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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If you’re looking for a dental photography lens to make your portrait and intraoral photos even better, it’s time to take some new players under consideration. Warning: you might be shocked!
For the longest time, Canon, Nikon and Sony were the kings of lenses and we, dental photographers, couldn’t imagine working in our dental offices without them. But things change! In the last few years Sigma and Tamron have not only released some seriously shout-worthy lenses, but they’re often a lot more affordable than first-party equivalents.
And while Canon stays on top of the sales rank, the second and third place are pretty surprising.
Have you seen our Online Course: Lenses?
From the latest Japanese data there is just 3.3% separating the top 5 market shareholders in the interchangeable lens market, with Canon in first place (17.1%), Sigma in second (16%), Tamron coming in third (15.1%) followed by Sony in fourth (14.2%) and finally Nikon in fifth (13.8%).
The results show that the interchangeable lens market is booming, that the popular manufacturers aren’t as powerful as they used to be and that a famous name doesn’t mean an obvious success.
And, what’s more, cameras with interchangeable lenses are gaining in popularity and this is living proof of the fact that smartphones aren’t enough. Especially in dental digital photography.
Check out what the Sigma’s CEO said about their new products!
It’s our mission as a camera manufacturer to figure out ways to make any camera system easier and more comfortable to operate. So, in terms of the eye control system, or eye-controlled focus, we intend to deploy this to various other models as well. At the same time, we’d like to improve the performance and usability. – says Canon management at the CP+ Expo in Japan.
For us, dental photographers, it can be a groundbreaking feature. Taking intraoral photos means adjusting the focus more and more precisely. To be honest, it takes years of practice to master such conditions. With the eye-controlled AF digital dental photography and intraoral photography will become easier and more approachable.
The feature is already available in the R3, but for a dental digital camera, it’s quite expensive. We’re really happy to hear that every dental photographer, regardless of their cameras’ price, will be able to use this feature.
We’re just hoping it will be possible sooner rather than later!
As usual, we’ll keep you posted. Stay with us for more dental photography news!
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
Check out our online Dental Photography Flashes course!
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.
You’re a beginner in dental photography? No worries! Check out our online Dental Photography Fundamentals online course!
How to describe it in one sentence? This is EOS R6 II tech in a smaller, compact body. But there’s more to know.
Canon says this full-frame mirrorless camera is for amateur photographers, but we’re always curious if the new “baby” can work in dental or intraoral photography. 24-megapixel sensor, Dual Pixel AF, the DIGIC X processor, AI-driven subject recognition – we know them already from EOS R6 II, but thanks to the lighter body the EOS R8’s price is much more friendly. And we must say, the sensor and processor are quite impressive for the price.
The camera weighs just over a pound (461 grams) with a battery, SD card, and no battery cap. It measures 5.22 x 3.39 x 2.76 inches (132.5 x 86.1 x 70.0 millimeters). There’s also a responsive and comfortable vari-angle touchscreen. The camera’s weight can be a big advantage for those of you who get easily tired with heavy dental cameras, we’re pretty sure female dental photographers will also appreciate this feature. On the other hand, heavy lenses and light bodies won’t provide proper balance, so, if you’re strong enough, we’d recommend choosing a more massive camera.
One SD card slot isn’t a huge issue, but something you’ll need to get used to. Changing the card won’t take long, after all!
The HDR feature is always important for dental photographers: it’s helpful when it comes to spot the details on a dental photo.
The control layout is simplified in this smaller body. You don’t get a joystick, there’s a simple D-pad rather than a rear wheel, and there are less buttons to customize. Some of the functions are harder to find, if you like to have them all at hand, take this under consideration
Dual Pixel CMOS II AF with tracking AF available for all modes will be useful while taking intraoral photos. But there’s more: Flexible AF can be paired with Eye Tracking and this feature is not to be underestimated when it comes to portrait shooting.
The camera uses a smaller battery which is also found on the Canon R50. Canon did not provide CIPA ratings for the battery in the R8, though in PetaPixel’s testing, the battery ran out before a full day of mixed video and still shooting.
Usual connection options are available: a multi-function shoe for compatibility with a range of accessories including external flash, 2.4GHz wireless, Bluetooth 4.2, and MFI for direct connection with an Apple device, in addition to Android devices.
We’re not professional video makers, but let’s notice the possibility of recording 4K UHD at 60p for up to 30 minutes.
The camera doesn’t have in-body image stabilization (IBIS) which can cause a difficulty while macro shooting – a heavy 180 mm lens can upset the balance. If you’re taking photos under continuous light, the lack of IBIS can be even more noticeable.
Body alone, the R8 will cost $1,500. The kit with the R8 and 24-50mm are set to be priced at $1,700.
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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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As we predict – thanks to many trade rumors – Canon is about to announce the Canon EOS R7 and Canon EOS R10, two mirrorless models with APS-C sensors.
But there’s more. Various sources say that these new models could be direct replacement for the Canon EOS 7D Mark II and Canon EOS 90D. That’s all according to news site CanonWatch, who think we could have an official announcement as soon as 24 May! The EOS R7 was thought to be a replacement for the Canon EOS 7D line, as Canon has been focusing on its EOS R line-up for some time, and a mirrorless version of the EOS 7D II could definitely attract dental photographers who want the reach of an APS-C sensor (and a more affordable body).
Will the new EOS R7 and EOS R10 be the right choice for dental photographers?
EOS R7: Specs
What do the rumors say? EOS R7’s technical specs include a 32.5-MP APS-C sensor with Dual Pixel CMOS Autofocus, a 15-30fps continuous shooting speed, 4K video recording at 60/50fps (NTSC/PAL), 1080p recording at 120/100fps, and In-Body Image Stabilization.
We can be sure: such specs seem really enough for a dental photographer.
EOS R10: Is it happening at all?
We’re still not sure whether the EOS R10 is a real thing. None of these reports have been officially commented on by Canon itself.
But – if it is true – Canon Rumors has listed a few possible specs for the EOS R10, which if true, could make the EOS M camera line seem redundant. These include a 24.2MP sensor, 15-23fps (using the mechanical/electronic shutter), and 1x UHS-II SD card slot. These are more modest than the EOS R7, and suggest that the EOS R10 could be pitched as the entry-level RF Mount camera with an APS-C image sensor.
If CanonWatch has a good source, we only need to wait a few days and everything should be clear! Stay tuned, we’ll keep you posted.
And if you want to know more about the mirrorless cameras, feel free to register and watch our DSLR vs Mirrorless online course. It won’t cost you a thing!
We’ve just informed you about the new EOS R3, top new class camera, and now we can show you even more!
While Canon still has not revealed pricing or availability for the camera, it has published new information on how the camera can be expected to function. Moreover, the company published a set of images of the camera with and without RF lenses attached: what do you think about it?
But what is important to us? Of course, its features that can be useful in dental photography. Let’s take a look.
As for the EOS R3’s features, here is all we know:
Having said all this, Canon is still silent about the R3’s release date and/or price. We will keep you posted!
And if you’re looking for a professional, honest online dental photography course, you can’t miss our Studio Light in Dental Office lessons!
Well, that’s unexpected!
A Canon EOS R5 user has reported a replicable glitch that appears to be caused by using the camera’s in-body image stabilization which results in blurry photographs.
The problem occured while shooting in a mode where in-body image stabilization (IBIS) is set to “always on.” What happened?
Straight from the horse’s mouth: while shooting, the first picture produced in the sequence is significantly more blurry than any pictures thereafter. However, if the shutter continues to be half-pressed, while in single or continuous autofocus, photographs produced come out just fine.
This stands in the opposite of Canon’s introducing EOS R5 and R6 cameras as the “first Canon cameras with 5-axis in-body” IBIS, which can “deliver an industry-leading 8-stops of IS when the cameras are paired with certain lenses“.
Canon responded that its technical team is currently investigating the issue.
We’re waiting for the next steps of this issue and will keep you posted.
Check out more details on the R5 here!
We’ve got some news for dental photographers who are planning to buy Canon DSLR lens: you might need to hurry up!
Rumors say, five popular lenses have been marked as “no longer available” at some retailers including popular optics like the 85mm f/1.2L USM II and the 70-200mm f/4L IS USM II. Luckily for us, working in dental photography industry, only the 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM will be withdrawn.
But what’s happening here? Back in 2020, as we reported, Canon stated that it would be ignoring its EF lineup to focus entirely on RF announcements. And as we couldn’t believe it then, it seems pretty official now.
The company reportedly started discontinuing lenses in February with the EF 40mm f/2.8 STM. That list has been growing at a surprising pace, with the 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM, 70-200mm f/4 L IS USM II, 85mm f/1.2L USM II, and 200mm f/2L I USM all joining inside the last two months.
Some of the lenses are still available, but only until they’re in stock. And will it influence us, dental photographers? We will keep you posted!
Venus Optics has announced that the 100mm f/2.8 2x Ultra Macro lens, originally announced in 2018, is now available for Canon EF with a stepless aperture ring and finally on Pentax K.
The news comes months after giving the lens the Nikon Z and Canon RF’s mounts.
This announcement makes for two different versions of the optic available for Canon EF.
Laowa says that the 100mm f/2.8 2x Ultra Macro APO in Pentax-K mount is assembled with the automatic aperture coupling lever, which allows aperture control via the body of the camera. You can either use the manual aperture ring or park the focusing ring at the “A” symbol and adjust the aperture via the camera. Exif data would be stored in the metadata as well.
Venus Optics had previously launched an EF version of the lens with automatic aperture control via the camera, but this iteration brings a stepless aperture ring for users. “Stepless aperture control is one of the most advantageous and essential features for videography. It allows a smooth transition between each aperture level,” Venus writes in the press release.
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The Laowa 100mm f/2.8 2x Ultra Macro is available for $449 in some iteration on seven mounts.
Sample images:
With an asking price of $1,100/£1249, the EL-1 is twice the price of Canon’s previous top Speedlite, the Canon Speedlite 600EX II-RT. We must say: that is quite expensive!
What features for pro photographers does it offer?
Check out or online training: flashes in dental photography!
It looks like Canon has prepared something for us, dental photographers. This flash can easily replace a monolight in dental office and we would recommend it because:
We don’t like its price so much though, but we do understand that quality costs. One may consider buying PROFOTO A1X or A10 flashlight with way more accessories in the same price. But, as we predict, Canon and others will develop the range of their accessories and light modifiers.
We look forward to these next releases!
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.
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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?