Canon is reportedly developing 1.2x wide-angle super macro RF lenses, which could mark the introduction of a high-end tier of optic equipment.
In an exciting development for photographers using Canon's RF mount mirrorless cameras, the company is reportedly considering the development of new wide-angle macro lenses. According to a patent application (2025-124117), Canon is at the forefront of this potential innovation.
If successful, these new lenses could be the first wide-angle, full-frame RF lenses with autofocus and image stabilization (IS) to offer such high magnification, a first in the RF mount ecosystem. The patent application lists two lens specifications: a 21mm lens with a back focus distance of 17.14, and a 23mm lens with a back focus distance of 12.51.
True macro (1.0x magnification) refers to subjects appearing life-size on the sensor, providing detailed and lifelike images. The new lenses could deliver true 1.0x macro and 1.2x super macro magnification, offering even more detail and scale. This would be a significant step up from the current RF wide-angle macro options, which max out at 0.5x magnification.
Super macro (1.2x magnification) is particularly exciting as it allows for even closer focusing distances and greater detail in the captured images. This could open up a world of creative possibilities for photographers.
The patent application, named in the application for the wide macro lenses with 1.0x and 1.2x magnification, lists Canon as the developer. Based on the complexity described in the patent, these new lenses are expected to be of higher quality than the current STM offerings.
While there's no official announcement, no release date, or guarantee that the lenses will ever make it to production, many RF shooters have been waiting for such a more advanced, creative-friendly macro option. Nikon offers a true 1.0x macro lens (Z MC 50mm f/2.8), but it's not wide. Laowa offers ultra-wide manual focus macro lenses (15mm and 25mm), but they cater more to niche use.
If developed, these new lenses could fill a gap in the market for wide-angle macro lenses with full-frame coverage, autofocus, and image stabilization, a rarity in the industry. They could also represent a new tier of high-performance Canon macro lenses, potentially not full-blown L-series glass but still offering impressive optics and performance.
Kim Bunermann, a photographer, editor, and writer with a Master's degree in Photography and Media, who has worked at Digital Photographer and focuses on the art and science of photography, shares the excitement surrounding this potential development. "Wide-angle macro lenses allow for close-ups while capturing a lot of the surrounding environment," she says. "This could open up a whole new world of creative possibilities for photographers."
Only time will tell if these potential new lenses from Canon will become a reality. But for now, the anticipation is building among RF shooters who are eager for a more advanced, creative-friendly macro option.
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