Canon releases DP3D app for 3D images from EOS mirrorless cameras

Dual Pixel AF has been used for autofocus: when the two images from each photodiode line up, the image is in focus; when they do not, the camera knows which way to move the autofocus motor. Canon’s new DP3D feature uses the same pixel-level data to generate depth information and create three-dimensional images.

Canon launched the feature alongside the EOS R8 Mark II on September 16, a full-frame camera that uses it. TechRadar reported that owners of Canon EOS mirrorless cameras with Dual Pixel AF, including older models such as the EOS R5 and EOS R6 Mark II, can use the feature without a firmware update.

The camera must be paired with a compatible Canon RF lens. TechRadar reported that the list is broader than the specialist Canon RF 5.2mm F2.8L Dual Fisheye and RF-S 3.9mm F3.5 Dual Fisheye lenses but is still limited and does not currently work with older EF or EF-S glass.

Canon says specific shooting conditions and techniques are needed to generate accurate depth information, eliminate blind spots and provide the required depth of field, subject-background separation, subject depth and surface texture. In testing, TechRadar found the software worked best with a clean background without bokeh and with few blind spots. It also performed better on relatively flat objects with little depth; small bumps were acceptable, but large peaks in depth caused more noticeable and artificial-looking effects.

TechRadar used two compatible macro lenses, the Canon RF 100mm f2.8L Macro IS USM and Canon RF 35mm f1.8 IS Macro STM. Both produced an alert in DP3D warning that the camera had been too close to the subject, although TechRadar said the result still turned out fine.

Users must shoot in Canon’s Dual Pixel RAW format, not only standard RAW. TechRadar found the setting in the first camera menu on the EOS R6 Mark II. Dual Pixel RAW files are roughly twice the size of standard files, take longer to write to a memory card and cannot be captured with the electronic shutter, according to the report. The format can also correct minor parallax error, shift bokeh or focus and reduce flare, but TechRadar advised turning it off when not needed to avoid compromising camera performance.

Canon recommends keeping the aperture at f/5.6 or wider and ISO below 1600, TechRadar reported. Otherwise DP3D displays a warning when the image is imported and the 3D result will not be optimal. The report also advised ensuring the subject and focal point are in focus, using a fast enough shutter speed for handheld shooting and checking exposure; a tripod is advisable when in doubt.

The Dual Pixel 3D Converter app currently runs only on Windows 11. Canon said the application “will initially be available free of charge,” while adding that specifications and terms of use may change, according to TechRadar.

Editor's Summary Canon’s DP3D Converter app extends Dual Pixel AF data into 3D image generation for a range of EOS mirrorless cameras, but requires compatible RF lenses, Dual Pixel RAW capture and controlled shooting conditions. TechRadar’s test shows the tool can work with older bodies such as the EOS R5 and R6 Mark II, while aperture, ISO and file-size limits constrain everyday use.