Canon RF lenses have been pretty great for many users. While the company has announced multiple models, it has yet to introduce certain focal ranges that can benefit users. For instance, Canon is yet to launch tilt-shift lenses for the mirrorless mount, as well as more macro lenses. According to a new report, Canon will bridge the gap with the launch of two new models. Have a look.
A New 100mm Lens?
Per Canon Rumors, the company is working on two new lenses. One is 100mm f1.4, which has been a part of patent application 2026034653. A 100mm focal length has been important at Canon, with the EF 100mm f2 being a beloved lens introduced in 1991. The RF mount has a 100mm option, but it is 100mm f2.8 L IS Macro, which is a very different optic. Here’s its specs:
- Focal length: 97.50mm
- F-number: f/1.46
- Half angle of view: 12.51°
- Image height: 21.64mm
- Lens length: 125.50mm (calculated physical length: 112.5mm)
- Back focus distance: 13.00mm
The patent showcases two separate element groups that move during focus, which is what the Voice Coil Motor (VCM) is known for. This was also seen in models such as 85mm f1.2 L and 135mm f1.8 L. This is also a clear L design and is not a version of the affordable 100mm f2. This option will be great, especially for those creating portraits or working on weddings and events assignments.
But since this is a patent, we will have to wait and see whether it becomes a reality soon. But given the performance of other portrait lenses such as the 135mm, a 100mm could sit comfortably between this and the 85mm for those who want some reach and a wide aperture. As we said in the review of 135mm:
It’s not a lens that you’d use all the time. However, it’s hard to take bad photos with it when you use it.
Given the $2000 price point, the 135mm is great, but the 100mm could be priced slightly higher, since it has a larger aperture. Either way, a 100mm seems like a great addition for those who want an in-between option for their needs.
Realistically, this lens could really become a reality. Canon has made a 200mm f1.8 many years ago in the past. And in more recent times, Sigma and Nikon both made 105mm f1.4 lenses.
What About A Macro Lens?
In another article, Canon Rumors suggested that the company may be working on a new macro lens with a focal range longer than 100mm. It is suggested that the lens may even cover a range from standard 1:1 macro to higher magnifications.
The EF 180mm f3.5 L, for instance, has been a favorite of many macro photographers who want more working distance. The focal range helps the lens to move away from the subject, which is needed for documenting subjects such as insects, flowers, or bugs. MP-E 65mm f2.8 1-5x and the EF 180mm f3.5L was a lens that offered magnification up to 5:1, but it did so through manual focus. While both lenses have been discontinued, the only option RF users have is the 100mm f2.8 L.
In this regard, a new RF lens could be helpful, and the addition of autofocus could also be beneficial. A focal length of around 180-200mm f4 seems plausible, but there are no confirmations yet.
Most importantly, what the industry really needs these days are unique lenses that are really doing something that hasn’t been done before in a way that’s notable.
Which Lenses Offer These Focal Ranges?
The 100mm portrait lens has not yet been released for the RF mount, and the closest option they offer is the 85mm f1.4 Art (available only for EF mount). There is Tamrom that offers 90mm with no equivalent for RF. The same goes for the Laowa 100mm f2.8, which offers 2:1 magnification. There is the Irix 150mm f2.8 Dragonfly Macro for RF, which is one of the few options from third-party lens makers.
Since Canon does not allow third-party lens compatibility with its mount, Canon users have no other option but to rely on and wait for Canon’s own version. Or, adapt an older EF lens with an adapter.
Overall, both the 100mm and the 5:1 macro are options that users may benefit from, if they offer great features at a decent price point. Otherwise, people will rely on existing options until something better comes along.