© 2021 Birds in Latin
Since mid-November 2024, we’ve been proud owners of the Canon EOS R1. On the very last day of the year, we even added a second body along with another true gem of a lens: the Canon RF 100-300mm f/2.8 L IS USM.
Using the EOS R1 for bird photography instantly reminded me of something a friend of mine, Gustav Kiburg – a well-known Dutch nature photographer and Sony Europe Imaging Ambassador – often says:
“Using his Sony A1 or A1 Mark II in a photo contest feels almost unfair. They’re that good.”
Although I’ve never had the chance to try one myself, there was a moment when I almost switched to Sony. At the time, I was frustrated with recurring issues with my Canon gear and ready to give up. Luckily, my trusted dealer, Colorwood Photo in Waddinxveen (Netherlands), convinced me to wait for the EOS R1 release. I’m glad I did, because Canon has delivered something truly exceptional.
Autofocus That Redefines Speed
As a bird photographer, I can confidently say the EOS R1 is a masterpiece. Its autofocus and eye recognition are lightning-fast – as quick as Max Verstappen on his best race days. Even through dense vegetation, the camera locks onto the subject’s eyes with incredible precision. Thanks to the Pre-Capture function, you’ll never miss those once-in-a-lifetime action shots again.
I have been shooting the EOS R1 now for roughly 2 months and ***NEWSFLASH***
Using the EOS R1 in any photo contest is effectively cheating. It is that good.
Image Quality and Performance
Before, I would often discard 90% of my shots after a session. With the EOS R1, only a handful end up in the bin. Most of the images now range from usable 4-star quality to outstanding 5-star keepers.
Shooting at 40 frames per second with the 24.2-megapixel sensor is breathtaking, though you’ll need to prepare for extra storage space. Another highlight is the crystal-clear 9.44-million-dot EVF, which delivers an incredibly bright and natural viewing experience in the field.
Worth the Investment
Yes, the price tag – around €7,500 – is steep and can feel overwhelming. But after weeks of use, I can honestly say the EOS R1 is worth every cent. It’s solid, customizable, and inspires confidence every time I take it out into nature.
I’ve always trusted Canon, but with the EOS R1, the brand has raised the bar to a level that will turn any photographer into a believer. For wildlife and bird photography, it’s nothing short of a game changer.
