Gear

Canon R1: The Flagship Camera Every Pro Photographer Needs

The Canon R1 introduces ground-breaking advancements tailored for professionals, setting new benchmarks in camera technology, with innovative features designed to enhance performance in various demanding fields, from sports photography to video production.

At the heart of the Canon R1 lies its new 24.2MP full-frame, back-illuminated, stacked Dual Pixel CMOS AF sensor and new DIGIC Accelerator and the existing DIGIC X processor.

Together, they form an advanced image processing system that is not only capable of handling large volumes of data at high speeds, but also improves Auto Focus (AF) capabilities while enhancing image quality through advanced noise reduction techniques previously only available via PC software.

The enhanced autofocus system in the EOS R1 utilizes a combination of deep learning technology and the new image processing system to achieve high-speed and high-accuracy subject recognition.


View Canon EOS R1 Pricing and Availability at Vistek


A new AF “Action Priority” function recognizes subject movement, rapidly analyzes the status, and adjusts the AF frame instantly during the type of unpredictable moments that commonly occurs in sports photography, helping to ensure that the main subject is continually tracked, even if obstructed momentarily.

Additionally, the Cross-type AF system increases accuracy in challenging conditions, such as low contrast or complex backgrounds.

The EOS R1 also improves upon the Eye Control AF technology first seen in the EOS R3, featuring a larger eye detection area and enhanced detection algorithm that offers an even more intuitive and faster focusing system.

If you aren’t familiar, the way Eye Control AF works is that once it has been calibrated to the photographer’s eye, the system will track where the photographer is looking and automatically adjust the focus point.



With an impressive continuous shooting rate of up to 30 frames per second (in electronic shutter mode), the EOS R1 is ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects.

Thanks to its enhanced buffer capacity and buffer size, the R1 allows photographers to take and process numerous high-resolution images in burst mode without slowing down.

The electronic shutter operates silently, making it perfect for situations where noise could be disruptive, such as during wildlife shoots or in quiet indoor events, and with a top shooting speed of 12 FPS, the mechanical shutter is designed for longevity and reliability under frequent use.

Video Features

The Canon R1 offers a robust array of features that cater to professional filmmakers and videographers, including the ability to record 6K RAW up to 60 fps and 4K MP4 up to 120 fps footage.

Utilizing the full-width of the sensor, the EOS R1 allows for 6K oversampling that renders exceptionally detailed and sharp footage.

For higher frame rate options, the EOS R1 offers 4K recording at 120 fps and Full HD at 240 fps, suitable for slow-motion effects and capturing fast action with clarity.

Support for Canon’s C-Log2 and C-Log3 colour profiles is also included allowing for up to 10-bit capture, offering expanded dynamic range and greater flexibility in post-production colour grading.

The Canon R1 also incorporates advanced image stabilization technologies offering up to 8.5 stops of shake reduction with compatible RF lenses.

Design and Build

With a body that is larger than its predecessors, the EOS R1 features better ergonomics allowing for easier access to the controls and better hold.

A robust, integrated vertical grip features a new texture and is designed to enhance handling, (especially when paired with large sports lenses like the RF 600mm f/4L IS USM and RF 400mm f/2.8 IS USM) helping to ensure the camera remains balanced during extended shooting sessions.

The OLED electronic viewfinder (EVF) features a magnification of 0.9x and a high resolution of 9.44 million dots, supported by a refresh rate of 120fps.

Additionally, the R1 sports a 3.2-inch LCD screen with 2.1 million dots, offering flexibility with its articulating design that can be flipped out, rotated, and folded against the camera body for protection.

There are two CFexpress 2.0 Type B card slots, as well as a full-size HDMI port and independent mic and headphone jacks.

Finally, the EOS R1 is built to withstand severe weather conditions and rough handling, featuring extensive gaskets and O-rings that seal the magnesium-alloy body from all angles, ensuring it remains dust and rain-proof.