With the start of IBC, Canon is unveiling their CN-R Cinema RF-mount primes lens series.  The full line of seven full-frame primes include a 14mm T3.1, 20mm T1.5, 24mm T1.5, 35mm T1.5, 50mm T1.3, 85mm T1.3, and a 135mm T2.2.  They feature a native RF-mount for electronic communication with the option to also remain fully manual. The fast T-stops provide shallow depth of field and their optical design supports good peripheral illumination, suppresses chromatic aberration, and offers distortion correction, delivering up to 8K resolution with HDR.

What separates this series from previous Canon CN Primes, (previously available only in EF or PL mount,) is the native RF-mount which is designed specifically to work with mirrorless cameras. Having a shorter flange back distance of approx. 20mm (which is less than half of the distance on DSLR cameras), allows lenses to fit closer to the focal plane of the camera’s sensor. This short back focus not only allows the camera body design to be more compact, but also gives more freedom for optical system design improvements. When used on supported cameras, these lenses can take advantage of the 12-Pin Data Communication System which utilizes multiple channels dedicated to specific functions and enhances lens and camera cooperation for functions such as dual-pixel AF as well as generally improved focus precision and image stabilization. The CN-R primes feature 300º of focus rotation, glow-in-the-dark markings, the same standard front diameter of 114mm, and with exception of the 14mm, they feature 105mm filter threads for quick interchange of lenses and filters.

Canon is planning to release more of their cinema lenses with RF-mount options to enable native communication between their professional cine lenses and RF-mount cameras, like their currently available EOS C70 and EOS R5 C. The new CN-R lenses are expected to start delivering in early 2024 at a per lens MSRP below $4,000 US.