If you’re into dental photography—whether capturing dental intraoral photography or perfecting your dental digital photography techniques—you know how critical good lighting is. But does investing in a high-end flash system like Canon’s always make sense? At $229 (compared to $1099 for the Canon Speedlite EL-1), the Godox V1 Flash offers a compelling and cost-effective alternative. Curious about Canon’s latest flash system? Check out our article about theirrumored hybrid Speedlite and its potential to revolutionize dental photography.
When it comes to professional dental photography, Canon flash systems are often considered the gold standard. However, their premium price can make them inaccessible for some users. The Godox V1 Flash provides comparable features—such as high-speed sync, excellent light quality, and advanced wireless connectivity—at a fraction of the cost.
Does this mean you’re sacrificing quality for affordability? Let’s explore.
At $229, the Godox V1 Flash is significantly more affordable than many Canon flashes. This makes it an excellent option for dental professionals seeking a cost-effective yet high-performing lighting solution.
The round flash head delivers soft, even light. Its ability to tilt, rotate, and zoom ensures flexibility for capturing professional-grade images, whether you’re photographing close-ups of dental work or portraits of patients. It’s also perfect for dual-flash setups with modifiers, ideal for advanced intraoral and portraiture work.
With 480 full-power flashes per charge, the Godox V1 ensures you can get through even the busiest day without worrying about running out of power. This reliability is especially valuable for lengthy dental photo sessions.
Consider these questions:
If your answer is “yes” to any of these, the Godox V1 Flash could be the ideal solution. Combining performance, flexibility, and affordability, it’s a fantastic choice for dental professionals and enthusiasts looking to elevate their dental photography results without overspending.
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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!
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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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.
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!
What a news from Venus Optics! The Laowa 85mm f/5.6 2x Ultra Macro APO it launched last year for Nikon Z, Canon RF, Sony E, and Leica M mounts is being released for Leica L-Mount. This means we can purchase the Smallest 2x Macro for Any Full Frame Camera!
Please read more about the lens itself here!
Just a quick reminder: Venus Optics says that the lens can focus from infinity to 2x magnification and features a minimum focusing distance of 6.31-inches. At 2x magnification, small objects that are normally difficult to see are captured with considerable detail. Moreover, the lens is small and light which means that it is more flexible and easier to use in a variety of shooting situations. For us, dental photographers, this lens will be comfortable while shooting intraoral pictures, with high quality of details guaranteed.
The lens features three extra-low dispersion elements that eliminate color fringing at both in-focus and out-of-focus areas, which it claims allows the lens to render magnified photos with no chromatic aberration. The front element does not extend outwards when focus is changed which avoids collision with subjects and prevents dust from entering the lens.
The Laowa 85mm f/5.6 2x Ultra Macro APO is, according to Venus Optics, the smallest 2x macro lens available for full-frame cameras. It weighs 259 grams and is 3.18-inches long by 2.08-inches wide.
The new L-mount option for the Laowa 85mm f/5.6 2x Ultra Macro APO is available for $450.
What a news for dental photography industry!
Venus Optics has just announced the Laowa 85mm f/5.6 2x Ultra Macro APO. It is claimed to be the smallest 2x macro for any full-frame camera.
It works with Nikon Z, Canon RF, Sony E and Leica M mounts.
This light lens is perfect for light mirrorless cameras used in dental digital photography, especially if you’re not a fan of heavy equipment. What’s more, with its 2x magnification will be comfortable to use in various dental photography circumstances. We’re pretty sure it will prove itself in many situations, e.g. preparing your dental portfolio or extracting very small details, so important in our practice.
Check out some photos made with the new lens:
The Venus Optics Laowa 85mm f/5.6 2x Ultra Macro APO is available for $499.
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DSD is a unique dental treatment planning tool that strengthens a dental provider’s diagnostic vision, enhances predictability, and improves communication between dental providers and their patients. A treatment plan is completely based on a thorough analysis of the patient’s dental and facial proportions.
In this online course our expert and new Giant Bartosz Cerkaski (the Vice President of Polish Academy of Esthetic Dentistry (PASE) and the founder of DSD Academy in Poland) will show you the Digital Smile Design Workflow, step by step. Bartosz Cerkaski has won The Best DSD Instructor Award in 2018.
We’ve prepared for you a series of lessons: professional and detailed. You can use your new knowledge in dentral intraoral photography and becoming a dental photography master.
You can choose the most important part for you or watch the whole lesson. Remember: your subscription gives you a 24/7 access to our online platform.
We can guarantee: you will benefit from it!
These are the lessons we’ve prepared for you:
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!
ImagenAI has announced its AI-powered photo editing desktop app for Adobe Lightroom workflows.
Its artificial intelligence’s aim is to learn your personalized editing style. In your AI profile the app analyzes each image and predicts how you will edit and apply it in a matter of seconds.
How should it be used? First, you need to teach the app your particular editing style. ImagenAI asks for 5,000 or more of your previously edited photos in a Lightroom catalog, necessary to learn your editing style. Remember: the larger the sample size provided, the more accurate a profile it can generate. The system training will take a few days, and it will inform you via e-mail about the next steps to take. Thanks to using only artificial intelligence, the app promises to work much faster than any other tool that needs the human element.
Watch this video:
The application works on both PC and Mac and is free to try for your first 1000 images. After this limit, you can choose to cancel or to sign up for the service on a $7 monthly subscription plus a “pay-per-use” fee that scales down in cost the more images you send through per month.
Will this app help dental photographers in their everyday work? As soon as we can check this, we’ll let you know!
The emergence of artificial intelligence has made itself more significant over the last few years: Adobe, Skylum and Canon have their own tools and it seems like there will be more.
Check out our online course on postproduction!
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!
Nikon has officially announced the development of the Z9.
The new Z9 will:
The image accompanying the announcement shows a camera larger than the Z6/Z7 II, with what appears to be an integrated vertical grip.
The company is saying that it promises the Z9 will bring together Nikon’s set of “groundbreaking technologies” to deliver “the best still and video performance in Nikon 
history“.
“The Z9 embodies ultimate usability as a tool,” Nikon writes. “Offering users an unprecedented imaging experience from capture to workflow exceeding that of previous digital-SLR and mirrorless cameras.”
The rumor also stated that the camera was tested with a range of different megapixel sensors from 45-megapixels to a 60-megapixel version. Other features rumored include 20 frames per second through a blackout-free EVF (like the Sony Alpha 1 and Alpha 9 series), a 16-bit RAW option, a new user interface, and improved noise levels and better dynamic range.
Nikon Rumors claims the camera is expected to be released in the fall of 2021. Its price is rumoured to be something around $6,000 – $7,000.
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What lenses are the best for Intraoral Photography?
These are some of the topics explored in our dental digital photography course:
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