Canon has unveiled the EOS R6 Mark III, its latest versatile full-frame mirrorless camera designed for both photography and videography enthusiasts. This new model boasts a 32.5-megapixel sensor, enhanced autofocus capabilities, and the ability to record up to 7K video. A notable upgrade includes a dual-card system featuring a quicker CFexpress Type B slot. The camera is scheduled for release on November 25th, with a price tag of $2,799 for the body alone. It will also be available in bundles with the RF 24-105mm STM lens for $3,149 or the RF 24-105mm L lens for $4,049.

The R6 series caters to a broad range of users who may not require the 45-megapixel resolution of the more expensive EOS R5 Mark II, nor wish to pay over $4,000 for just the body. The R6 Mark III, however, is far from basic, increasing its resolution from the previous model’s 24 megapixels to 32.5 megapixels. It also supports superior video recording capabilities, allowing for 4K/120p and 7K/60p RAW footage, with full corner-to-corner open gate filming for additional cropping options.

Enhanced video features include more gamma settings, such as Canon’s Log 2 mode and customizable looks. Video enthusiasts will appreciate the addition of a tally lamp for easy filming status visibility and the transition from a Micro HDMI to a full-size Type A HDMI port. The camera’s autofocus system has improved too, now allowing users to register a person’s face to ensure they remain the priority during continuous tracking.

A potentially divisive change is Canon’s shift from dual SD card slots in the R6 Mark II to a mixed configuration in the Mark III, featuring one CFexpress Type B slot and one SD slot. CFexpress offers faster speeds, contributing to the camera’s ability to capture extended image bursts without losing shooting speed, even at higher resolutions. However, CFexpress cards are generally more expensive, and managing different card formats can be inconvenient. Unlike CFexpress Type A, Type B slots do not accommodate SD cards, a feature found in Sony’s combo slots.

Accompanying the launch of the EOS R6 Mark III is Canon’s innovative RF 45mm f/1.2 STM lens. This compact prime lens features a bright maximum aperture, ideal for low-light photography and achieving a shallow depth of field. Remarkably affordable at $469.99, it is expected to ship in early December. Full-frame autofocusing lenses with f/1.2 apertures typically cost over $1,500, even from third-party manufacturers like Sigma, making Canon’s offering under $500 quite noteworthy.

It should be noted that the lens is not an L-series model, so it lacks weather sealing, and the lens hood is sold separately for $59.99. According to Drew MacCallum, a representative from Canon USA, the lens relies on in-camera corrections for image quality, a factor contributing to its lower price. Despite this, as an admirer of the Sony FE 50mm f/1.2, I am eager to see more affordable f/1.2 lenses in the market.