21 December 2025

Canon Photography Training Milnerton, Cape Town

Photography Training / Skills Development Milnerton, Cape Town and Cape Peninsula

Personalised Canon EOS / Canon EOS R Training for Different Learning Levels

Fast Shutter Speed / Action Photography Training Woodbridge Island, Cape Town
Fast Shutter Speed / Action Photography Training Woodbridge Island, Cape Town

Vernon Chalmers Photography Approach

Vernon Canon Photography Training Cape Town / Cape Peninsula

"If you’re looking for Canon photography training in Milnerton, Cape Town, Vernon Chalmers Photography offers a variety of cost-effective courses tailored to different skill levels and interests. They provide one-on-one training sessions for Canon EOS DSLR and EOS R mirrorless cameras, covering topics such as:
  • Introduction to Photography
  • Bird and Flower Photography
  • Macro and Close-Up Photography
  • Landscape and Long Exposure Photography
  • Canon Speedlite Flash Photography

Training sessions can be held at various locations, including Woodbridge Island and Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, or even in the comfort of your own home or garden. (Microsoft Copilot)

Canon EOS / EOS R Camera and Photography

Cost-Effective Private Canon EOS / EOS R Camera and Photography tutoring / training courses in Milnerton, Cape Town - or in the comfort of your home / garden anywhere in the Cape Peninsula.

Tailor-made (individual) learning programmes are prepared for specific Canon EOS / EOS R camera and photography requirements with the following objectives:
  • Individual Needs / Gear analysis
  • Canon EOS camera menus / settings
  • Exposure settings and options
  • Specific genre applications and skills development
  • Practical shooting sessions (where applicable)
  • Post-processing overview
  • Ongoing support

Image Post-Processing / Workflow Overview
As part of my genre-specific photography training, I offer an introductory overview of post-processing workflows (if required) using Adobe Lightroom, Canon Digital Photo Professional (DPP) and Topaz Photo AI. This introductory module is tailored to each delegate’s JPG / RAW image requirements and provides a practical foundation for image refinement, image management, and creative expression - ensuring a seamless transition from capture to final output.


Canon Camera / Lens Requirements
Any Canon EOS / EOS R body / lens combination is suitable for most of the training sessions. During initial contact I will determine the learner's current skills, Canon EOS system and other learning / photographic requirements. Many Canon PowerShot camera models are also suitable for creative photography skills development.

Camera and Photgraphy Training Documentation
All Vernon Chalmers Photography Training delegates are issued with a folder with all relevant printed documentation  in terms of camera and personal photography requirements. Documents may be added (if required) to every follow-up session (should the delegate decide to have two or more sessions).

Small Butterfly Woodbridge Island - Canon EF 100-400mm Lens
Cabbage White Butterfly Woodbridge Island - Canon EF 100-400mm Lens

Learning Photography from the comfort of your Own Cape Town Home / Garden More Information

Bird / Flower Photography Training Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden More Information

Photography Private Training Classes Milnerton, Cape Town
  • Introduction to Photography / Canon Cameras More
  • Bird / Flower Photography Training Kirstenbosch More
  • Birds in Flight / Bird Photography Training More
  • Canon Speedlite Flash Photography Training More
  • Macro / Close-Up Photography More
  • Landscape / Long Exposure Photography More

Training / demonstrations are done on the client's own Canon EOS bodies attached to various Canon EF / other brand lenses covering wide-angle to zoom focal lengths.

Canon EOS System / Menu Setup and Training Cape Town
Canon EOS System / Menu Setup and Training Cape Town

2025 Individual Photography Training Session Cost / Rates

From R850-00 per four hour session for Introductory Canon EOS / EOS R photography in Milnerton, Cape Town. Practical shooting sessions can be worked into the training. A typical training programme of three training sessions is R2 450-00.

From R900-00 per four hour session for developing . more advanced Canon EOS / EOS R photography in Milnerton, Cape Town. Practical shooting sessions can be worked into the training. A typical training programme of three training sessions is R2 600-00.

Three sessions of training to be up to 12 hours+ theory / settings training (inclusive: a three hours practical shoot around Woodbridge Island if required) and an Adobe Lightroom informal assessment / of images taken - irrespective of genre. 

Canon EOS Cameras / Lenses / Speedlite Flash Training
All Canon EOS cameras from the EOS 1100D to advanced AF training on the Canon EOS 80D to Canon EOS-1D X Mark III. All Canon EOS R Cameras. All Canon EF / EF-S / RF / RF-S and other Canon-compatible brand lenses. All Canon Speedlite flash units from Canon Speedlite 270EX to Canon Speedlite 600EX II-RT (including Macro Ring Lite flash models).

Intaka Island Photography Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM Lens
Intaka Island Photography Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM Lens

Advanced Canon EOS Autofocus Training (Canon EOS / EOS R)
For advanced Autofocus (AF) training have a look at the Birds in Flight Photography workshop options. Advanced AF training is available from the Canon EOS 7D Mark II / Canon EOS 5D Mark III / Canon EOS 5D Mark IV up to the Canon EOS 1-DX Mark II / III. Most Canon EOS R bodies (i.e. EOS R7, EOS R6, EOS R6 Mark II, EOS R5, EOS R5 Mark II, EOS R3, EOS R1) will have similar or more advanced Dual Pixel CMOS AF Systems. Contact me for more information about a specific Canon EOS / EOS R AF System.

Cape Town Photography Training Schedules / Availability
From Tuesdays - during the day / evening and / or over weekends.

Canon EOS / Close-Up Lens Accessories Training Cape Town
Canon EOS / Close-Up Lens Accessories Training Cape Town

Core Canon Camera / Photography Learning Areas
  • Overview & Specific Canon Camera / Lens Settings
  • Exposure Settings for M / Av / Tv Modes
  • Autofocus / Manual Focus Options
  • General Photography / Lens Selection / Settings
  • Transition from JPG to RAW (Reasons why)
  • Landscape Photography / Settings / Filters
  • Close-Up / Macro Photography / Settings
  • Speedlite Flash / Flash Modes / Flash Settings
  • Digital Image Management

Practical Photography / Application
  • Inter-relationship of ISO / Aperture / Shutter Speed
  • Aperture and Depth of Field demonstration
  • Low light / Long Exposure demonstration
  • Landscape sessions / Manual focusing
  • Speedlite Flash application / technique
  • Introduction to Post-Processing

Tailor-made Canon Camera / Photography training to be facilitated on specific requirements after a thorough needs-analysis with individual photographer / or small group.

  • Typical Learning Areas Agenda
  • General Photography Challenges / Fundamentals
  • Exposure Overview (ISO / Aperture / Shutter Speed)
  • Canon EOS 70D Menus / Settings (in relation to exposure)
  • Camera / Lens Settings (in relation to application / genres)
  • Lens Selection / Technique (in relation to application / genres)
  • Introduction to Canon Flash / Low Light Photography
  • Still Photography Only

Above Learning Areas are facilitated over two  three sessions of four hours+ each. Any additional practical photography sessions (if required) will be at an additional pro-rata cost.

Fireworks Display Photography with Canon EOS 6D : Cape Town
Fireworks Display Photography with Canon EOS 6D : Cape Town

From Woodbridge Island : Canon EOS 6D / 16-35mm Lens
From Woodbridge Island : Canon EOS 6D / 16-35mm Lens

Existential Photo-Creativity : Slow Shutter Speed Abstract Application
Existential Photo-Creativity : Slow Shutter Speed Abstract Application

Perched Pied Kingfisher : Canon EOS 7D Mark II / 400mm Lens
Perched Pied Kingfisher : Canon EOS 7D Mark II / 400mm Lens

Long Exposure Photography: Canon EOS 700D / Wide-Angle Lens
Long Exposure Photography: Canon EOS 700D / Wide-Angle Lens

Birds in Flight (Swift Tern) : Canon EOS 7D Mark II / 400mm lens
Birds in Flight (Swift Tern) : Canon EOS 7D Mark II / 400mm lens

Persian Cat Portrait : Canon EOS 6D / 70-300mm f/4-5.6L IS USM Lens
Persian Cat Portrait : Canon EOS 6D / 70-300mm f/4-5.6L IS USM Lens

Fashion Photography Canon Speedlite flash : Canon EOS 6D @ 70mm
Fashion Photography Canon Speedlite flash : Canon EOS 6D @ 70mm

Long Exposure Photography Canon EOS 6D : Milnerton
Long Exposure Photography Canon EOS 6D : Milnerton

Close-Up & Macro Photography Cape Town : Canon EOS 6D
Close-Up & Macro Photography Cape Town : Canon EOS 6D

Panning / Slow Shutter Speed: Canon EOS 70D EF 70-300mm Lens
Panning / Slow Shutter Speed: Canon EOS 70D EF 70-300mm Lens

Long Exposure Photography Cape Town Canon EOS 6D @ f/16
Long Exposure Photography Cape Town Canon EOS 6D @ f/16

Canon Photography Training Session at Spier Wine Farm

Canon Photography Training Courses Milnerton Woodbridge Island | Kirstenbosch Garden

Canon EOS R7 Mark II vs. Canon EOS R7

Key Differences for Birds in Flight and Wildlife Photography

Canon EOS R7 Mark II vs. Canon EOS R7
Canon EOS R7
Introduction

"In wildlife and birds in flight (BIF) photography, camera performance under dynamic conditions is paramount. Photographers demand rapid autofocus, high burst rates, low-light capability, robust subject tracking, and handling that excels in diverse field environments. Canon’s APS-C mirrorless line-up, particularly the EOS R7, has been widely adopted by enthusiasts and professional wildlife shooters due to its blend of performance and value. As Canon prepares to launch the EOS R7 Mark II, many photographers are assessing how it compares to the original model and whether it delivers meaningful gains for wildlife use.

This comparative analysis will explore key technical and practical differences between these two cameras and explain how they impact BIF and wildlife photography. The sections that follow address sensor and image quality, autofocus and subject tracking, burst and buffer performance, video capabilities, image stabilization, ergonomics and handling, connectivity and workflow, battery performance, lens ecosystem, and real-world considerations.

Sensor and Image Quality

The EOS R7 debuted with a 32.5-megapixel APS-C sensor, which combines significant resolution with an APS-C crop factor (1.6x) that effectively extends telephoto reach for wildlife subjects — a notable advantage when photographing distant birds and animals. Its sensor and DIGIC X processor deliver excellent detail and noise performance in daylight conditions, supporting sizable crops without severe degradation. This is particularly useful in BIF photography where tight framing is often required after capture. (Wikipedia)

Anticipated upgrades to the EOS R7 Mark II largely center on sensor architecture. Multiple reports suggest Canon will adopt a stacked sensor design — likely similar to that seen in high-end bodies like the EOS R3 — which brings considerably faster readout speeds and reduced rolling shutter artifacts compared to the R7’s conventional CMOS sensor. A stacked sensor improves performance during electronic shutter operation, a mode frequently used for high-speed continuous shooting in wildlife scenarios. The stacked design also benefits high ISO performance and dynamic range, potentially offering cleaner images in low light — a frequent challenge when photographing birds at dawn or in forested environments. (GoToBirding)

While sensor resolution for the Mark II is expected to remain in the 30–35 MP range, prioritizing speed and responsiveness over dramatic increases in pixel count aligns with the practical needs of wildlife shooters who value burst performance and subject tracking over sheer megapixel numbers. (GoToBirding)

Implication for wildlife photography: The Mark II’s stacked sensor should yield higher throughput and reduced distortion during rapid movement capture. This matters for birds in flight, where rolling shutter can skew fast-moving wings and bodies, leading to unnatural shapes in the frame when using electronic shutter. Reduced noise at higher ISOs and wider dynamic range also improve keeper rates in challenging lighting.

Autofocus and Subject Tracking

Autofocus (AF) performance is arguably the most critical factor in BIF and wildlife photography. Fast, accurate AF that can stay locked on a small bird against a complex background is essential for capturing critically sharp images.

The EOS R7’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF II system is already a major strength. With nearly 100% AF coverage, animal and bird eye detection, and sticky AF tracking that follows erratic subject motion, the R7 delivers class-leading performance among APS-C cameras. Users frequently note that its AF is a significant step above older DSLR systems, and it often tracks small birds in flight with remarkable reliability for its price range. (GoToBirding)

However, the R7 is not without limitations. While highly capable in most situations, photographers report occasional AF hesitations in extremely cluttered backgrounds (dense foliage) or when there is low contrast between subject and background. Canon appears to be targeting these exact scenarios with the Mark II. (GoToBirding)

Expected autofocus improvements on the EOS R7 Mark II include advanced Dual Pixel AF with enhanced AI-driven subject recognition, enabling more robust identification of birds, animal eyes, and even specific animal poses in complex environmental conditions. These enhancements are likely derived from Canon’s latest autofocus algorithms used in higher-end models like the R5 Mark II and R1, which integrate AI-trained detection for small subjects and erratic motion. (Camera Lookout)

Beyond detection enhancements, the Mark II is also tipped to include a higher-resolution EVF and improved AF controls, which together make it easier for photographers to track subjects visually and through the autofocus system. A larger, brighter EVF improves visibility in bright daylight — a frequent field condition during wildlife shoots. (Camera Lookout)

Implication for wildlife photography: More advanced AF algorithms and subject recognition directly translate to higher keeper rates when photographing fast-moving birds, particularly against complex backgrounds such as treetops or textured skies. Faster AF and better AF control responsiveness enhance the probability of capturing critical moments like wingbeats, take-offs, and mid-air maneuvers.

Burst Shooting and Buffer Performance

Canon’s APS-C platform has placed a strong emphasis on burst shooting, with the original R7 capable of 15 frames per second (fps) mechanical shutter and 30 fps electronic shutter operation. The electronic shutter’s speed effectively freezes motion and is essential for capturing flocks or rapid wing movements. Additionally, Canon’s RAW Burst Mode records frames slightly before the shutter press, enabling photographers to catch the perfect split-second moment. (Canon Australia)

Despite these impressive figures, real-world use reveals that the R7’s buffer depth can be limiting when shooting extended bursts at 30 fps in RAW. While UHS-II SD cards mitigate this constraint somewhat, buffer fill-times still interrupt shooting during sustained action sequences. (Vernon Chalmers Photography)

The Mark II is expected to significantly enhance burst and buffer performance. Rumors indicate the inclusion of CFexpress card support alongside SD cards, which substantially increases write speeds and allows for longer continuous bursts before buffer saturation. Coupled with a faster sensor readout, the Mark II may also push burst rates beyond 30 fps with electronic shutter, potentially approaching 40 fps. (GoToBirding)

Implication for wildlife photography: Extended burst capability and higher continuous shooting rates are vital when shooting unpredictable wildlife. Longer sequences without buffer stalls increase the likelihood of capturing decisive action frames — crucial for BIF shooters who often rely on key wing positions and target isolation.

Video Capabilities

Modern wildlife photographers frequently also capture video, especially for behavioral studies or social media content. The EOS R7 already offers 4K60p video, oversampled from 7K for improved detail, along with Canon Log 3 for color grading flexibility — strong specs for a hybrid stills/video body. (Wikipedia)

For the R7 Mark II, expected video upgrades are significant. Rumored features include 6K oversampled recording, 4K120p slow-motion capture, and 10-bit internal recording. Combined with reduced rolling shutter from the stacked sensor, these video enhancements make the Mark II a compelling hybrid tool for both stills and motion capture in the wildlife domain. (GoToBirding)

Implication for wildlife photography: Video improvements support creating detailed clips of animal behavior, feeding actions, or flight sequences. Higher resolution and frame rate options add creative flexibility and allow slow-motion playback that can reveal subtle motion dynamics in birds and other wildlife.

Image Stabilization (IBIS)

Both R7 and the anticipated Mark II employ 5-axis in-body image stabilization (IBIS), which — in combination with lens stabilization — delivers up to 7–8 stops of shake reduction. IBIS is particularly valuable when using long telephoto lenses handheld, as it reduces blur from camera shake and allows slower shutter speeds when light is limited. (Canon Australia)

Although specific IBIS improvements for the Mark II are not fully documented, expectations include enhanced stabilization algorithms that improve effectiveness during panning — a common requirement when tracking fast lateral motion in birds in flight. (Markus Hanger Photography)

Implication for wildlife photography: Reliable IBIS reduces the reliance on tripods or monopods in field conditions, especially when tracking erratic subject motion. It also contributes to sharper images at longer focal lengths.

Ergonomics and Handling

Ergonomics significantly impact shooting comfort and control during long wildlife sessions. The original R7 introduced a novel combined AF multi-controller and control wheel, which some photographers found less intuitive compared to Canon’s traditional layout. (Canon Australia)

Rumors suggest the Mark II will adopt traditional control ergonomics closer to those found on higher-end bodies like the EOS R5 Mark II. This would include a more familiar dial and button arrangement, improving tactile control when adjusting settings quickly in the field. (Camera Lookout)

Implication for wildlife photography: Ergonomic improvements make it easier to change settings on the fly (shutter speed, aperture, ISO) — critical when lighting and subject behavior change rapidly.

Connectivity and Workflow

Both bodies support built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, enabling wireless image transfer and remote control via compatible devices. USB-C charging and data transfer assist workflow flexibility. (Wikipedia)

If the Mark II includes CFexpress support, workflow benefits include faster offloading of large burst sequences and smoother ingestion into editing pipelines.

Implication for wildlife photography: A faster and more flexible workflow is advantageous when transferring large numbers of images in remote locations where connectivity and time are limited.

Battery Life and Field Usability

Battery performance in the original R7 is solid but typical of APS-C mirrorless bodies; many wildlife photographers carry spares due to the high demand of burst shooting and live view use. Rumored efficiency gains with the Mark II and its newer sensor may yield modest battery improvements. (GoToBirding)

Implication for wildlife photography: Extended battery life reduces interruptions during critical periods of wildlife activity, particularly at dawn and dusk when subject presence peaks.

Lens Ecosystem and Accessory Support

One enduring advantage of Canon’s APS-C mirrorless platform is the growing RF and RF-S lens ecosystem, including telephoto zooms (e.g., 100–500mm) and super-telephoto options that are ideal for wildlife reach. The 1.6x crop factor effectively extends focal length, a practical benefit for BIF and distant subjects. (Vernon Chalmers Photography)

Compatibility with legacy EF and EF-S lenses via adapters further broadens lens options, allowing wildlife photographers to leverage existing glass during transitions to mirrorless systems. (GoToBirding)

Implication for wildlife photography: Both camera bodies benefit from Canon’s robust lens ecosystem, but any ergonomic improvements and CFexpress support in the Mark II could further enhance field usability with long telephoto lenses.

Real-World Considerations

While the technical distinctions paint the Mark II as a clear evolution over the R7, practical considerations remain:

  • Cost and value: The original R7 still offers exceptional performance for its price point, particularly for enthusiasts transitioning from DSLR to mirrorless platforms.
  • Existing gear: Photographers with a solid set of RF or adapted EF telephoto lenses may find incremental gains more compelling than those without long lenses.
  • Skill and technique: Mastery of autofocus settings, tracking modes, burst strategies, and exposure adjustments remains crucial regardless of body improvements.

Canon EOS R7 Mark II vs. EOS 7D Mark II

Conclusion

In summary, the Canon EOS R7 Mark II is anticipated to deliver meaningful advancements in areas that matter deeply for birds in flight and wildlife photography:

  • Faster sensor readout and reduced rolling shutter.
  • Enhanced autofocus with improved subject recognition.
  • Higher burst rates and deeper buffer capabilities.
  • Superior video performance with higher resolution and frame rates.
  • Ergonomics more suited to quick, responsive field control.

The current Canon EOS R7 remains a powerful APS-C mirrorless tool with reliable autofocus, strong burst performance, effective IBIS, and a lens ecosystem that supports wildlife shooters well. For many photographers, the R7 continues to be a compelling choice. However, the Mark II promises to elevate key performance metrics — particularly autofocus and high-speed capture — making it a more attractive option for those who demand the highest keeper rates and peak performance in dynamic wildlife situations." (Source: ChatGPT 2025)

References

Canon. (2025). Canon’s EOS R System innovation meets the APS-C format with two new cameras, the EOS R7 and EOS R10. Canon Australia Press Release. Retrieved from Canon website. (Canon Australia)

Gotobirding. (2025). Canon EOS R7 Mark II: What wildlife photographers should know. Retrieved from GoToBirding.com. (GoToBirding)

Canon Snapshot. (2025). Core capabilities of the EOS R7. Retrieved from Canon Asia. (SNAPSHOT - Canon Singapore Pte. Ltd.)

Markus Hagner Photography. (2025). Canon EOS R7 Mark II delayed — complete analysis. Retrieved from markus-hagner-photography.com. (Markus Hanger Photography)

Canon Lookout. (2025). Canon EOS R7 Mark II: Rumors, expectations, and what we’ve heard so far. Retrieved from CameraLookout.com. (Camera Lookout)

Gotobirding. (2025). Canon EOS R7 camera review for bird and wildlife photography. Retrieved from GoToBirding.com. (GoToBirding)

Canon Emirates. (2025). Canon EOS R7 specifications & features. Retrieved from Canon Emirates. (tst.canon-emirates.ae)

20 December 2025

Canon EOS R7 Mark II vs. Canon EOS R10 Mark II

Key Differences for Birds in Flight and Wildlife Photography

Canon EOS R7 Mark II vs. Canon EOS R10 Mark II
Canon EOS R7

Canon EOS R7 Mark II vs. Canon EOS R7

Anticipated launch of the Canon EOS R7 Mark II and Canon EOS R10 Mark II 

The forthcoming launch of the Canon EOS R7 Mark II and Canon EOS R10 Mark II has generated significant interest among wildlife and birds-in-flight (BIF) photographers. Both anticipated models are successors to highly capable APS-C mirrorless cameras that have proven popular for action photography. This analysis evaluates and contrasts the expected capabilities of each camera in areas that matter most to wildlife and BIF practitioners, including sensor and image quality, autofocus systems, continuous shooting performance, buffer and card support, IBIS and handling, video features, lens ecosystem, and real-world implications for bird and wildlife capture. The comparison draws upon current specifications of existing models, credible rumors, and authoritative sources on Canon’s APS-C technology roadmap.

Introduction

Canon’s RF mount APS-C cameras have become tools of choice for bird and wildlife photography due to their effective 1.6× crop factor, fast autofocus, and high burst rates. The Canon EOS R10 is widely regarded as a capable budget-friendly option, while the R7 occupies a more professional position with higher resolution and better sustained performance. Both models have shaped expectations for their successor offerings, the anticipated EOS R7 Mark II and EOS R10 Mark II.

These updated models are expected to significantly expand performance frontiers, particularly in areas that affect dynamic and unpredictable movement inherent in wildlife and BIF photography, such as AI-assisted autofocus accuracy, faster sensor readouts, and extended burst capabilities. Understanding key differences anticipated between the Mark II iterations is essential for serious photographers who are deciding whether to upgrade or invest strategically.

Sensor and Image Quality

Anticipated Canon EOS R7 Mark II Sensor

The R7 Mark II is widely rumored to adopt a stacked APS-C sensor, potentially with backside-illuminated (BSI) architecture and a resolution near 35–40 megapixels (MP), improving on the original R7’s 32.5 MP non-stacked sensor (GoToBirding, 2025; Vernon Chalmers Photography, 2025). A stacked sensor design increases readout speeds and reduces rolling shutter distortion, a critical benefit when shooting fast-moving subjects such as birds in flight (GoToBirding, 2025; Vernon Chalmers Photography, 2025). Faster readout directly improves frame consistency and motion fidelity, particularly when using electronic shutter modes.

The enhanced sensor architecture also has positive implications for high ISO performance and dynamic range, which are essential for capturing detailed textures and tonal subtleties in low light — conditions common at dawn or dusk when bird activity peaks (GoToBirding, 2025).

Anticipated Canon EOS R10 Mark II Sensor

By contrast, the current R10’s sensor is 24.2 MP without in-body image stabilization (IBIS) — a more modest configuration compared to the R7 (Paolo Sartori Photography, 2025). Although a Mark II version is anticipated to raise resolution and improve readout speeds, no authoritative leaks have yet detailed whether Canon will adopt a stacked design for the R10 Mark II. Early expectations are that any improvements will be evolutionary rather than transformative — likely a modest increase in resolution and algorithmic boosting rather than a full architectural overhaul (industry rumor context).

Practical Implications for Wildlife and BIF

Higher pixel density allows more aggressive cropping without losing resolution — particularly useful in BIF photography where subjects frequently occupy a small portion of the frame. The R7 Mark II’s anticipated sensor is expected to offer not just higher resolution but more responsive capturing for rapid motion. If the R10 Mark II only moderately increases resolution without a stacked structure, its readout and motion handling may lag slightly behind the R7 Mark II’s capabilities in the most demanding action scenarios.

Autofocus (AF) Systems

R7 Mark II Expected AF Enhancements

Autofocus is arguably the most critical performance area for wildlife and BIF photography. The current R7 already features Dual Pixel CMOS AF II with animal and bird eye detection. However, the Mark II is expected to incorporate Canon’s latest AF algorithms leveraging deep learning and AI-trained subject detection, further improving the reliability and persistence of tracking fast, erratic motion against complex backgrounds (GoToBirding, 2025; Vernon Chalmers Photography, 2025). Anticipated enhancements include:

    • Improved bird-specific subject recognition
    • Better frontal and lateral tracking of small subjects
    • Higher sensitivity in low contrast environments

Canon’s deep-learning iTR AF technology, inherited from higher-end full-frame models, suggests tracking improvements in dynamic and cluttered field conditions — critical when shooting flocks, perched birds in foliage, or birds silhouetted against varied sky conditions.

R10 Mark II Expected AF

The current R10 also features Canon’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF II with deep learning subject detection including birds and animals — a capability that already sets a high standard at its price point (Harrison Cameras, 2025; Paolo Sartori Photography, 2025). The Mark II is expected to carry forward this AF core with incremental gains in tracking speed and accuracy. However, unless Canon significantly rearchitects the AF system, the R10 Mark II may not match the enhanced deep learning models expected in the R7 Mark II, particularly in extreme BIF conditions with complex backgrounds.

AF Performance Comparisons

In practice, both platforms are expected to deliver excellent AF results, but the R7 Mark II will likely hold a margin of superiority due to:

    • Wider AF frame coverage and improved subject recognition
    • Increased sensitivity in low light
    • Faster AF decision cycles on each frame

For wildlife photographers who depend on AF retention on small, fast targets, the R7 Mark II could offer statistically higher keep rates on tack-sharp frames even in challenging scenarios.

Continuous Shooting and Buffer Performance

Anticipated Burst Rates

High continuous shooting rates allow photographers to capture decisive moments — a staple requirement for BIF and wildlife. The current R7 already supports up to 30 fps with electronic shutter and 15 fps with the mechanical shutter, while the R10 maxes out at 23 fps electronically and 15 fps mechanically (Canon Australia, 2025). Rumors suggest the R7 Mark II could push burst performance even further, potentially up to 40 fps electronically with a significantly expanded buffer and CFexpress card support alongside SD — a substantial enhancement for sustained shooting (GoToBirding, 2025; Vernon Chalmers Photography, 2025).

By contrast, the R10 Mark II’s burst improvements are expected but lacking specific leaks that mirror the R7 Mark II’s potential. Incremental growth — for example, 25–28 fps electronic — might be feasible, but without CFexpress support and a deeper buffer, the R10 Mark II may still be less capable of extended captures.

Importance for BIF and Wildlife

Extended burst capability delivers more frames during critical sequences such as:

    • Wingbeat peaks
    • Take-offs
    • Predator pursuits
    • Complex flight dynamics

A deeper buffer also ensures that the camera can sustain high-speed captures without performance degradation — a feature that becomes more important in field environments where pre-burst and post-burst opportunities matter.

Canon EOS R7 Mark II vs. EOS R5 Mark II

Image Stabilization and Handling

IBIS on the R7 Mark II

The current R7 features a 5-axis IBIS system that provides up to 8 stops of stabilization, a major advantage for handheld shooting with long telephoto lenses. The R10 lacks IBIS entirely. The Mark II R7 is expected to retain and likely refine its IBIS implementation, potentially incorporating improved panning algorithms critical for smooth horizontal tracking of birds in motion.

In practice, IBIS contributes significantly to wildlife photography by:

    • Reducing camera shake with long focal lengths
    • Allowing slower shutter speeds in marginal light
    • Enhancing overall image sharpness without reliance on support rigs
R10 Mark II IBIS Expectations

There are no strong indications that the R10 Mark II will adopt IBIS, and early leaks suggest Canon may preserve its current position as a smaller, lighter, budget-oriented body. Without IBIS, photographers will need more reliance on lens stabilization or support systems, which can compromise flexibility in the field.

Ergonomics and Handling

Larger grips, intuitive control layouts, and robust weather-sealing often matter in demanding environments (e.g., rainforests, coastlines). The R7 Mark II is expected to maintain professional-oriented ergonomics with weather sealing appropriate for serious field work, whereas the R10 Mark II may remain more compact and travel-friendly, with more modest environmental resistance.

Video Capabilities

Wildlife storytelling often extends beyond stills to motion capture. The R7 Mark II is rumored to support advanced video features such as:

  • 6K oversampled recording
  • 4K 120 fps slow-motion
  • 10-bit internal recording
  • Canon Log 3 profiles

These enhancements will serve wildlife videographers and hybrid shooters well, enabling detailed motion sequences and greater grading flexibility in post-production.

The R10 line has historically supported capable video but with limitations, including cropped 4K 60p capture and less expansive codec flexibility. Unless Canon significantly upgrades this segment for the Mark II, the R10 Mark II’s video capabilities may not match the R7 Mark II’s hybrid versatility.

Lens Ecosystem and Accessories

Both anticipated bodies will leverage Canon’s RF-mount ecosystem, including powerful telephoto primes and zooms ideal for wildlife work — such as 100–400mm, 100–500mm, and 600–800mm super-telephoto lenses. The crop-factor advantage of APS-C bodies extends effective reach without physical extenders, granting longer fields of view at lower cost and weight.

Given the anticipated performance envelope of the R7 Mark II, pairing with professional telephoto glass will unlock its greatest potential. The R10 Mark II remains a strong entry-level body capable of excellent results, especially when paired with efficient telephoto optics.

Price Positioning and Value Proposition

While official pricing is unavailable, expectations suggest that the R7 Mark II will command a premium over the R10 Mark II, reflecting its higher performance class. Budget-conscious shooters may prioritize the R10 Mark II for balanced performance and cost, particularly if they do not require top-tier continuous shooting or IBIS. Serious enthusiasts and working professionals, however, may find the performance advantages of the R7 Mark II justify the investment.

Canon EOS R7 Mark II vs. EOS R6 Mark III

Conclusion

In summary, the anticipated Canon EOS R7 Mark II and Canon EOS R10 Mark II represent evolutionary leaps in Canon’s APS-C mirrorless lineup, with each catering to distinct segments of the wildlife photography community.

Canon EOS R7 Mark II (Anticipated Strengths)
    • More advanced stacked, higher-resolution APS-C sensor with fast readout and reduced rolling shutter
    • Superior autofocus with enhanced AI subject detection and tracking
    • Potentially higher burst rates with larger buffer and CFexpress support
    • IBIS retained and refined for handheld telephoto performance
    • Advanced video capabilities desirable for hybrid stills/video wildlife capture
    • Robust build and ergonomic controls favored under demanding field conditions
Canon EOS R10 Mark II (Anticipated Positioning)
    • Likely incremental improvements over the current R10 in sensor and AF performance
    • Compact, lightweight form factor beneficial for travel and trekking
    • Competitive autofocus and burst capabilities for mid-range wildlife needs
    • Value-oriented choice for enthusiasts and hobbyist BIF shooters

For Birds in Flight and wildlife photography, the R7 Mark II is anticipated to offer clearly superior performance, especially for photographers who demand the highest keep rates, fastest burst performance, and robust handling in diverse environments. The R10 Mark II remains a worthy contender, particularly for photographers seeking strong performance at a more accessible price point." (Source: ChatGPT 2025)

References

Canon Australia. (2025). Canon’s EOS R System innovation meets the APS-C format with two new cameras, the EOS R7 and EOS R10. Canon. (Canon Australia)

GoToBirding. (2025). Canon EOS R7 Mark II: What wildlife photographers should know. (GoToBirding)

Harrison Cameras. (2025). Canon EOS R7 & R10 first impressions. (Harrison Cameras)

Paolo Sartori Photography. (2025). Best wildlife photography cameras for beginners in 2025 guide. (Paolo Sartori)

Vernon Chalmers Photography Training. (2025). Canon EOS R7 Mark II vs. Canon EOS R7. (vernonchalmers.photography)