Photo Update

Canon launches more advanced zoom lens–

Since its introduction in 2001, the EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM has been the high performance telephoto zoom lens of choice of professional and advanced users, indispensable in applications ranging from photojournalism to sports photography. This year, Canon announces the replacement of this stalwart lens with the EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM, designed with greater performance, higher quality optics, and hardy construction to weather tough conditions in the field.

A large diameter f/2.8 lens offering telephoto 70-200mm focal range, the EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM offers premium build quality expected of a Canon L lens, with four-stop image stabilization, minimum focus distance of 1.2m over the entirety of its zoom range, and a combination of flourite and UD lens elements for best quality images.

Compared to earlier models, the EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM offers greater image quality throughout the whole zoom range, comprising of no less than 23 lens elements in 19 groups.

Flourite lens element, which Canon successfully synthesized in the 1960s, exhibits very low dispersion of light, resulting in reduced fringing when light passes through it compared to conventional optical glass.

In the EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM, a flourite lens element and a larger number of UD lenses are used to cut chromatic aberration to a minimum, especially for both axial and magnification type chromatic aberration, to realize high resolution and high contrast images throughout the entire zoom range of the lens. Lens disposition and coatings have also been optimized to cut ghosting and flare which frequently occur with digital cameras while the circular 8-leaf aperture produces very attractive, natural-looking background blur.

The EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM is designed for high performance: its ring USM drive and high speed CPU with improved AF algorithm offers fast, quiet auto focusing. In addition, a new IS unit has also been designed for this lens, incorporating the latest innovations such as an ultra-compact stepping motor and friction-reducing mechanisms in the stabilizing optics barrel. Together, these innovations give the lens a 4-stop advantage with IS switched on. Manual operation is also intuitive: the lens features full-time manual focusing, facilitated by a wide focusing ring on the barrel with fine rubber patterning to improve grip.

Professional users require a high performance lens that is able to perform as designed even under difficult conditions. To this end, the EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM features magnesium alloy construction for its main components for exceptional toughness while keeping the weight of the lens low. The fixed barrel has been strengthened compared to earlier models, along with the way the parts connect. Dust and water proofing has also been improved to make the lens suitable for use in harsh conditions, and the switches have been designed to prevent getting toggled accidentally.

For more information, visit the Canon website at www.canon.com.ph.