The Canon EOS R8 is finally in my hands, and I couldn’t wait to test it with the RF 70-200mm f/2.8 L IS USM lens. After using the Canon 7D and 5D Mark III for years, transitioning to this mirrorless camera felt exciting. For my first test, we took it out for a relaxing nature walk our my dog to get a feel for its performance.

First Impressions of the Canon EOS R8

The first thing that struck me about the Canon EOS R8 was its size. Coming from larger DSLRs like the Canon 7D and 5D Mark III, this camera felt incredibly compact. Although I miss the solid feel of the 5D Mark III, I certainly don’t miss its weight. The EOS R8 is noticeably lighter, making it a joy to carry around on longer walks. However, I did find myself adjusting to the new button placements and missing the joystick, which was a staple on my previous cameras. Over time, I know muscle memory will adapt, but it’s something to get used to.

Compact but Mighty: The RF 70-200mm f/2.8 L IS USM Lens

Equally impressive was the RF 70-200mm f/2.8 L IS USM lens. It is much smaller than the EF 70-200mm version, which took me by surprise. The compact design makes it easier to handle, and it pairs perfectly with the lightweight EOS R8 body. What really blew me away was the lens’ sharpness. The images I captured were incredibly crisp, with each detail standing out, almost like a “ninja cut,” as sharp as you could imagine.

Overall Experience So Far

After my first nature walk with the Canon EOS R8 and RF 70-200mm lens, I am really impressed. The lighter body and compact lens make it ideal for on-the-go photography. I’m excited to dive deeper into the features of this camera and truly unlock its potential. So far, the experience has been amazing, and I look forward to more adventures with this perfect combination.

In conclusion, the Canon EOS R8 paired with the RF 70-200mm f/2.8 L IS USM is a game changer for those transitioning from Mirrorless DSLRs. The size and weight alone make it a worthy upgrade.