Canon EOS system celebrates 25th anniversary

Canon today celebrates 25 years of photography expertise with the anniversary of the iconic EOS System. Since its birth in 1987, the EOS System has grown to become the world’s most comprehensive range of digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) cameras, interchangeable lenses and accessories, favoured by photographers the world over.

Canon’s EOS system made its debut in March 1987 with the launch of the EOS 650 SLR camera and three interchangeable EF lenses, including the EF35-70mm f/3.5-4.5. This month, the system will commemorate its long, rich history with the celebration of its 25th anniversary.

Standing for “Electro Optical System” while also carrying the name of the Greek goddess of the dawn, the EOS series was the world’s first fully electronic mount system, representing a new generation of AF SLR cameras. During the film camera era, EOS SLR cameras garnered high acclaim from a wide range of users for their innovative technologies and designs focused on Canon’s key concepts of high-speed and ease of use.

During this period, Canon pioneered new advances in technology launching the top-of-the-line professional-model EOS-1 in 1989. In 1993 the company continued to expand its user base with the introduction of the compact, lightweight EOS 500.

Following the introduction of the EOS D30 in 2000, when the popularisation of digital SLR cameras was in full swing, Canon developed such advanced technologies as its proprietary CMOS sensors and high-performance DIGIC digital image processors in an effort to offer products that fulfilled the company’s key concepts of high speed, ease-of-use and high image quality.

With the flagship EOS-1D X at the apex and the newly introduced EOS 5D Mark III boasting excellent image quality and video functionality, Canon’s rich digital SLR camera line-up serves the needs of all levels of users, from professional photographers to entry-level photo enthusiasts.

Additionally, Canon’s interchangeable EF lens series, introduced together with the EOS SLR camera system, has come to lead the industry. With Canon’s optical technologies at its core, EF lenses incorporate such innovative technologies as the Ultrasonic Motor (USM), Image Stabilizer (IS), Subwavelength Structure Coating (SWC), anti-reflection technology, and multi-layered Diffractive Optical (DO) elements. The current EF-lens line-up comprises over 60 models, making possible a diverse range of imaging-expression possibilities.

Furthermore, with the recent launch of the Cinema EOS System of professional digital cinematography products, Canon’s EOS system now supports motion picture production and other high-end video capture applications.

Canon will continue to refine its diverse imaging technologies based on its core optical technologies, striving to produce exceptional and reliable cameras and lenses that cater to the varying needs of users while contributing to expanding the culture of photographic and video imaging.