Canon RF 135mm F1.8 L IS USM and Speedlite EL-5 launched

To go with the new full-frame camera EOS R6 Mark II, Canon has also introduced a new fast portrait lens and a clip-on flash. They go by the names Canon RF 135mm F1.8 L IS USM and Speedlite EL-5.

Canon RF 135mm F1.8 L IS USM in detail

The Canon RF 135mm F1.8 L IS USM is an extremely fast telephoto lens that is said to be particularly suitable for portraits. Thanks to its fast f/1.8 aperture and built-in optical image stabilizer, the RF 135mm F1.8 L IS USM allows for razor-sharp shots with beautiful bokeh.

The long focal length naturally allows for a greater distance to the subject than the classic 85mm. According to the manufacturer, this should lead to a very natural effect in portrait views and full-body shots.

With a closest focusing distance of only about 0.7 m and a magnification of 0.26x, the RF 135mm F1.8 L IS USM is also suitable for detailed shots. An optical image stabilizer is also integrated, which is supposed to compensate up to 5.5 exposure stops. Together with a corresponding camera, even up to 8 exposure stops can be compensated.

The new lens is also said to offer excellent sharpness, both in the center and at the edges. Canon relies on 9 aperture blades with a fast Nano USM autofocus motor. This works with Canon’s Deep Learning AF of corresponding cameras to always keep the eye in focus.

At 935 grams, the lens is not exactly a lightweight, measuring 89.2 mm in diameter and 130.3 mm in length. A control ring also allows various settings such as exposure time, aperture or ISO value to be individually adjusted directly on the lens.

Speedlite EL-5: Powerful clip-on flash

With the Speedlite EL-5, Canon also offers a new, powerful clip-on flash. With a guide number of 60 and a blazingly fast flash recycle time of 0.1-1.2 seconds, images can be brightened quickly.

The LP-EL battery provides ample power for 85 consecutive full-power flash firings – with one full charge lasting for a total of 350 flash firings. Also possible is a manual setting reducing the flash output to 1/1,024 power.

As Canon’s first Speedlite for the multi-function accessory shoe of the latest EOS R series cameras, the Speedlite EL-5 features gold-plated contacts that ensure a reliable connection to the camera and improved communication. A passive cooling system also ensures less heat buildup during long uses and hot days.

Designed for professional workflows, it offers a range of features, including wireless radio control of up to 15 additional Speedlites and a Camera Link function that allows it to trigger external cameras connected to those Speedlites.

Prices and Availability

Both of Canon’s new products won’t make their way into stores until next year. First up is the RF 135mm F1.8 L IS USM, which is scheduled to go on sale in January 2023 at an MSRP of €2,699.00.

The Speedlite EL-5 is expected to follow in March at a price of €499.00. For more details, visit the product websites of the lens and of the Speedlite EL-5.