Canon quietly announces the EL-1 Version 2

Canon has recently launched the EL1 V2 Speedlite EL-1 Version 2, an upgrade to its EL-1 flash, in addition to the RS-80E3 Remote Switch and firmware for the EOS R6 Mark II and EOS R8. B&H Photo Video's press release indicates that these products are intended to address specific challenges faced by photographers, and remains useful for those primarily engaged in portraiture, weddings or studio work.

The EL1 V2 Speedlite improves on the previous EL-1, which had received a mixed reception largely because of its expense and complexity. It manages to keep the same output of 60m at ISO 100 and 200mm, and a minimum flash output of 1/8192, giving the photographer finer control of flash output for capturing images in varying light situations, for instance, portraiture and still life work. The new model introduces a completely new interface, new bells and whistles, and can address the shortcomings of the EL-1 as a useful flash in the field. It appears to follow the design and weather sealing as Canon's EOs-1D series model cameras. It is built just for that, for durability in the hands of professional photographers in the field in adverse conditions.

Additionally, Canon has introduced firmware with a cropping guide feature, now preloaded on the EOS R6 Mark II and EOS R8. Previously available on APS-C EOS R cameras, this firmware provides four in-camera cropping guides to assist with portrait framing. This can streamline composition for photographers who prefer to finalize their shots in-camera, reducing post-processing time. The R6 Mark II and R8 are capable full-frame mirrorless cameras, and this firmware aims to enhance their appeal for portrait and event work.

Canon EL-1 Verion 2 Key Features

2.4 GHz Wireless Radio Transmission
Compatible with Canon E-TTL / E-TTL II
Guide Number: 190.3" at ISO 100 & 200mm
0.9 sec Recycling, 340 FP Flashes
Zoom Range: 24-200mm
Rotates Left & Right 180°
Xenon Flashtube, 1/1 to 1/8192 Power
Weather-Sealed, Active Cooling System
Bounce Adapter & Hard Color Filters
Runs on LP-EL Lithium-Ion Battery

Purchase the Canon EL-1 Version 2

Canon RS-80E3

The RS-80E3 Remote Switch is a new wired remote with a single button dedicated to the purpose of triggering a camera. This is a helpful tool for wildcard in studio photography to avoid any camera shake when doing long exposures or macro photography. It serves the purpose of a traditional cable release. When the photographer uses the RS-80E3 with the EL1 V2 it helps establish a controlled workflow for multia-camera shoots when it functions effectively for each photographer's needs.