Initial Impressions and Evaluation of Canon EOS R50 Camera
In the realm of underwater photography and video, Canon's EOS R50, R10, and R7 mirrorless cameras offer unique features and specifications that cater to various levels of enthusiasts. Here's a comprehensive comparison of these models to help you make an informed decision.
The Canon EOS R7, with its 32.5 MP APS-C sensor, 4K 60p video capabilities, and advanced IBIS, is the most suitable option for serious underwater photographers and videographers. Its superior image stabilization is crucial for capturing smooth underwater footage.
The EOS R10, while sharing many features with the R7, boasts a slightly lower megapixel count and a less robust build. Nonetheless, it is an excellent choice for enthusiasts who desire 4K 60p video and IBIS.
For beginners or casual shooters, the EOS R50 is a more entry-level option, offering 4K 30p video and digital IS. However, its electronic IS may be less effective for underwater work, where mechanical stabilization and faster autofocus are important.
### Housing Options
For professional or serious underwater use, custom housings are essential. Currently, Canon does not offer official underwater housings for the EOS R50, R10, or R7. However, third-party manufacturers like Nimar produce high-quality housings for Canon mirrorless cameras in the EOS R series, including advanced models like the R5, which shares lens and body compatibility with the R7.
The Nimar housing for the Canon EOS R5, for example, is rated to 98 ft (30 m) depth and features mechanical controls allowing full operation underwater. Similar housings exist or can be adapted for the R7, given the close relation in body and lens mounts. This makes the R7 very attractive for underwater shooters looking for durability and depth capability.
The R10 housing market is growing, with availability from several third-party brands, though the depth rating and control finesse might be lower than for the R7. The R50, being a newer and more entry-level model, currently has fewer tailored housing options, limiting its underwater use mostly to surface water sports or snorkeling rather than deep diving.
### Summary
In summary, for underwater videography requiring stability and image quality, the EOS R7 paired with a professional housing (e.g., from Nimar) is the best choice. The R10 is a capable mid-tier option, while the R50 is best suited for casual or surface water shooting with limited underwater capabilities.
Remember, no official Canon underwater housings are currently listed for these models, so third-party housings are the go-to solution. You should confirm compatibility with your exact camera model and local housing suppliers.
All three cameras can leverage Canon’s Camera Connect app for wireless control and file transfer, useful features for underwater photographers working with a dive buddy or surface support.
[1] The Canon EOS R50 does not have a mechanical front curtain, only a mechanical rear curtain. Burst shooting on the Canon EOS R50 goes up to 15 FPS with an electronic shutter. The Canon EOS R50 has a flash sync speed of 1/250 sec. The Canon EOS R50's autofocus system is similar to what is found in the flagship "R3" camera. Nauticam has developed a special housing for the Canon EOS R50 with an extremely small footprint. The Canon EOS R50 supports RF and RF-S Lenses. Canon has released the EOS R50, a 24.2 megapixel APS-C RF mirrorless camera for $680. The Canon EOS R50 has an ISO range of 100-12,800. The Canon EOS R50 has a battery life of 440 shots.
[2] Underwater videographers may prefer the Canon R10 over the R50 due to its capability of filming 4K/60p video. The Canon EOS R50 is smaller than the R10, measuring 116.3 x 85.5 x 68.8mm and weighing 375 grams. The Canon EOS R50, despite some limitations compared to the R10, is a versatile option due to current underwater housing options. Exposures can be uneven at shutter speeds above 1/4000 for the Canon EOS R50. The Nauticam R50 housing for the Canon EOS R50 has a fixed port with a bayonet mount that can be used with the Nauticam WWL-1 or WWL-C. The Canon EOS R50 has a sync speed of 1/250 sec. The Canon EOS R50 has a 24.2 MP APS-C CMOS Sensor. The Nauticam R50 housing for the Canon EOS R50 is available at Bluewater Photo. The Canon EOS R50 is expected to fit easily into Ikelite's smaller, DLM style housings. The Canon EOS R50 uses a UHS-1 SD Card Slot. The Canon EOS R50 is a compact and affordable camera body for those looking to upgrade from their compact underwater camera. The Canon EOS R50 can record UHD 4K/30p video. The Canon EOS R50 has dual pixel autofocus with subject tracking and low light AF down to -4 EV. The Canon EOS R50 has Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and a Multi-Function Shoe. The Canon EOS R50 can film 4K/30p video with no crop and oversampled from 6K.
- Given the absence of official Canon underwater housings for the EOS R50, a third-party housing, like the one offered by Nauticam with a small footprint, could be a viable solution for serious underwater photographers.
- If you're an underwater videographer, the Canon R10's ability to shoot 4K/60p video could be more appealing than the R50 due to its higher frame rate for smoother footage.
- For those interested in mirrorless photography, the Canon EOS R7, with its superior image stabilization and 4K 60p video capabilities, can be a great choice for compact and professional underwater photography and video.
- When pairing any of these Canon mirrorless cameras for underwater use, consider the Camera Connect app for wireless control and file transfer, beneficial for collaborative underwater photography sessions.
- Photography enthusiasts looking for an affordable upgrade from their compact underwater cameras may find the Canon EOS R50's compact size, UHD 4K/30p video recording, and dual pixel autofocus an attractive combination.
- To make the most of your underwater photography with the Canon EOS R50, explore housing options from manufacturers like Nauticam, Ikelite, or Bluewater Photo, which offer housings compatible with the EOS R50 and its RF and RF-S lenses.
