Canon Professional Network - Canon reveals L-series telephoto zoom

January 2010

Canon has added the EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM telephoto zoom lens to its L-series lens line-up to succeed the EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM by offering improved performance including faster AF, closer focusing, better Image Stabilization capabilities and a more robust build.

True to the heritage of Canon’s L-series lenses, the EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM delivers optical excellence in the most challenging of shooting situations. The lens’ internal optical system has been revamped and, as a direct result of user feedback, the lens has been structurally re-developed in order to make it as robust and reliable as it is optically advanced.

Premium performance

The EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM features a re-designed optical system that consists of 23 elements in 19 groups to deliver truly impressive results. A high-performance fluorite element is used at the heart of the lens path, coupled with five ultra-low dispersion (UD) elements, to drastically reduce chromatic aberration throughout the zoom range to produce high contrast images with edge-to-edge definition.

A high-speed autofocus system perfectly matches the AF capabilities of the recently launched Canon EOS-1D Mark IV and Canon EOS 7D DSLRs, and will operate superbly with all other EOS cameras. The new lens model also features a ring-type USM AF motor, which combines with a new high-speed CPU and an optimised AF algorithm to make autofocusing even faster and quieter than its predecessor.

A reduced minimum focusing distance of 1.2 metres (3.9 ft) and improved 0.21x magnification will allow photographers to get closer to subjects without needing to swap lenses – greatly benefitting time-pressured news and events photographers who require flexibility. An updated Image Stabilizer mechanism also offers a shutter speed advantage that’s equivalent to four stops, reducing the effect of image blur resulting from camera shake in busy shooting environments.

Reuters’ production editor, Kevin Coombs, commented: “Reuters’ photographers have used the EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM for a number of years and it allows photographers a great level of flexibility. The focal length, fast aperture and Image Stabilizer all contribute to it being a workhorse lens that you’ll find in many professional photographers’ camera bags. I’m very much looking forward to seeing the improvements offered by the EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM.”

Enhanced design for ease of use

As well as an update to the internal construction, the EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM features an enhanced external appearance to improve lens operation. The thickness of protruding exterior parts and switches has been significantly reduced, guarding against accidental switching and creating an improved overall look. The rubber focusing grip has also been redesigned and widened; with finely-patterned grooves that help to make it easier to focus manually.

The new LZ1326 lens case is designed to allow for quick access to the new EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens.

The EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM is fully weatherproof, making it ideal for use in all weather conditions. The mount, focus mode switch and focusing ring all feature a completely dust and drip-proof structure, preventing dust or water from getting inside the camera and lens when used with accompanying weatherproof EOS bodies. The lens has been designed to stand up to the daily wear and tear of professional usage, making it a highly durable, reliable lens for day-to-day use by professional photographers.

High quality accessories

The EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM is supplied with a number of new accessories including the ET-87 lens hood, the Ring-Type Tripod Collar B (W), plus the new LZ1326 lens case that offers quick and easy access when photographers need to switch lenses in time-pressured situations.

Photographers can also use the EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM zoom with the EF1.4x II or EF2x II lens extenders, the EF 12 II and EF 25 II Extensions Tubes, and 77mm filters.

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