The patent mill is churning once again, and this time, it’s hinting at a potential earthquake in the world of ultra-wide-angle lenses. A recent Canon patent application has ignited speculation about a groundbreaking lens, a zoom lens that could redefine the possibilities for landscape, astrophotography, and architectural photographers.
While Canon’s current lineup of ultra-wide zooms is already impressive, this new patent, found by Canon Rumors, for a 14-20mm f/2 lens pushes the boundaries of what we thought possible. An f/2 aperture in an ultra-wide zoom range is practically unheard of, promising exceptional low-light performance and the ability to create stunning images with shallow depth of field, even at wider focal lengths. As someone who has owned the Sigma 14mm f/1.8 for a long time, I can attest to how much fun it is, and the idea of it in a zoom is even more exciting.
Astrophotographers, in particular, stand to benefit immensely. The fast f/2 aperture would allow for shorter exposure times, minimizing star trailing and capturing the faintest celestial objects with increased detail. Event photographers would also likely appreciate such a lens. Canon has already set a precedent with the impressive RF 28-70mm f/2 L USM, and I’m sure this lens would be wildly popular as well.
While the patent application provides a tantalizing glimpse into Canon’s vision, it’s important to remember that it’s not a guarantee of production. However, the potential of an RF 14-20mm f/2 lens is undeniable, and it wouldn’t surprise me to see some version of the lens at some point. Hopefully, we’ll hear more soon!
Michael Johnson is a tech enthusiast with a passion for all things digital. His articles cover the latest technological innovations, from artificial intelligence to consumer gadgets, providing readers with a glimpse into the future of technology.
