (JIP), the same investment firm that acquired Sony’s VAIO PC business back in 2014.
Olympus and JIP are aiming to sign a legally binding deal by September 30th.
After three years of losses Olympus says it needs a more ‘compact, efficient and agile’ corporate structure and claims having a new company run the camera business is the only way to make it survive and grow.
We must wait to see if this happens.
The Technical Image Press Association has announced the winners of the 2020 TIPA World Awards. The competition honors each year the best cameras, lenses, and other products that have made an impact on the photography industry.
The winners in each of the 40 categories were voted on by representatives from TIPA member industry magazines from around the world. The votes were collected by an online system due to the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic.
We’ve chosen for you the best equipment for Dental Photography. If you’re shopping right now, this recommendation is worth to take under consideration.
Best DSLR Advanced Camera: Canon EOS 90D
Best DSLR Expert Camera: Nikon D780
Best DSLR Professional Camera: Canon EOS-1DX Mark III
Best APS-C Camera Advanced: Nikon Z50
Best APS-C Camera Expert: Sony a6600
Best Full Frame Camera Expert: Sigma fp
Best Full Frame Professional Camera: Sony a7R IV
Best Full Frame Photo/Video Camera: Panasonic LUMIX DC-S1H
Best DSLR Macro Lens: Venus Optics Laowa 100mm f/2.8 2x Ultra Macro APO
Best Mirrorless Prime Standard Lens: NIKKOR Z 58mm f/0.95 S Noct
Best Imaging Software: DxO PhotoLab 3
Best Portable Flash: Nissin MG80 Pro flash
Why should the beginners take it under consideration? First of all, Z50 is small and easy to use every day and keep it in any dentist office. One of the features we like is its ability to remember individual settings.
Unfortunately, its performance is not enough to satisfy professional dental photographers. The main disadvantage is the lack of matrix stabilization, which is essential when it comes to dental photography. What’s more, the Z50 has only one memory card slot and battery, that will last only for 300 photographs.
But, of course, this camera has some advantages. We like its magnesium frame, big and convenient grip, 3,2″ touchscreen and electronic viewer with 0,68x zoom and 2,36m resolution. The producer assures that the 209-point AF system will make us happy, especially it cooperates with the eye-tracking system.
Here is the rub. The biggest problem for professionals is the limited availability of DX lenses with Nikkor Z bayonet. Of course, one can use the adapters, but – as we all know – it’s not so comfortable. If you need a camera for professional photography, you might wait for a wider range of lenses.
Nikon Z50 will be available in November, and its price is a really nice surprise. The body will cost $859. Very reasonable price for a beginner.
We appreciate that Nikon refreshes its offer with this Z50. We see it as an equivalent of D7000, even though it looks as a smaller Z6 or Z7.
Nikon gives us a signal: the DSLR era is coming to an end. But is it really? Mirrorless cameras are of course smaller, lighter, more modern. But is it enough to push the good old DSLRs out of the market? After all, the optical viewfinder seems to be irreplaceable for some photographers.
How will this competition work out? Only time will tell.