Canon R5. From DSLR to Mirrorless. My thoughts so far from a professional photographer

After over 20 years of shooting professionally with various Canon DSLR cameras I have invested in the mirrorless Canon R5 and RF lenses. Join me as I discuss the pros and cons of my journey moving to mirrorless. I always like to gain plenty of experience with any kit before making a video about it so I have now shot numerous professional assignment at home and abroad with the R5, everything from portraits and news stories to interiors and landscapes. I am still evolving with the camera so I don’t have a definitive opinion yet on every aspect of the camera but will discuss my findings so far and invite others to jump in on the comments with their experiences and thoughts. I intend to make a series of videos looking more in depth at every feature of the new mirrorless range as I evolve with the camera using it in the very real world of professional photography.

[@gjss1988]

Hi Roy, wonderful to have you back! I just love the passion you give to us about you journey in photography! It’s always evolving, be it with new tech, or old. It’s a search for something meaningful, a light, a colour, a shade… I’ve started my journey this year with a 6D Mk2. You’ve made me understand the character a prime like de 50 f1.4 has… You deal with it, but there’s something special about that! Thank you for your channel and content. Hope of everything good for you. Kind regards.

[@RoyRiley]

What a brilliant comment to read! Thank you so much and good luck on your photography journey! RR

[@rosem7606]

Thank you for your pragmatic honesty! You make me smile a lot - honesty and self humor - such wonderful qualities to love this life, and your thoughts!

[@RoyRiley]

What a lovely comment! Thank you. I am pleased you enjoyed the video and you have made me smile with your words so we are now equal. Best wishes. Roy

[@jimshadforth1686]

Glad you're back. I enjoy your subjective impressions and your overall approach.

[@RoyRiley]

Thanks Jim! Appreciate your feedback and support. All the best RR

[@justesmond]

I love your review Roy. Great job.

[@videosuperhighway7655]

New subscriber. Honestly the best youtube photography channel. Really appreciate your honest real photography talk. Lots of learning watching your videos. Really appreciate the time and work you are putting in these videos. Myself also a photographer since mid 80s. There is definitely something about the 5D mark IV RAW files, love what comes out of it.

[@RoyRiley]

Thanks for this. Always appreciate such positive feedback! Yes the 5d mark iv files are pretty special!! Actually feels really nice picking it up after using the R5 on its own for a while. Think I will always be a DSLR shooter at heart even though I know the R5 is right for certain things. Appreciate your subscription. All the best. Roy

[@ebeneezergd]

Great natural delivery, authentic and interesting. Thanks Roy!

[@RoyRiley]

My pleasure!

[@directorbones]

Another great review. After not seeing a video for awhile I was hoping you were out on assignment. Nice to see you putting a new camera through the ringer.

[@RoyRiley]

Cheers Jeremy! Hope the world is treating you well. RR

[@davidmalone4017]

This is my favorite channel on the air-so much good information-and so practical-I am considering a new camera -and I am a dedicated Canon photographer-R5 is on the top of the list-but I do love my 5D Mark IV-A truly wonderful camera!!

[@RoyRiley]

Thanks David! Both very very capable cameras. The more I use the R5 the more I like it.. maybe have a look at the R6 mark 2?

[@christopherdeanecampbell7162]

Hello sir from New Zealand. I’d just like to say thank you for your input and advice. You have a great channel and you are teaching this old 57 year old some new tricks, much appreciated and again thank you for sharing.

[@RoyRiley]

Thanks Christopher. Glad to be of some help. Hope the world is treating g you right in NZ

[@wywhwywh221]

Hi Roy, Love the review. So in-depth from a photographers perspective instead of reading an info sheet. I am looking now to upgrade to the R5 and RF 70-200mm. Keep up the awesome videos! Peace!

[@RoyRiley]

Thanks Daniel! Appreciate your comment and support. Let me know how you get on if you go down the R5 road. R

[@wombatwombaffle]

Good work! Really love hearing what a working photographer has to say about gear xx

[@RoyRiley]

Thanks WW. Appreciate your comment and support. Hope life is good with you. RR

[@adventure_photo]

Great insights we’ll presented!

[@RoyRiley]

Cheers!

[@Fifthimagez]

Congrats on the new camera great video

[@RoyRiley]

Cheers Chris. Just need to sort out my credit card bill and everything will be rosy! Hope life is treating you well? RR

[@RichardBarleyphoto]

Thanks for your review, it’s always interesting to see your view on a camera as I know you are out there earning a living with them. I used the 5d mk1 for 15 years for weddings and still love the colour from these cameras, I finally switched this year to the mk4 and really don’t like the colour through Lightroom, I have used Lightroom from day one. Your video helped me re-evaluate and I am going to try other RAW processing software.

[@RoyRiley]

Thanks Richard. I think as these cameras are getting more complex it seems that it can be a little trickier to get the simple colour that we were so fond of in the earlier canons. I have a simple preset that I smack on my mk4 files in Lightroom and that seems to bring it back a little to what I'm used to.. also doing the same with the R5 but a little heavier. worth having a fiddle. But also like you say.. maybe worth trying out alternative RAW software.. let me know how you get on?

[@scottmuir2385]

Thanks Rou for the video - You have a new subscriber! I discovered you as I have a 5DMKiV that I have had since 2018 and am learning all the time with it and my gear! I am contemplating upgrading to mirrorless as I have some opportunities in the video space which have presented themselves, but im just not ready to take the financial plunge - but this video makes me feel much more comfortable and I might just rent an R5 & adapter for a few shoots to see what’s what! Looking forward to more quality video’s - cheers!

[@RoyRiley]

Thanks Scott! Much appreciated. Since making this video I have used the R5 for several video projects and I must say that for video the camera is really rather good! Might well be worth your while renting one for a few days and seeing how it fits for your purposes.

[@cliffterpher]

Absolutely brilliant review. So honest and self-deprecating. Enjoyed the thoughts on using EVF and general mirrorless workflow. I am loving the 5D Mk1, all kinds of Nikons and a whole range of more modern'ish DSLR and MFT cameras so the R5 is about 20 years away for me. Hope you continue to be successful with this one (please not stop your DSLR videos though!)

[@RoyRiley]

Thanks Cliff! Much appreciated.. absolutely not going to stop using DSLR cameras. best wishes to you. RR

[@mikafoxx2717]

The 5D Classic is.. a classic! I kept it as a backup body and I ended up needing to use it. With a good lens like the 40mm, or 100mm macro, this camera still rocks. Even this old camera often has the lenses be the limiting factor for quality. So get a good lens and the camera can be an afterthought - almost.

[@trevor9934]

Hi Roy. As always I enjoy your honest, down-to-earth approach to your videos. I have been shooting with the R-series bodies for about 18 months - 1x R5 and 2 xR6 units: all with battery grips. The output I create can vary a lot in size, and resolution, so I found the solution was to use R6 units for lower res and for backup. I also found the R6 has about one EV better DR. Like you, I still shoot with my Canon DSLRs, but have had no real issues in transitioning across. That said, I try to take a set of cameras from each platform (so, all R-series or DSLRs with the appropriate lenses), but then again I have multiple bodies, which was a big outlay, but I also prefer not to change lenses in the field, so I have always lived with that cost. I will say that I TOTALLY agree that one has to study the manual and spend some time with it and the controls to align the camera's controls and settings to one's style of photography - I find a lot of people don't do that, and get overwhelmed (or if they haven't understood the use of features, underwhelmed) when they go out to shoot. I think it makes a lot of sense to configure a set of characteristics for a particular type of shooting, and assign them to one of C1 - 3 modes. Like you, I find the CF-Express Type B cards very pricey, and the reader is a ridiculous price! Still, the performance of the cards is good in clearing the buffer quickly, especially when shooting continuous RAW at high speed. As to the RAW rendition. Given that DPP and Capture One can process the images with some success, I am wondering if perhaps the issue you describe is more with a tardy Adobe creation of profiles for the new Canon tech, and less with the images themselves? I don't know... So far I have loved the RF lenses: I have the 24-105L, 100-500 and the 24-240 for when I want to go out with just one body for fun. I have to say that the latter lens is amazing for its range and honestly can't tell any significant difference against the 24-105 across their common focal lengths. I got this when my 24-105L was on back-order for 7 months (NZ is on the end of a long logistics path). The Canon EF-RF adapters I have used with my legacy native and sigma lenses have all worked fine so far, which is hugely encouraging. Looking forward to hearing of your latest adventures and experiences with your gear.

[@RoyRiley]

Trevor. As ever this is a great comment. full of brilliant information. Thank You. Yes. Adobe Lightroom has been a bit tricky so cannot put all the blame on the camera. Kind of wish Canon and Adobe had put their heads together at some point. Actually the camera matching profiles have really helped. I think its inevitable that I will get another R body at some point. Might look at a used R as a back up / second body. I also agree about the CF Express cards. They do get the job done very well! I would love to try out a few other RF lenses and that 24-240 looks tempting as does the 100-500.. Actually they all look tempting but so does keeping my vital organs!! Hope life is treating you well in NZ. I have just had some family visiting from Cambridge NZ. One day a trip back over will be on the cards for us. I spent a long time hanging out in Mount Maunganui a few years back while on a long shoot in NZ

[@julianoverardi]

Great video, as always. I'm still in the 5DmkIII era, but I think the R5 is the way to go (after the 5DmkIV, of course!) Welcome back!

[@RoyRiley]

Thanks Juliano! Hope your world is spinning at just the right speed. RR

[@Palm_Breeze]

I was literally just looking at your channel if you had any videos on the mirrorless system and this just popped up. Talk about timing.

[@RoyRiley]

Nice! Hope this answers some of your questions.. all the best. RR

[@tonyburford421]

Another great vid Roy. Interesting to hear yours views on the leap to mirrorless and the learning curve your currently on. My first canon was an AV-1 many many years ago and now have the 5D4, there have been many canons in between but I could move effortlessly from one to another. Not sure I’d find it quite as simple with an R5! If I was attempting to make a living from photography then I’m sure I’d get an R5 but as a ‘happy snapper’ I’m more comfortable with the investment level dslr’s are currently at. Keep the vids coming!

[@RoyRiley]

Thanks Tony! The R5 is getting better and better as the shoots roll on.. still a few niggles but im getting there! its hidden secret is its utterly incredible video capability.. I will do some sort of content about that soon. All the best. R

[@davidclode3601]

Thanks Roy, very helpful!

[@RoyRiley]

Cheers David! Glad you found this of help. RR

[@Wszyc]

So excited when Roy uploads a new video :D Best photo content on the planet :)

[@RoyRiley]

This comment cheered me up no end! Thanks for that.. actually it means the world to me and has really made my day! Cheers man.. appreciate it.. RR

[@Wszyc]

@@RoyRiley No problem :) just being honest. You channel have something that others dont, you show the gear and share the view over photography from the perspective of a pro with ages of experience you are not about the specs or newest trends. I love it! Its refreashing to watch your videos and keeps mind open for different aspects for making photos.

[@RoyRiley]

@@Wszyc much appreciated. It’s great to get such positive feedback. Good luck on your photography journey. Stay in touch! RR

[@RickLincoln]

I came to the R5 from the 5D3. Like you, I am picky about all aspects of my equipment and my use of it. I have absolutely zero problem with color. Instead of using the camera matching profiles, I use the ones that I generated from a Color Checker Passport (full sun, shade, tungsten, flash, etc. ) My Lightroom import profile is a dual illuminant profile generated from the Passport. It is interesting that it gets it right so often. There is no color issue with the R5. There is/was a color issue with Lightroom.

[@RoyRiley]

Sounds interesting. How are you building the profile?

[@NoName-jq7tj]

Yes it a complicated beast. When I got my 1D Mark IV years ago it actually took me years to understand such a camera. I went through the entire manual & all the custom functions over a long time. It’s an evolution understanding these bodies. It was also very intimidating when using such a body as I had such limited knowledge & experience at this level. It was like getting to know someone. That how these cameras are built. They are not simple. You pick & choose how the body works for you.

[@RoyRiley]

Totally agree! That ID mk4 was and still is a great camera. I took one loaned from Canon Germany on a heavy duty trip across Turkey a few years ago. Did not miss a beat and the image quality holds up well to this day. Thanks for your thoughts on this. R

[@davidmalone4017]

Roy-I think your videos are the very best-I love my mark IV and just can’t find a reason to change-maybe sometime in the future

[@RoyRiley]

Thanks David! You literally find me in the middle of some field tests. Colour testing the R5 against a battered old 5d mark 2. The finding are primarily for my own purposes but will find their way into a KZbin video some time soon! Thanks for your support. RR

[@jeffmanser2883]

Wow so much to learn

[@RoyRiley]

Haha. Yes. a year later i'm still learning!

[@DistanBach]

Great to hear your reflections on the R5. I finally pulled the trigger late last year and bought the R6. I had a wedding booked and earlier this year and figured I’d need a few months to get acquainted with the new system. Like you say, it is much more complicated than I expected. I think it’ll take me another year before I feel as comfortable with it as I did with my 5DM3. I’m glad you mentioned the colours out of the R5. I used the 5D3 as my second body for the wedding and was shocked at how richer they were compared to the R6. Sure they can be massaged but that’s precious more time spent in Lightroom that I wasn’t anticipating. I’ve only bought one RF lens at the moment, the 70-200 f2.8 and am still using all my old EF glass. I’m also chasing character so the RF28-70 has been high on the next purchase list. Shame it’s so eye watering my expensive, not to mention it’s size and crazy filter diameter. We’ll see I suppose. Thanks again for sharing your thoughts, so many of which chimed with me too. Subscribed!

[@mvp_kryptonite]

That was my thought that if it’s character one is seeking, then the 28-70 probably has it. Iv found no difference from all my 7D line bodies and now R7 colour wise, but I use DPP. I do miss all the buttons and get what Roy is saying about the EVF, it happened to me the other day it’s like I forgot I could change settings because I was consumed by the EVF screen, sounds weird. Really enjoyed the video!

[@alexnrs8700]

Hey Roy. First time I’ve watched one of your videos. Like the content and appreciate your sharing. Re your ask… I’m dealing with the two body mixed lense mount problem by running two RF bodies with only adapted EF glass while travelling, to keep things simple. Cheers.

[@RoyRiley]

Thanks Scott. Im thinking of adding another RF body too.. might give an R6 or maybe an R7 a run for it’s money.. what you shooting with?

[@Aiproductions713]

Great info. I’m an R6 shooter and very similar experience excluding the megapixel difference.

[@RoyRiley]

Good to hear Henry! Wishing you every success with your R6. RR

[@ekristensen]

Nice, thorough and well reflected video. I bought the R5, coming from 5D Mk II (not sold yet), and my personal difficulty is to get used to the EVF. I'm also migrating from EF into RF lenses and bought the RF/EF adapter with the programmable control ring. I've set the control ring in reverse and assigned it to the AF method, which I find perfect for my use. Having a right thumb with reduced dexterity, I basically cannot use the AF-ON button, though two easy reachable control wheels are a godsend for me. Thus, the three wheels are set as default to aperture, shutter and ISO with the lens control ring set to (reversed as it fits my logic) control the AF method. And yes, there's still lots to learn about the camera, and I'm looking forward to master it. I'm really satisfied with my migration to MR with this camera.

[@RoyRiley]

Thank you and good luck with your R5.

[@ptvfr800]

Fascinating video, thanks Roy. I am a hobbyist photographer who shoots mostly birds down by the river or in my back garden. I have a 90D and an R8. I absolutely love them both but I find it easier to get great shots with the R8, the eye detect auto focus is brilliant! I also struggle slightly to get the exposure spot on with the 90D, it’s usually a bit over or a bit under. The 90D has a canon 100-400L usm ii attached permanently where as the R8 now has the RF 200-800. I treat my 90D like a classic car now, I love using it but the R8 out performs it in all areas so has become my daily ‘Driver’.

[@agubser07]

Great video. I felt much the same as you in terms of adjusting to the complexity and customizability of switching from Canon APS-C DSLR to Sony full frame mirrorless. It was a bit daunting at first, but once you come to terms with programming everything to suit you, it's a game changer. The eye detect AF in particular has greatly improved my portrait photography and makes nailing focus at f/1.4 effortless. I think when you try some of the RF primes, you'll find your opinion change about the character from the lens. I've tended to avoid lenses like the 24-105mm f/4 because of what you describe. Although technically excellent, they seem to lack some of that ephemeral "it" factor that you get from wide aperture prime lenses. That being said, everyone seems to think the RF 28-70mm f/2 breaks the mold.

[@RoyRiley]

Thanks for this response. Yes I wanted that 28-70 very badly but finances could not quite stretch! I think I will add a few primes as and when and continue to use my EF primes with the adaptor for now

[@martinekwall4671]

It was fun to hear your journey into mirrorless. You got a sub. I understand several of your points. I guess when one got used to growing up with film cameras and their simplicity has formed us. I have had so many different Canon cameras for my work and the focus assurance with mirrorless is just worth the jump. I agree it's the most important aspect of mirrorless when doing client work. IMO I think the R5 files are a bit better and more flexible then 5Dmk4. Yes getting the right profile for the camera in the raw converter is key. I use Capture One since the beginning of it and I find the colors seldom being an issue. Generally I find the Canon colors being a bit yellowish but is easily corrected. Lightroom has always been better on noise reduction though. No I haven't experienced sea sickness of the viewfinder but I find the "flashing" of it in darker environments fatiguing. About the disconnecting feeling try to mix photographing by looking at the back screen and the viewfinder, that's works for me. I also shoot tethered and that is relieving for the eyes, seeing the photo at larger scale and having a look at it with the clients. Camera on tripod and tethered gets the technical stuff out of the way and looking directly at the talents - I like that, (it's not always practical of course). Have you tried it?

[@jayplatt8798]

Nice to hear that you like the RF 24-105L. I have an EOS R (Mirrorless 5D IV) and love it. That lens has been back ordered forever. I have been debating the 24-105 vs the 24-70 for large 100 - 180 stitched panos / mosaics. I shoot landscapes in monochrome and try to print wall size.

[@RoyRiley]

My experience with the RF 24-105 F4 is that it’s perfectly sharp and technically fine in every respect.. however it can be almost too perfect and lacks a little character but that is in many ways just the nature of standard zooms like this. It’s a great workhorse lens that get the job done very very well

[@jayplatt8798]

@@RoyRiley Thank you. I rented it a couple weeks ago on a trip to Alaska. Any defects I saw in my photos were my fault and not the lens. Anyway, I definitely don't need f 2.8. I shoot around f 11 and almost always on a tripod. I can buy a 35 mm and 16 mm prime for the difference in cost. Or buy the EF 16 - 35 f4. I already have the adapter.

[@kclarkeadventures]

I think you can go into the settings and adjust the profiles to get the colour tone you want.

[@RussBuchmann]

Great video. Don’t worry about the quantity of videos you do - but of course we’d like more. Maintain the sincerity and down-to-earth tone. I feel like this is how videos should be if people focused on genuine quality content before algorithms. Nice work and thanks for the info.

[@RoyRiley]

Thanks Russ! Much appreciated..

[@EsotericNY]

Nice review. DxO PL 5.x and CaptureOne do indeed pull more color. I'm starting to use both much more than LR nowadays. Re your comment on the R6, rest assured, you still made the right choice going w/ the R5... it supports a *much* wider range of video formats than the R6 (all of the ones supported by the Sony alpha)

[@RoyRiley]

Thanks JM. The more I shoot with the R5 the more I come to rely upon it and like it a little more each time I shoot. The eye AF really is a life saver for me at the moment. I am looking into C1 but have been getting much better results with LR lately.

[@robertlawrence7958]

Great video. I find myself agreeing with everything you say here. I do not make a living from photography but still take it pretty seriously. I too was shooting on a 5D mkiv (with a 6D as my second body) but realised that not only is the future mirrorless but that the present is practically so already! For me that meant making the huge decision to sell my 5D and make a leap of faith into the R series. My choice was the R6 as I have neither the requirements for, nor the desire for 45mp with all the attendant computer issues that involves. Having made that leap I was amazed with what the R6 brought to the table. I haven't yet been able to afford to change my EF lenses but as the adapters work so well that is something I can do as and when the funding is available. What I have done is replace my 6D with a second R6 body. This was simply to enable me to have two identical sets of controls instead of going back and forth between the R6 and the 6D. As you mentioned, these are highly complex bits of kit and my old brain cannot cope with jumping between two systems. Setting up the cameras is a complex process to me but I am gradually working out how best to set them up to suit the various subjects I shoot. If I was in your shoes, with a few each of RF and EF lenses and the issue of having to have back up kit then I believe the only logical solution would be to get a second RF mount body. That way you could use all of your lenses (native RF or adapted EF) on both bodies. All the best.

[@RoyRiley]

Thank you Robert. I agree two R bodies would be perfect and that’s probably what will happen at some point. I am struggling with the idea of retiring all my DSLR cameras though.. I’m still very attached! Time will tell I guess.. thanks again for your comment and support and good luck with your R6 duo!

[@midlifetonic]

Really great!

[@louiswhite4909]

Thank you for your time and channel. Proof there is a difference between “KZbinr” camera channels and professional photographer with a KZbin channel. I am a horses for courses type. I started mirrorless a bit early with the Sony a6000 then Sony A7II. I also still shoot Canon,1DS Mark III my favorite and a 5D Mark IV. What I don’t understand is the color! The color and just imagery of the 1Ds Mark III are just always beautiful and very pleasing. I actually prefer seascapes,sunsets,sunrises, and portraits on the 1Ds Mark III over that of the 5D MkIV any given day. I have been considering the R5, but have been wondering if Canon was becoming more Sony in image quality. Which is not bad, quite good, but not exceptional.

[@RoyRiley]

Thanks for this great comment Louis. I still have one of the old 1Ds mark 3 cameras! Still a great piece of equipment. I did a video on that camera on my channel if you are interested.. having now shot with the R5 for a while longer I pretty much stick by everything I said. I think I have pretty much perfected my set up for now and am getting better colour all the time as I come to understand the sensor. It is for sure different to everything that has come before but the eye focusing for me is just awesome when shooting people. It just works really well and gives me one less thing to worry about. For some other things the focus can be a pain though. As you say.. horses for courses!

[@siemazzo]

Hi Roy, thanks for your review ! Really a fresh change to hear about a genuine user experience rather than going on about a gazillion of megapixels and machine gun FPS rates! Would you be able at some point maybe provide a similar review of the R6? It undeniably is a little more affordable option for an average, non-pro user - still a little beast though...

[@RoyRiley]

I have used an R6 but not enough to make a review. My initial thoughts though are very positive.. If your not blowing work up huge then get an R6. I prefer the dial on the top to the R5 mode button and dual SD cards My advice.. if you want a full frame mirrorless canon..get an R6.. or maybe a second hand R?

[@neild108]

I much appreciate your detailed and thoughtful experience-based comments. The comparisons to the 5D Mark IV are most helpful. Fascinating that the R5 files, while full of "juice" and depth, do tend to break more suddenly than those of the 5D4. And I really appreciate your point about the R5 autofocus in low contrast scenes. This would have been a major disappointment for me, as I shoot landscape a lot, and better autofocus than with my 5D4 is major reason for a planned upgrade to the R5. I will still likely do so, but now will not be expecting miracles. I'll be 'focusing' on finding ways to make sure the AF snaps on properly, such as, as you suggest, finding a close-by high contrast area. With the 5D4, I've found that the centre AF point, just like with the Canon 6D, gives the most reliable AF performance, so I'm used to working with cameras to get the best out of them. BTW, I must say that you are one of the most articulate speakers in the KZbin photography space, and that is saying a lot, as I regularly view about a dozen of the top channels. Your clarity and smoothness in presentation goes well with your insightful knowledge based on abundant pro experience. Welcome to KZbin!

[@RoyRiley]

What a brilliant comment! Thank you. I really appreciate the feedback and hope the content is of value to you. Sounds like you know the right way forward for you and I wish you every success on your photography journey. Thanks for your kind words. Much appreciated. RR

[@ToxicMetropolis]

This was a super helpful video (considering the switch from 5DMK4 myself for the AF when shooting portraits) - thanks! I appreciate all the context and hearing you speak from experience, etc. because it answered a bunch of questions I had. Sucks to hear you were not thrilled with the colour straight out of the camera (are you going to release your tweak profile??), and then everything else sounds like just a case of using the thing for a bit longer before it becomes second nature.

[@RoyRiley]

Thank you! Glad you found it useful. Still working on the colour situation. The biggest issue I think is Lightroom (or so I’m told..) but I’m getting there!

[@magiccarpetrider4594]

I’m a 45 yr pro and professor. Went to Canon digital at the first 1Ds, through all of them, last with a couple of 5d4’s (for 24x36 files). Flipped one for an R in 2018 to use focus peaking on mf Zeiss lenses (dont like many Canon lenses). Flipped out the other for an R5 in January- still miss it. I’ve also got a Leica M10m and M10r for personal work. I’m ready to dump Canon to use my Zeiss on an SL2. The RF lenses are technical but soulless. I find the files not as robust as the 5d4 with the R5- the R was greater with the older sensor.

[@robertmccutchan5450]

Eye watering expensive.....I love it! So much of photography equipment is eye watering expensive! "Back in the day", you could buy a Nikon or Minolta and shoot for many decades without needing to upgrade camera, and the initial cost of the camera was minimal. My first camera I shot weddings with was a Minolta X700 that cost $300 USD, and I still have it, and it still works!

[@mikebandana7345]

Thanks for sharing. Very interesting informations and your point of view. I was testing the R a little bit and it feels very good. Maybe a bit plasticky, like not that sturdy and heavy feeling like the old(er) DSLRs. In past i was used to, like when things are heavy, then they are well built 😀. Im just not a friend of electronic VW. I also have an older Canon bridge and a Sony Alpha 6000 and they both have an electronic VW. I like more the feeling when i see the target directly through the lens. About the flip screen: There are many discussions about some models, where people prefered it on the side, cause when it was on top, they had problems with a mounted microphone when filming. So some companies released new models where it flips out on the bottom, but thats even worse when you mount the cam on a tripod or hand grip. So many are still experimenting with different cage kits to find the best solution.

[@RoyRiley]

Thanks for your thoughts on this. I played with the quite new Panasonic GH6 the other day and it seems they have absolutely nailed the whole screen thing. That said, I’ve not battle tested it so maybe there are issues.. time will tell.. all the best. RR

[@richardtierney7724]

I am a Dinosaur as well... Last year bought a "Mint" Fuji XT-1 to get into mirrorless. Love it! Love the "what you see is what you get" when it comes to exposure settings and colour etc using the EVF. I will never need a R5 like you do but time moves om and if its your living then one has to move with times. I wonder if you could still get the same results a lot easier using a tried and tested system to you, you are happy and relaxed with, knowing it like the back of your hand? I have read yu can get bill board sized images with a much smaller size sensor? Anyway great to see you back on the "air" looking forward to more videos soon. I agree about the "old Canon's for colour. I have a mint 5D Mk2 and the colours from that, as you will agree, are fabulous. I love the 24-105 F4/L lens my favourite. Cheers Roy.

[@RoyRiley]

Thanks for this Richard. I’m a big fan of the Fuji system. XT-1 is still a great camera.. the whole process is a journey. Only time will tell! All the best. RR

[@simongentry]

dino's unite! i get it. and my view is that the R line of cameras IS an evolution... the R5 doubly so. i come from DSLRs too, the 1dx line, and had it not been for shooting the C line of Canon's cinema cameras, i'd be stuck. two reasons, first the looking at a 'television' screen gets to be normal, and the menu system in the R line is a direct pull from canon's cinema line. i kept my 1dxmkiii to use with the R5, and i too noticed the 'clinical' nature of the rf lenses. two lenses you might want to try though are the 50mm 1.2 and the 100mm 2.8 macro - they do have character! also with the latest firmware - shooting video is now no issue. yay. great over view, ty.

[@phynx2006]

I just picked up the R5 in January 2024, couldn't resist the sales, and I totally agree with your review comments. I recently responded on another KZbin Photography Channel that I had a hard time finding a big difference between the R5 and the 5D Mark IV images, and found myself actually preferring the 5d Mark IV colors, also finding the R5 images a little flat. I'm not a professional Photographer and I haven't had the opportunity to use my camera as much as you have, but I agree it will take some time to get use to the eccentricities of the R5. I also have the R6 and I really enjoy using it along side the 5D Mark IV and also really like the images from the R6. I still need more time with R5 before I can truly decide if it's me or the camera, lol, it's probably me 🤣. BTW great video 👍😍

[@RoyRiley]

Thanks for this. I recently processed some old pictures from the 5d4 and was again impressed with how that camera handles colour over the R5. To be fair the R5 files are capable of anything that your heart desires but just requires a more gently loving touch to get there

[@deanrobertnoble138]

I have the Canon 6D and an RP. I think i love the files better from the 6D; more old school Canon colours. The RP, despite being at the lower end of the full frame range, it gives an inroad to the new Canon R system; find it very easy to use. Better AF and i do like using the EVF. Both i got used and a great deal on them. The 6D is still a great camera. Great video; thankyou.

[@AnandaGarden]

I admire your work and am grateful for your insights. I'm just about on the point of liking my new R6, hoping I can make it do the basics well so that it gets out of my way, and hoping I'll like the character of my favorite lenses with the R6 sensor. Time will tell.

[@Aiproductions713]

I’m an R6 shooter as well. Been about 8 months. What are some of your favorite lenses character wise?

[@RoyRiley]

Cheers! I like what you say about making a camera do what you want so it can get out of the way.. that’s the way I see it too!! I don’t like having to think too much about the camera while I’m shooting. Thanks for your continued support. I really do appreciate it. RR

[@AnandaGarden]

Henry - Best character but least versatile lens: 135/2. All-around character: EF 24-105/4 (I haven't used the RF model), EF 16-35 F/4. All looked wonderful with my 6D's over the years. I'm guessing any of the 35/1.4 would be wonderful too. Of course, I've seen beautiful photos taken with all sorts, including the 50/1.8 STM, but I'm considering lenses where the microcontrast and mystery qualities look great even when the image is crap. 🙂

[@AnandaGarden]

@@RoyRiley Hello Roy. I always think of film days with Nikon F4 - it was big and heavy but got out the way beautifully - everything just worked, focus, exposure. It even had a shutter sound that people seemed not to notice much.

[@RoyRiley]

@@AnandaGarden what a camera the F4 was! I wanted one so badly but ended up with a T90 instead

[@josephpeppard561]

Hey Roy, thanks for the interesting video and content. I feel your pain with color rendition but as I'm sure you are well aware every generation sensor and processor is different. Having shot Canon cameras for many years and now shooting the R5 I can say that Capture One gives me the colors and look that I need. I never use Lightroom anymore as a Raw converter. I also shoot Nikon and Sony cameras depending on the project and lenses required and I love the results with Capture One. In addition, once you've used the R5 for a little while it will become more intuitive and less complex. I hope this is helpful information. Wishing you best of luck and a smooth transition to mirrorless and the amazing R5 camera.

[@RoyRiley]

Cheers Joseph! Much appreciated.. I have many colleagues who also recommend Capture One.. maybe I should rethink my Post Production…. Time will tell. Thanks again for your wisdom and support. RR

[@onlysublime]

You're so experienced so I'm worried to ask this but did you use the camera specific profiles in lightroom? Going away from the Adobe profiles made a huge difference. Plus the new ai masking tools in lightroom are magical and have totally changed how I bulk edit photos.

[@RoyRiley]

@@onlysublime dont ever be worried to ask! I am not the expert on these things and everyone is still learning. It’s a good point you make and I have been using the camera profiles as you say they do a difference. I have been a Lightroom fan since version 1 but sometimes it’s worth looking around at what else is available I guess. Thanks for your comment. RR

[@josephpeppard561]

@@onlysublime Hi, I did not use Adobe profiles and I agree with you. I have not used the new AI masking tools as I haven't used Lightroom for some time. As I shoot multiple systems with Canon, Nikon and Sony, Capture One gives me the most consistent results with color over all. Thanks for the comment and great question.

[@darylcheshire1618]

I’m not a pro but my last camera was the Canon 5D mk III, the only jarring thing was that the R5 falls asleep and there is nothing to see until it wakes up compared to the optical DSLR. What I found awesome was the animal tracking meant my bird photos were always in focus. I considered the R3 but wanted the 45 MP. Yes, I struggle to find the red dots. The adapter makes the EF lens bigger but it makes up for the missing mirror box. The DSLR was thicker because of the mirror box. I put my R5 with adapter next to the mk III and the mounting rings of the DSLR and the adapter line up perfectly.

[@RoyRiley]

Yes the sleeping camera thing can be a pain. Thanks for your comment. Interesting g stuff!

[@andypandy3736]

great vid i agree hundred percent with your comment on character with the rf lenses its just not there

[@RoyRiley]

Thank you! My opinion of the system is evolving the more I shoot. Probably 100k frames in now and I can say I do feel lIke I’m falling deeply in love with the R system. The lenses are expensive and a bit weird but holy smoke they produce sharp images. Always consistent, always sharp. Not bad characteristics!

[@neopets666]

I’m looking to switch to mirror less this year. I’ve always shot with canon - just not sure which way to go. This video is helping me narrow it down tho.

[@RoyRiley]

Glad to be of some help.. R6 mark 2 looks interesting

[@kokliangchew3609]

Roll on the Canon T90 :) Now that tank was a camera to remember. It was always a toss up between that and the Nikon F3 Titanium which I inherited from my father.

[@RoyRiley]

Haha! Yes! Both great cameras. I had the T90 and the A1 back in the early 90s.. sold them both to raise fund for the move to EOS

[@stephenburch9178]

Very nice and thoughtful video Roy. I've had an R5 for over 2 years now and use it mainly for bird photography, so a very different field to you. However I found myself agreeing with you almost all the time! I was very interested in your comments about colour and your use of your own camera profile. I've also noticed issues with the colours and have tried various profile or prosets generated by others for Adobe Camera Raw, as used in Lightroom and Photoshop. But I have some reservations about most of them. Do you have any plans to share the one you have developed?

[@RoyRiley]

Thanks Stephen. I really appreciate your thoughts on this. It’s good to hear from someone who has experience of the R5 who has come to a similar conclusion. With regard to the profile I am still tweaking! I think I will probably be tweaking until the end of time.. if I ever arrive at something worth making public then I will let you know!

[@jennygw1883]

Hey again. I've shot on the 5d2 3 and now the 4. Love them all. Love my chunky L series lenses too. Thing is, they feel balanced and natural to hold. There is plenty of room to adjust how I hold the camera. I picked up a mirrorless to give it a go and it just felt horrible. Not enough room for my fingers on the grip, front heavy and with a noticeably smaller rear screen to review on. It felt like a kids toy. I wish Canon would give us a 5d5 (6,7, 8, 9 ... ) as I hate the thought of being forced to use mirrorless. As for EVF. No thanks! Lol

[@RoyRiley]

I think we probably are quite similar. DSLR camera fit me better in so many ways.. I am liking the R5 more and more as time goes by though, especially the AF for portraits but then I’m also dealing with a few eye problems so I need all the help I can get! I think we each have to find our own way. The EF lens range is extensive, long lasting and cost effective as in many ways are the cameras 1dx range and 5d4 will be around for ages even if discontinued. Just stick with that and look no further!

[@adrianlynch9435]

I am a new subscriber and I am finding your channel and videos quite refreshing. I am an enthusiast that currently has a 70d and I am debating whether to upgrade to either a R7, R8 or R6 Mk ii. I have had battery grips on both my APS-C bodies and find it annoying that you can't get this ability on either of the RF APS-C bodies (R& and 8), I think you can get a body extension but doesn't seem the same a the extra size and ease of handling that I think a battery grip gives me. I only have APS-C lenses apart from the Sigma 15-600 Sport and wondered on your thoughts of lenses for the R6 Mk ii ? Currently my main "do all" lens that I use for travel etc is a Sigma 18-300 and wondered if you think that the RF 24-240 would be a good RF len equivalent ?

[@RoyRiley]

Hi Adrian. Thanks for your comment and subscription. Much appreciated! The 70d is a great camera so my first response would be to say stick with what you have unless you really need to change. save your money and spend it on more exciting stuff than cameras! If however you are destined to change then "Welcome to the road to mirrorless!" I have not shot with any of the cameras you mention so cannot really comment and I have not tried the 24-240 but it is on my list.. I get the impression that its probably quite good so long as we understand the nature of the superzoom.. (they will never win any sharpness or character awards but they will certainly win the flexibility crown..) Hope this helps in some way..RR

[@adrianlynch9435]

@@RoyRiley Thanks for the immensley quick response. This is why I am thinking of upgrading, We are going to start going on holidays again and thought that the 70d was getting a bit long in the tooth and also I took some pictures with my Sigma 150-500 of bird across the garden and thought they were okay, I then saw on Twitter some from someone I follow of a robin taken on an R5 with Canon RF 100-500 and you can see every feather etc. So I upgraded by purchasing a Sigma 150-600 Sport and takking the same sort of pictures I do not get the pin sharp etc as per the R5/100-500 combo. Am I being too critical on me and my equipment ? Am I expecting the unachievable ? Am I chasing the unachievable and is this pointless from my point of view as it is a hobby and isn't my business as I am not a professional and don't do assignments and I don't get an income from it ? I did watch your Canon 70-300mm F4-5.6 and did wonder if an R6 mk ii with that would be an brilliant combo ?

[@RoyRiley]

@@adrianlynch9435 I think you have to remember that photography is a journey and not a destination. With bird photography in particular it can be rather more complicated than it seems. A tiny fast moving subject is always going to be challenging to shoot and there are many elements that are just as, if not more important than the camera and lenses. Lighting, proximity to subject, background, photographers technical skill, experience and knowledge and understanding of the subject. Its important to use other peoples work for inspiration but not to measure ourselves against it too much.. otherwise we just end up feeling bad and spending loads of money chasing the often impossible. with regard to bird photography in particular I would suggest that you throw a few more hours at it with the kit you already have.. when I say a few I mean lots. In the garden if that works for you or maybe (actually do this..) invest some time and go to a place that is good for bird watching.. many of them have hides all ready to go.. choose a good day when the light is good.. sunshine will help. try a few different settings. keep your shutter speed fast enough. study the pattern of movement of the birds and predict the moments before they happen. with the 70d I would just use the centre point AF and work with that. AI servo focus.. fast drive mode.. try zooming out slightly from the long end of your lens. close down a little from the maximum aperture for improved optical performance.. study the images after to see what works and what doesn't.. rinse and repeat. the 70d with the big sigma sports lens should bring home a few hum dingers! .Having said all that having an R5 and big RF lens is not going to be a hindrance! the AF of the mirrorless cameras is better for moving subjects in my opinion. With regard to holiday photography..70d and a superzoom is probably still perfect.. My challenge to you is to use the 70d and lenses you have for a little longer.. push them and yourself. Get to the point where you really really really know what you need to do..then you can crack the credit card out! Hope this helps in some way.. RR PS if you want to feel better about your 70d.. watch my video on the 10d. seven generations before!

[@AndySnap]

The R5 review I've most hoped to see... And a very fine review it proves to be too! Like you, I've found it both remarkable and frustrating to use. It's a neat body sans grip, but becomes quite a big & weighty thing with the (essential) grip+batteries. Essential because I find the R5 has quite an appetite for batteries, as compared to DSLRs. I've got through 5 batteries between 2 bodies on a day long job. I take the battery charger with me on long jobs just in case... The RF lenses are superbly sharp, but a handful to handle changing them. The EF 70-200mm F2.8 felt much better built than the RF too. The craziest thing about the R5 is that the electronic shutter works only as a silent shutter, no shutter sounds option! Bizarre. Makes it very strange shooting with the electronic shutter. After 9 months working with the R5, I like it, but don't love it.

[@RoyRiley]

Really happy to get your positive feedback Mr Higgins! Thanks for sharing your experience so far. Highly valuable.. I’m Still learning, still adapting but I’m now obligating to doing my absolute best to get the very best out of the R5. Time will ultimately tell! Take it easy up there man. All the best. RR

[@davepastern]

super review Roy. I feel you on the EVF - the lower end EVFs drive me crazy and I HATE them. For me, it's not the EVF size or pixel count, but the damn refresh rate. And Canon doesn't like to drop its EVF refresh rate in its specs.

[@RoyRiley]

Thanks David. To be fair the more I use it the more I feel comfortable with it. There are certain times that I would not be able to go back to an optical viewfinder but then on other occasions I pick up a DSLR and it just feels totally right for that moment.. complicated times!

[@davepastern]

​@@RoyRiley oh, EVF is the future don't get me wrong. The pan lag on the m50 II EVF is truly horrid. I have a Sony RX 100 II and the EVF for that (2.5 million dot OLED, 0.5", so same as most of the Canon mirrorless EVF lineup) is truly HORRID (again, refresh rate). I've tried the R6 EVF and it was GOOD. The R5 is even better by all accounts. I just wish Canon would put the damn same EVF in all of its line up and treat users eyes nicely.

[@SalmanAkhtar1]

I agree. EVF does the same to me after long use. Gives me motion sickness.

[@RoyRiley]

My EVF seasickness is improving with time.. I wish for yours to ease soon too

[@zvitkovits]

Thank you for your honest & balanced review which is very helpful. After more than one year of experience with the R5 how does the image quality compare to the 5D4? (Maybe resolution aside coz thats an advantage of course.) What would you like to add to your review today?

[@RoyRiley]

Thanks for this. It’s probably time for an update video. Really both cameras are so good that it makes it hard to find specific points. The improved AF on the R5 is a key point for me, as is the higher resolution for some of my clients. I had a few issues with colour but have that mostly sorted now. It’s just a different sensor so need handling differently. Ultimately image quality from both cameras is wonderful and it’s the photographer who makes the biggest difference. Hope this helps! RR

[@zvitkovits]

Thank you for your immediate response. A update video (long term review) would for sure highly welcomed by many. I have used the R5 several times and have been struggling with editing the (skin) colours a lot. This experience and my preference for the OVF are holding me back. I have been using mirrorless since 2018 (Fuji platform for private use; I use Canon for my professional work) and I still prefer the OVF. The (colors) of the RAW files out of the R5 remind me on the ones of the D850 but the R5 files seem ‚over-sharpened‘ to me. I actually preferred the files from the D850. But thats also dependent on the lens one uses. In general I wish reviews were more about platforms because the output is not only dependent on the sensor/body but even more so on the combination of sensor and lenses. Some thoughts as inspiration for your update.

[@LMActionsports]

When I switched over to mirrorless from my dslr’s. I said the same thing, i was going to use both. Well after i bought my second mirrorless I haven’t touched my dslr since. O still have it but it feels like stepping back into the flip phone era. Lol.

[@RoyRiley]

Haha! Yes. I can certainly elate to what you say. I’m still caught in the middle!

[@jeremiahyoung5931]

Awesome review. You brought up some unique interesting complex issues with the R5. Ive been interested in this camera but unable to justify spending that much. Is the R5 built solid enough? I heard it feels like a small toy. I love my 5DIV and 6DII so much they are tanks and so reliable. I've dropped them, fell into ditches with them, banged them on trees and they just keep going without issues. Battery lasts forever as well. It's the focusing and ability to crop that attracted me to the R5, especially for bird photography. Maybe I'm just too careless to have something so expensive or unwilling to adapt to change yet. Lol anyways thank you Roy.

[@RoyRiley]

Thanks Jeremiah! With regard to build quality so far my R5 has been fine. It does feels a bit lighter and more flimsy than say a 5d4 but that does not necessarily mean very much so long as it just keeps working.. only time will tell!

[@ampersandtay]

I took 2 of everything when I went in a job so I understood that

[@RoyRiley]

It’s a pain in the backside! The struggle is real.

[@danielson_9211]

I have had my R5 for 3 months now and yes the evf gave me a sort of vertigo for the first 2 weeks then I got used to it, I am a wildlife, birder and landscape guy and the camera is a work horse, yes you have to customize it for each genre, but once you have locked in man this is great. I notice when I was using the 14-35 it was good but then switched to the 15-35 and it gave the photos more character, hard to explain it. I did splurge on the 100-500mm, the Tamron was good but the miss rate or autofocus rate wasn't really up to para, guess I'm picky.

[@RoyRiley]

Thanks for this. Im still learning with this new system. Im going to look into different lenses as and when budget allows. Like the look of the 100-500!

[@856pm5]

I have used mine with Capture One and Rawtherapee, and honestly, the colors have generally been very pleasing for me. I am very happy with the output I get from RAWs on this camera. With the RF lenses, honestly, my favorite by far is the RF 85mm f/1.2, which is really a special lens --- amazing wide open. Along with a few of the Sigma Art lenses (esp. the 135mm f/1.8), this is one of my favorite lenses ever. The zooms are much more utilitarian in character. But 85mm f/1.2 is certainly uncommon no matter what. With adapting, I actually own a handful of basic EF-RF adapters and like to keep them on my various lenses I have on me at any time, so I keep them on the lens a lot of the time. The majority of my lenses are EF lenses, and many of those are Sigma EF lenses, all of which I've found to work brilliantly. Also worth mentioning is the EF-RF drop-in filter adapter. I have a Kolari Vision one, which is compatible with the Canon first-party adapter too. It is great to be able to throw in a little adjustable circular polarizer (or ND filter) on literally any EF lens and not have to carry differently-sized ones. Plus I can adjust it right by the camera and keep the hood on the lens. Excellent stuff.

[@RoyRiley]

Thanks for this great comment. I really appreciate your time and experience. Often I find myself not replying to the best comments I get because they are just so good and I feel like I need to write something equally brilliant in response but can always think of the words… hope that makes sense! I have not heard of Rawtherapee but really want to give it a go. Primes for the R5 are on my long term shopping list and I certainly appreciate your suggestions. All the very best. RR

[@stefyp2785]

Have you since bought the 28-70 f2 it’s got its own character I think you’ll love it

[@RoyRiley]

I would love to have this lens and should really invest but it’s damn expensive! And heavy! Maybe one day..RR

[@davefrancis2581]

Hi Roy what is your opinion on camera colour calibration? I have profiles on my 5D mk4 and seems to help as a good starting point cuts the editing time for me.

[@martingregory5955]

I come from film days so pretty much all manual including hand held light meter. I originally got a 200D as a DSLR and then 90D which I think is fantastic. A 5D iv used is on the radar just to try. The leap from SLR to DSLR is enough for me so no mirrorless for me for now.

[@RoyRiley]

90d may well be the holy grail

[@martindawson]

This is a great review. I was curious what your thoughts were because from what I’ve seen of photos that have come out of the R5 (and R6) whilst they are technically excellent, they lack that character and I wondered if it was just me. I have a 5D Classic, and am interested in upgrading, but I feel that the Canon DSLRs generate the character I think of when I’m thinking of Canon cameras.

[@RoyRiley]

I am conducting a test literally as we speak.. R5 v 5d Mk2. Just colour and look.. we will see. Lightroom is my weakness though

[@martindawson]

@@RoyRiley Excellent, I will be extremely interested in the results! Keep up the good work - you have a great channel.

[@larryconner363]

thanks for the help! Would you consider sharing your bulk import preset to fix the canon colors? Thanks.

[@RoyRiley]

Still a work in progress

[@nicolecole2310]

I feel validated after listening to this. I sold my 5div and I find myself looking and considering repurchasing it. I feel like it is more work to edit these. I have forever wanted autofocus points that weren't clustered in the center. I'm not sure the trade off is completely worth it. I have only ever used Canon. I feel like there is always a compromise of what I want vs what I get in an upgrade. Guess that's life.

[@RoyRiley]

Haha! We seem to find ourselves in a similar place.. from my perspective it’s all about using the best tool for the job. on balance I pick up the R5 much more than the 5div. Especially when shooting people.

[@stevenmeansphotography3861]

So do you rather the canon 5d mk iv

[@RoyRiley]

@@stevenmeansphotography3861 I like them both and use them both every day.

[@artemisd.9450]

Hello Roy! Thank you for your great videos. Which camera between the 5dmark4 and the r5 performs best in low light situations in your opinion ? I want to upgrade my 80D as I struggle whenever I take a picture indoors, whether it's my home or a church or a castle/museum... But I'm not sure which camera body will be best between the two above!

[@RoyRiley]

Honestly they are both very very good.. but then so is the 80D.. what lenses are you using?

[@artemisd.9450]

@@RoyRiley Thank you for your answer! Surely the 5dmIV must be better in low light than the 80D? I have the 17-55mm 2.8 on my camera, so not the kit lens. I really don't know what to choose. I like my dslr and the ovf, but I really don't like the fixed screen of the 5dmark4... And the r5 seems to retain much more information than the 5dm4 from what I've seen on KZbin. I'm not a professional obviously, just an enthusiast, and I do a bit of everything, portrait, architecture, group photos for the family, and I'm happy with what I get outdoors, but low light situations are quite frequent scenarios, wether it's shooting a birthday party, Christmas family time, or any castle we can visit as a family.

[@fuzzytalz]

I had issues with color as well-in particular, a magenta cast in shadows that only gets worse when recovering shadow information. I use Capture One and even though the colors are better by default than Lightroom/ACR. they are still nowhere as accurate, pleasing or malleable as in files from my Nikon Z7/Z7II and Z9. In terms of handling, I found using the mode dial at the back, right edge of the body was uncomfortable (it's positioned too far forward and is too short for positive traction with my thumb) and the AF joystick is unreachable with my hand positioned to use the shutter and main control dial. And the rear controls on the accessory vertical grip are so different from the horizontal layout of the body, I never could use it fluidly in the nearly 24 months I had the camera. I hope your longterm experience is more rewarding than mine was. Cheers!

[@RoyRiley]

Thanks for this Garland! very interested to hear your experiences. I have a few people telling me to try the Z9.. we will see! Im going to give the R5 a good go first before looking elsewhere.. Thanks for sharing your thoughts. R

[@Twobarpsi]

Subscribed!

[@RoyRiley]

Cheers! Much appreciated

[@joedonohoe22]

Great video, Roy. Where are you at now with your transition from DSLR to mirrorless? I need to invest in a camera and am torn between a 2nd-hand 5DIV and a new R6 Mark II. Love the immediacy of the OVF…

[@RoyRiley]

Well I’ve been using the R5 for over a year now. Probably at least 100k pictures taken. I am still learning but mostly I love it more and more. All of the issues I mentioned I. The video are still factors but I have learnt to either live with or found work arounds for most. The AF on the mirrorless cameras is for me the biggest positive. It’s very very good. I do still find the R5 a bit confusing at times but overall it really is a great camera and if I can’t do it with the R5 then really it’s on me as the photographer. As for your decision.. what do you mostly shoot? And what lenses do you already have?

[@joedonohoe22]

@@RoyRiley That’s really interesting to hear, Roy. Sounds like the R5 is now your main shooter and you’re enjoying the experience! I mainly shoot events, BTS shoots and occasional portraits. I also have my first wedding in a couple of month’s time. Still fairly new to the game, so I tend to rent 5DIVs with either the 28-70 F2.8 or the 24-105 F4 when it’s paid work. I also own a prehistoric 60D(!) and a 50mm 1.8 for casual use and practice. I do find the 5DIV very heavy, but I’ve always enjoyed shooting it. Obvious advantages of mirrorless seem to be the AF (as you mentioned) and a lighter form-factor. I don’t have a huge budget to play with (around £2k), so finding it difficult to decide. Great channel, btw. Top-notch advice without any hyperbole!

[@RoyRiley]

@@joedonohoe22 cheers! 60d is still a great camera. I had one for a while a few years ago and was very impressed.. good back up camera too I guess. I dont think you will go far wrong with either of the cameras you mentioned. R6 original is also a very good camera at a reasonable used price point these days

[@ZombieRofl]

You can get a R next to the R5 as backup. For for the prime you should get the 50mm 1.2. I have the Sigma 85mm art. It’s big, but for the money it’s very good stuf 👍 Little tip: please add some time stamps in your videos 😉

[@niceyesplease]

Actually, the Sigma 85 Art is incredible. The RF 50 1.2 too, however it could be better for the price tag it has, still the output is magical.

[@RoyRiley]

Cheers ZR! Yes time stamps would help people navigate through my ramblings.. Apologies.. I will learn to do it. I have the sigma art 50 which does pretty well. Big and heavy but very sharp.. there are a few other lenses Im interested in getting for the R5 when money allows

[@RoyRiley]

might try to get hold of one of the art 85s. that big old RF50 1.2 is tempting but so is keeping my vital organs!

[@josephpeppard561]

Oh Roy, I'm a dinosaur too and have been a photographer for over 50 years. If I can make the transition rather seamlessly to the R5 I have every confidence you'll be just fine. I currently use EF and a few RF lenses as well. I too feel the EF lenses have more character especially the primes e.g. the Canon EF 135mm f/2 L lens. They work flawlessly as well with the R5.

[@RoyRiley]

Thanks Joseph! interesting stuff! I have been amazed how well the EF lenses do on the R5. Ive also been playing with an adaptor and a very old M42 50mm.. very interesting..

[@josephpeppard561]

@@RoyRiley I'm so impressed with how you can adapt different lenses with Canon's mirrorless system. I also really like the results with the Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8 II L lens with the R5. I know there is a learning curve Roy for us dinosaurs, but you've taken the leap and on the path with the amazing new technology of the R5. The autofocus, dynamic range, IBIS and color rendition are truly outstanding. Wishing you great success going forward. Cheers mate!

[@AnandaGarden]

Dino clubber here. (I'm 80). I simplified the R6 by assigning a button to switch between eye tracking and single-point autofocus. Make that little uppity camera do my will.

[@RoyRiley]

@@AnandaGarden I’ve been using that option too! Very effective!

[@palouuk]

On a technical note, I don't think there has ever been a standardised colour space even back in film days. I remember Fuji film having a green cast compared to say Kodak. I got a colour checker passport thing for Xmas, which is meant give you a perfect profile for Lightroom etc, but I haven't used it yet

[@RoyRiley]

I agree. I always think of canon cameras having the kodak look and Nikon being a bit more Fuji.. remember the soft tones of Agfa?

[@palouuk]

@@RoyRiley I never shot any Agfa. Just fuji and a little Kodak and a whole lot of Ilford for B/w. I remember fuji being cheap

[@valentinmikleu]

Could you please please share that preset that you apply above Adobe Color matching profile for R5 ? I am strugling with colors so so much. Thank you!

[@RoyRiley]

Still a work in progress im afraid. Every shoot seems to require something a little different

[@philshock3805]

As a fellow pro dinosaur (30+ years for me), I really appreciate your comments. Just picked up two R5 bodies and haven't even charged the batteries yet. I've created photographs using 8x10 view cameras, to oatmeal boxes, to everything in-between ... yet I have to admit, these mirrorless cameras are a bit daunting. Especially considering I'm coming from a Canon pro flagship experience for close to the last 20 years. (Current system - 1Dx MK IIs and MK Is - they literally feel like part of me). If I was still shooting sports, I probably would've opted for R3s but since I don't, loosing the bulk is welcome. (At least I hope so - these things are TINY! Grips are definitely in my future. lol) Still not sure how I feel about viewing a video representation of the scene rather than the scene itself but time will tell. One thing I'm really looking forward to is the pivoting screen. Getting up and down off the ground isn't as easy as it once was! :) Thanks for helping me with this new journey!

[@RoyRiley]

Thanks Phil! My advice is to give yourself plenty of time to become comfortable with these cameras.. it can take a while for us old school types! I am really enjoying the R5 now but it’s taken a while… if you need a hand with anything just drop me a line. All the best. Roy

[@miked.7722]

Many pros LOVE! DXO Pure Raw, many being birders to who color is almost everything. Then bring the files into Lightroom.

[@RoyRiley]

I dont have much experience with this software but might give it a throw with the latest version. Thanks. R

[@subbbass]

if you use ef-glass and the adapter for the R5 you have your backup or are the new lenses so much better that you don't want to miss them?

[@RoyRiley]

I’m juggling both RF and EF lenses at present. It’s workable but a faff. Optically the RF lenses are great but in my opinion build quality might not be up to the old EF tanks.. time will tell!

[@neilbailey2893]

Greetings from a fellow dinosaur. Made the same switch from 5D Mk iv to R5 last April. Learning curve definitely steeper than anticipated but worth the effort. Use DPP for my RAW shots, but increasingly using HEIF for day to day shots. I think the RF 23-105 f4 L is a huge improvement over the equivalent EF, and will migrate to RF glass over the coming months.

[@RoyRiley]

I have been meaning to give HEIF a go.. any tips?

[@kunstfuhrer]

Hello Roy! How are you doing? I wanted to ask you about the 40mm f2.8 stm pancake, what do you think about it and have you ever tried it on a mirrorless canon camera? Btw you're absolutely right about evf, I just cat't get used to it

[@RoyRiley]

Only used one a few times. Interesting lens. Ultra small and Very sharp from my limited experience. No experience on a mirrorless but can see no reason why it would not be fine

[@kunstfuhrer]

Thanks for the answer, I have an idea to maka a superlight setup with 40 mil and r8 camera)

[@RoyRiley]

@@kunstfuhrer sounds interesting. I hd a 40mm Pentax lens many many years ago and it’s a lovely focal length.

[@chaitanya1984]

Great video Roy. What did you mean by ‘struggling to find character in these lenses’?

[@RoyRiley]

Character for me means some unique quality that makes me love using the lens. A lens that produces photographs that have great “feel” rather than just being technically perfect. Prime lenses tend to have more character than standard zooms but are obviously less flexible. Hope this makes some sense. It’s all down to personal preference.

[@chaitanya1984]

Thanks for the clarification. Stumbled upon your channel about a year ago and became a fan of the no nonsense, unbiased opinions about equipment one might actually consider owning. Cheers. P.S. the April fools video was cool addition too.

[@lifetimesofamultiplemediam1003]

If you are a Dinosaur, who's been shooting with a 5Dmk4 for five years, you are definitely "Neolithic Man". As for me, I must be Paleolithic, as I'm still shooting with a 6D Classic, and moving backwards, recently purchasing a EOS 1n!… I know how you feel though, as I am feeling it too. I'm thinking of maybe trying an EOS R sometime in 2023… The thought of it makes me sea-sick though! Keep on keeping on! Us Dino-guys are watching what happens to you!… 😎

[@kibbsnowden6893]

I have a R 5 and the colors really pop in Lightroom , maybe it is the camera you received...;)

[@RoyRiley]

I did think about that in my darkest hour but honestly I don’t think so. These days I’m actually quite happy with the camera. Think it’s more me rather than a dodgy camera

[@kibbsnowden6893]

@@RoyRiley it took me a while to get it all straight, it’s different from a DSLR camera…😝

[@rhiannonstudios]

This explains why when my mate bought an R6 MKII his images went immediately down hill, his focus was spot on but colours and contrast didn’t look as nice as his old DSLR, I’m not going to bother, raw images out of my 70D look fantastic, are full of character and sell OK, I’m far from being convinced about these new Mirrorless efforts from Canon. Great video though, thanks mate, subscribed 👍🏻

[@RoyRiley]

On balance that video was about a year ago and I’m a few hundred thousand shots in with the R5. As time has passed I have become much more positive about the R5. I have worked out a few ways of getting good colour in n Lightroom and become much more familiar with the controls. Took me a while but then I am a dinosaur! The cameras is still working fine but did suffer the wobbly hotshoe issue which is a big pain. On balance in my opinion, for what I do, the RF cameras are a big step up in nearly every way from the older DSLR cameras. Colour is one area where there is mixed opinion but you can get great colour from them with a bit of care. That does not mean to say that the older cameras are of no use or less good at taking pictures. A good frame is a good frame and will sell well whatever it’s shot on! Thanks for your comment and subscription! When I get a free day I will make an update on the R5.. long overdue but I’ve been ramrod busy

[@rhiannonstudios]

@@RoyRiley Thanks for the reply, will look forward to the update 👍🏻

[@gohumberto]

Great channel. I'm more of an old dinosaur than you. I have a Canon 6D and I'm thinking about getting a 5D mk4. I know Mirrorless is the future (I have a Canon M50, a much underrated camera for the price) but I've always been behind the curve, waiting for products to be tested to destruction. I'm an enthusiastic amateur and I feel that the 5D4 may be a camera for life (given that some pro-bodies have a million clicks on them). I'd honestly stick with the 6D but I want the confidence of Pro weather-sealing. Mind you, given that a used 6D can be had for about £400 (ridiculous really), I may as well keep it.

[@RoyRiley]

Thanks GH! The deep question you need to ask is what will a new camera do that your 6D cannot? I have limited experience of the 6D but what I do know is that they are very well built and will take a beating. If your getting the pictures you are hoping to get them stick with it and spend your money on living unwisely.. that said the 5D4 is also a beast and a step up for sure.. I have some content on the 5D4 on my channel that may be of interest to you

[@FlatWaterFilms]

I'm still trying to master the 5D IV. At the age of 69, most likely I'll stick to what I already have. Waiting for a new LCD screen as I burned a hole in it with the Zacuto Z- finder. Video is work when using those f/2.8 lens on the 5D, No video stabilization. Good review Roy. I'll be saving my money and using the old work horse.

[@RoyRiley]

How the heck did the Z finder do that? out in the sunshine? ouch! Well you have a few years on me so I take my hat off to you Sir! 5DIV is still very very very very good in my opinion.

[@FlatWaterFilms]

@@RoyRiley 40 minutes away from my house is the ONLY camera repair service in the entire midwest (5 state area). Cash sales only, walked in and he looked at my camera within 5 minutes and ordered a new LCD. Straightened out a lens thread on a 15-35 f/2.8 that was damaged. Took him less than 5 minutes and now is good as new. Love the Z-finder!

[@RoyRiley]

@@FlatWaterFilms Nice! Its rare to find that kind of service these days. I just recently dropped my 70-300. Canon wanted it for an undisclosed period of time and thought it might cost £400 to fix.. I got a new part (silver lens mount) and fixed it myself.. actually not that tricky but obviously it would be easy to F^$k the whole thing up, Luckily its worked fine ever since!

[@FlatWaterFilms]

@@RoyRiley Roy, updated to the R5 a month ago. Amazing camera, I' am happy.

[@gotja]

I jumped and I could never go back. Tbh the rf 70-200 really sold me just weight wise for work

[@RoyRiley]

Did you get the 2.8 or f4? Any issues?

[@gotja]

@@RoyRiley 2.8! It was really about the size for right travel for work

[@ccoppola82]

Love the channel. I bought an R when it first came out. I have to say that I greatly enjoy my 5dsr and 1dx much more. I was under the false impression that the RF Mount would allow for more compact lenses on the smaller body, but it seems canon has decided to make extra large pro lenses to go with the smaller bodies. This is ergonomically unpleasant to me personally. I find the heavier DSLR bodies far better balanced with the L glass than the RF system. I have the 35mm 1.8 and it is fine but I don’t trust it to survive some places I go. I’ve held off on investing in the system in the hope that canon will introduce a compact line of weather sealed L lenses. I feel many photographers would buy into the system if it were more fun to actually carry around and use. The gap between the 50mm 1.2 and 50mm 1.8 for example is just crazy IMHO. The 1.2 is a $2000 bazooka and the 1.8 is $150 and chintzy. Why can’t we get a 50mm L at 1.4 for 8-900$ with full weather sealing, reasonably compact, with USM focusing? Anyway, this alone has caused me to look into Fuji even though I sacrifice IQ.

[@tebogdanescu7970]

Roy, your instinct says: ditch this new age crap, go classic. You have the looks, the tools and the eye of a classic photographer.

[@RoyRiley]

Over the years I have had many internal and external battles with technology. Black and white to colour. 120 to 35mm. Tranny to C41. Manual to AF. Film to digital and now DSLR to Mirrorless. Each one has been hard fought but most often and remembering that I am ultimately working for money and so delivering a service, the newer technology has come out on top. Now I still love shooting black and white film in my Rolleiflex but it might well not be the best tool for the job in some circumstances. I am still learning to make full use of the R5 and I dont think it’s right for everyone but there are many occasions when it’s definitely the best tool for the job.. that’s why I’m Going down the R5 road! I think we probably would have a great conversation if we ever got together.. all the best to you and yours this Sunday. Best wishes. RR

[@tebogdanescu7970]

@@RoyRiley Determined man! Hat off to that. We'll what the future brings in regards to that beer you offered :)

[@bnkakl]

colors - SAME! i hated the colors - i spoke to canon and they were pretty rude about it - i felt they shiift towards red/magenta. i got so sick of it. So i moved to capture 1 and PS. but yes the colors are not so good - just had to change a few things, change workflow and now i am kind of used to it. I believe the r3 colors are fantastic tho. nice video.

[@RoyRiley]

Glad we arrived at the same conclusion.. I am interested in the sensor in the R3.. I believe it’s the same as the R6? And I even heard it was the same as the 1dx mark 3?

[@rameshravihar6980]

Hi I really learn a lot from your videos . I am a néw subscriber. I am having a canon 5d mark 4 . and what my question is , is canon 5d mark 4 producing enough image quality for professional big prints , and is it worth moving to a mirrorless high megapixel camera ? cheers

[@RoyRiley]

Hi Ramesh. 5d4 is very fine for big prints. I just had some work blown up to billboard size and they looked great. Watch my recent video on the R5 for my thoughts on that camera. All the best. R

[@rameshravihar6980]

@@RoyRiley thank you so much . I will watch it

[@mberggren9768]

In my amateur opinion, the RF line of glass lacks the character of the EF lenses made between something like 1995 to about 2010. They remind me of the later EF stuff, like the 35/1,4L II, the 85/1.4L IS and 24-70/2.8L II. Super sharp, high resolution lenses, but a bit lacking in character. They feel a bit sterile. But they are probably popular today, since the whole photography world has been focusing on detail, sharpness and dynamic range in the last ten years. I will probably by into the RF line sooner or later, but I will probably stick with my old EF stuff for now. Thanks for the review. It confirmed what I suspected. Amazing technology, but not without flaws yet. Not saying it isn’t the future of interchangeable lens cameras, but maybe not necessary for amateurs like me either.

[@RoyRiley]

I am glad you got something from the video. Good luck on your photography journey. RR

[@9kat53]

But do you *love the pictures you get from the R5 and RF glass? Parents routinely just gasp with happiness when they first see their images from 5dm3, they are so happy. Just such delight. And from the Sony a7r3 and Sigma Art set-up, there are positive responses. But not the gasp of surprise and happiness like from the 5dm3. The Sony pictures look green and flat, even after processing. Is the "Canon magic" gone with Canon mirrorless? I've gone back to doing the big portraits of each child during a session and the over the sofa shots with the 5dm3.

[@RoyRiley]

Interesting comment! Thanks. I can only speak for myself and others may have a different opinion but I do still struggle with the colour from the R5. I have used all of the different bits of software and have finally created my own bespoke workflow that works very well but I do still find myself looking g back at older DSLR pictures that just seem to have some juju magic pretty much straight out of the camera. That said when I do a direct comparison it is very difficult to see any specific difference so I do wonder how much of it is in my mind! One of these days I will do a 5d3 v R5 colour video.. thanks again for your thought provoking comment.

[@RobertThrall-yj2bi]

Very interested to know if anyone has switched back to DSLRs after mirrorless? It could be an expensive folly if you got it wrong.

[@RoyRiley]

It’s an interesting question. I can certainly understand why some might consider the move back. Like you say.. expensive though!