Canon R8 Reviews
great compact full frame setup
By Thomas
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2023-09-20
The R8 is one of the smallest full frame cameras, and it's more comfortable to use than most of them. That's because the built-in grip is substantial enough to balance even mid-sized lenses, and the controls aren't too cramped. The image quality and the autofocus are absolutely superb. The 24-50 lens is pretty small and decent for what it is. It takes ok pictures in non-challenging lighting, but really its main selling point is that it's very portable. The small RF primes (16, 24, 28, 35, 50) offer better image quality with the same level of portability, albeit without zoom and costing more. The RF 24-105/4-7.1 is also a solid alternative that's larger but still fairly compact and gives you better range, image quality, and macro. All in all, this is a fantastic kit at a very nice price for a camera that's very easy to carry and use to get great results.
Really . . . For the money, what's to complain about?!
By Bryan A.
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2023-08-19
I'm a fairly serious bird, wildlife, and landscape still-photo hobbyist. I entered the digital camera arena late 2019 with a Canon M5 + kit lens, then moved up to RP + kit lens, and now to my new R8 with the 100-400mm lens and 1.4X teleconverter. For the money I've invested in this set-up and the quality of my photographs (as seen by others as well as me), I could not be happier!
The R8 is powerful, and when configured properly using the comparatively simple layout of its body and buttons, even with the non-professional grade lenses that I own, the images I achieve are quite impressive. For me, the biggest drawbacks are its non weather-sealed body and the lack of 2 card slots. As for the smaller battery, the Vello 2-battery grip I purchased (designed for the RP, but fully compatible with the R8) resolves the battery life issue. And; for the potential of overheating, I have already used this camera in bright, sunny, 93-degree conditions without any problems as long as I gave the R8 periodic 'breaks' with shade during periods in-between active shooting. The auto-focus is outstanding, and range of shutter speed options work very well for me, especially given the range and performance of its high ISO capabilities. As for the 100-400mm lens with the 1.4X extender option available to me, the 'reach' of this combination along with my 24-105mm kit lens provides most of what I need. I can't wait to try the 800mm f11 as well. For those who can afford professional glass, the results will be even better! Finally; for video, I've been pleased with what I've shot thus far, since I almost exclusively shoot stills.
So; from my perspective as an amateur nature photographer with a fairly limited budget, I'm left with this: for the money, what's to complain about?! Thanks, Canon, for making the R8 within reach of my peer group of photographers.
Wife's EOS R series & Family's Full Frame
By Chris
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2023-08-16
* Thank you Canon for making a smaller but insanely capable camera and we can forgive all the understandable and necessary trades!
I've been an APS-C guy for plenty of reasons over the years. APS-C was all I could afford forever ago when I origionally got into digital from film and I typically shoot aircraft, boats etc from considerable distances so the 1.6 crop factor was my friend. I can afford anything now but I still rolled in on an R7 when I went mirrorless for the crop factor and with its pixel density I'm not missing any 'quality' and its low light performance is ridiculous so I was never compelled to chase full frame for those reasons.
My wife has been loving what's been coming out of the R7 although she's not interested in the size and weight (I typically run around with an RF 70-200L F2.8 on it). At her high school reunion recently I convinced one of her professional photographer friends to take the Canon mirrorless leap from her 5DmIV by letter her play with my R7 and the eye tracking completely blew her away. She ordered an R6mII with an RF 50L F1.2 while we were still at the reunion and has never looked back.
All that brings me to why the R8 is outstanding for anyone looking for the R6mII sensor/processor magic in a comfortable, small, nearly weightless package. My wife absolutely loves it and since she shoots with small RF28 or RF50 F1.8 primes I don't think she'd ever know it didn't have IBIS like my R7 or her friend's R6mII.
The short of this review that I should have put right at the top is this camera is absolutely perfect for the adventurous photographer that wants a camera to go anywhere with them, that doesn't cost a bazillion, and has stellar image quality. The appreciated lower price justifies what it doesn't have (IBIS/large batteries) so there shouldn't be complaints or surprises. It sits perfectly in its niche.
(I've added the Vello battery grip for when I use it and I get the battery life and ergonomics I need when I want a full frame to squeeze everything out of our RF 14-35L F4 but otherwise I'm thrilled with my APS-C R7 and she's rocking it with a completely portable R8)
* Thank you Canon for making a smaller but insanely capable camera and we can forgive all the understandable and necessary trades!
Incredible Camera with Versatile Lens
By Weslley
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2023-08-04
I recently purchased the Canon EOS R8 Mirrorless Camera with the 24-50mm Lens, and I am blown away by its performance and features. This camera is an absolute game-changer for both photography enthusiasts and professionals alike.
First and foremost, the image quality is outstanding. The 24-50mm lens allows for a wide range of shots, from breathtaking landscapes to stunning portraits. The sharpness, clarity, and color accuracy are truly impressive, and I can confidently say that this camera produces some of the best images I've ever captured.
The EOS R8's mirrorless design makes it surprisingly compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around for extended periods without feeling fatigued. This portability factor is a huge advantage for on-the-go photographers like myself.
One of the standout features is the blazing-fast autofocus system. Whether I'm shooting fast-moving subjects or challenging lighting conditions, the camera locks onto the subject with incredible precision and speed, ensuring I never miss a critical moment.
Canon has also done a great job with the overall build quality. The camera feels solid and durable, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of daily use. The weather-sealing is a bonus, providing peace of mind when shooting in challenging weather conditions.
If you're serious about your craft and want to take your photography and videography to the next level, this camera is an investment you won't regret. Highly recommended!
smart little body!
By Eric
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2023-07-31
the autofocus is worlds better than on the EOS RP
Amazing performance for its price
By Marcelo
Rated 4 out of 5
Date: 2023-07-10
I am very impressed with this camera, I use it exclusively for stills so cannot comment on its video performance. I upgraded from a non-Canon APS-C system.
The (very) good:
- Outstanding autofocus
- Compact, lightweight
- Highly customizable interface
- Amazing dynamic range (compared to APS-C)
- Beautiful Canon colors (no longer need film simulations...)
The not-so-good:
- Lack of affordable 3rd party lenses (- 1/2 star)
- Low FPS with EFCS (- 1/2 star)
I have had no issues with the small battery (again, I'm only a stills shooter). I've only had one camera with dual card slots and haven't had any issues with a single card on any of my cameras. The EFCS is incredibly loud, ironically it sounds just like a mirror slap. The lack of IBIS is a non-issue for stills: Fon non-stabilized lenses (such as 50mm f1.8) I'll use the 1/(focal length) rule. This camera and a compact prime make for an outstanding compact, discrete and powerful system. It also works amazingly well with the 100-400 zoom. I'm very happy with my purchase.
Great choose
By Tziporah
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2023-09-19
TY B&H!
My first camera
By Amin
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2023-09-12
The new Canon eos r8 sets a new standard with outstanding image quality, fast autofocus, and user-friendly design. It's a versatile choice for both photographers and videographers, making it a top pick in its class.