Canon launches the video-centric EOS/PowerShot V series, aiming to give content creators of all levels the tools they need to produce amazing work effortlessly. The series includes four products (so far, but we are sure Canon will soon add more): the PowerShot V1 point-and-shoot camera, the EOS R50 V mirrorless camera, the RF20mm F1.4 L VCM prime lens, and the RF-S14-30mm F4-6.3 IS STM zoom lens.
Designed specifically for video creation, the series features exceptional optics, enhanced portability, and remarkable ease of use for storytelling. It also includes features that video creators will particularly appreciate, such as smooth aperture adjustments, minimal focus breathing, dedicated video shooting modes, a vertical tripod mount, and more. Read on to explore the capabilities of the new Canon EOS/PowerShot V series.
Features of the EOS/PowerShot V-series
- PowerShot V1: point-and-shoot camera with built-in 16-50mm F2.8-4.5 wide-angle zoom lens, 1.4-type 22.3MP image sensor, and Dual Pixel CMOS AF II, DIGIC X image processor
- EOS R50 V: mirrorless camera with 24.2 MP APS-C CMOS image sensor, DIGIC X image processor, 4K video resolution, RAW support for still images, RF Mount
- RF20mm F1.4 L VCM: prime lens with 20mm focal length, f/1.4 maximum aperture, fast and silent Voice Coil Motor autofocus
- RF-S14-30mm F4-6.3 IS STM: zoom lens with a 14 – 30 mm focal length range, f/4 – f/6.3 maximum aperture range, 10 elements in 9 groups with 7 aperture blades, RF Mount
What’s New About the EOS/PowerShot V-series?
Canon’s new video-centric approach offers equal opportunities for capturing stunning still images and videos. Creators no longer have to switch gear and can transition smoothly from one type of content to another. The immediate benefit is a more effortless and streamlined workflow, but many advantages follow. Optical performance is a top priority. Canon doesn’t compromise image quality, allowing users to shoot high-resolution photos and videos while maintaining a consistent aesthetic between mixed media. Here are the features that best showcase this series:
PowerShot V1 Camera
The PowerShot V1 is a powerful point-and-shoot camera with a 1.4-type 22.3MP CMOS sensor and a wide-angle zoom lens. The 16-50mm focal length range provides enough room for creativity, and the wide f/2.8 maximum aperture at the wide-angle setting helps to record bright videos even in less-than-perfect lighting conditions.
The camera features built-in image stabilization, a built-in 3-stop ND filter, and a cooling fan that allows it to record 4K videos at 60fps for as long as you want. It has dedicated video modes, such as close-up movie mode and three custom movie modes, and it supports Canon Log 3 to let you record videos with a wide dynamic range and 10-bit color depth. There isn’t much more one can ask from a point-and-shoot camera.
EOS R50 V Camera
The EOS R50 V is a mirrorless camera with interchangeable lenses (supports RF and RF-S lenses). It features an impressive 24MP APS-C CMOS sensor and Canon’s DIGIC X image processor and can record videos up to 4K Crop 59.94p, 4K 29.97p full-width, and Full-HD full-width 119.8p. Shooting vertically is effortless, thanks to its Vertical Video tripod mount and Front Record button. Moreover, the camera senses when you shoot vertically and rotates the shooting information so you can still read it.
Advanced video features such as Canon Log 3, HLG, PQ, 709 Recording, False Color, and Zebras make video creators very happy. At the same time, photo and video creators benefit from an outstanding autofocus system with people, animal, and vehicle detection and Dual Pixel CMOS AF II tracking.
RF20mm F1.4 L VCM Lens
The RF20mm f1.4 VCM is a hybrid lens with a wide-angle 20mm focal length and a compact and lightweight design. It has a wide maximum aperture for impeccable image quality in low light conditions and vivid colors. The optical design includes two aspherical elements, one Super UD element, two UD elements, and BR optics (Blue Spectrum Refractive Optics) to minimize chromatic aberration, dust and weather-resistant coatings, and ASC (AirSphere Coating) to reduce ghosting.
Two focus motors, a Nano USM and a VCM (Voice Coil Motor), provide fast and silent focusing. The manual iris control ring lets you change the aperture during video capture without anyone noticing. Focusing breathing is kept at a minimum. Together, these features produce a powerful and versatile lens that becomes a trustworthy companion for any photo or video project.
RF-S14-30mm F4-6.3 IS STM Lens
The RF-S14-30mm F4-6.3 IS STM is a zoom lens with high optical performance and plenty of versatility. It is reliable, fast, and silent. The focal length covers wide-angle perspectives, and the Power Zoom feature helps you make the most of it by initiating a smooth and customizable multi-speed powered zoom.
The lens features two aspherical elements and one UD element for edge-to-edge clarity and minimum aberrations. To avoid camera shake blur, it has built-in image stabilization with 5.0 stops of shake reduction.
Regarding focusing, the RF-S14-30mm F4-6.3 IS STM features a leadscrew-type STM focus drive system for quiet and smooth autofocus during video capture. It can focus as close as 15 cm (5.9 inches), so don’t exclude close-up shots.
Who Should Buy These Cameras and Lenses?
Canon designed the EOS/PowerShot V-series for creators who capture photographs and videos simultaneously. Furthermore, the series addresses all levels of expertise and artistic genres.
The PowerShot V1, for instance, is great for vlogging, documenting outdoor adventures and travels, broadcasting, and creating multimedia content.
The EOS R50 V, whether with the RF-S14-30mm F4-6.3 IS STM or the RF20mm f1.4 VCM, opens the door to professional video production and gives you complete control over the technical and artistic aspects. However, Canon designed these models to be easy to use, perfectly compatible and connected, portable, and versatile. From dedicated video modes to built-in live-streaming modes and customizable functions, they aim to lift the weight of the technical part and allow you to focus on the artistic part.
Comparable Canon Cameras and Lenses
The new EOS/PowerShot V-series takes what’s best from the current PowerShot, EOS R, and RF lines and delivers unique models that suit a particular type of user. By centering the series on video and multimedia production, Canon acknowledges the latest changes in visual arts.
The new cameras and lenses maintain the compact and lightweight design, the high optical performance, and the advanced autofocus systems we’ve seen in the previous series. However, they bring redesigned user interfaces and new functionalities that make any content creator feel comfortable. Every detail, from the focal length range of the lenses to predefined and customizable video modes, supports the creator’s professional journey and growth.
Final Thoughts
Either the PowerShot V1 point-and-shoot camera by itself or the EOS R50 V mirrorless camera with the RF20mm F1.4 L VCM prime lens or the RF-S14-30mm F4-6.3 IS STM zoom lens is a good choice for a multimedia creator looking for gear that adapts to their needs rather than adapting themselves to the available gear. These are versatile, all-in-one solutions with exquisite optical characteristics. They are also worry-free, ready to connect and share your work, robust, and beautiful. Overall, these are the long-term partners of your creativity.
