Canon Shows Off RF 10-20mm Full-Frame Zoom
Canon's newest zoom lens addresses one of the long-running problems with wide-angle photography: lens size. Zooms that cover an extreme angle are often oversized. The RF 10-20mm F4 L IS STM bucks that trend—at around 4.4 by 3.3 inches (HD) and 1.3 pounds it's half the weight of the EF 11-24mm F4 L USM for SLRs, with optics that see 25% percent more of a scene.
Like the other major players in the photo industry, Canon's camera business is now centered around mirrorless cameras, not SLRs. Models in its EOS R line place the image sensor right behind the lens mount, a technical detail that makes it easier for engineers to make optical formulas that see a broad view. We've already seen other camera makers use this to their advantage, the Sony FE 12-24mm F2.8 GM is the obvious example.
Canon opted for a wider angle of view and F4 optics over making an extremely wide F2.8. At 10mm, a lens covers about a 50% broader view than at 12mm, something you can use to your advantage to get landscapes with an epic view or unique perspectives on interiors. The RF 10-20mm draws scenes with a rectilinear project too, so it's something you can use for real estate or architecture. This isn't a fish-eye like the old EF 8-15mm zoom for SLRs.
Image stabilization is included in-lens, even though Canon puts in-body stabilization in most of its full-frame cameras. It's not something we usually think of as necessary for a wide lens, it's easier to get away with a lengthy shutter speed boosted by IBIS. Canon tells us it puts IS in this lens to improve corner performance in these situations, as IBIS alone may smear during a long exposure. A rear filter hold is included so you can add a gel neutral density; this is necessary, as the bulbous front
Read more on pcmag.com
