Two new lenses with STM technology, one a first for full-frame, a storage device and a website dedicated to lenses are some of the new things Canon shared with the visitors at Photokina.
The new EF 24-105mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens is the first EF-series zoom lens for full-frame sensor cameras to include a lead screw-type stepping motor (STM) that provides virtually silent AF while shooting video. It's a sign of changing times at Canon.
In fact, it's interesting to see Canon suggest this as a viable option to their popular EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM lens, which has been a preferred lens by many videographers. The 24-105mm is one of the most versatile focal range options in the EF lineup as it can be used as a wide-angle as well as a portrait-length zoom when trying to get closer to your subjects, and the addition of STM makes this lens, which is both lighter and more affordable, an interesting acquisition for videographers. And photographers too, in fact, as we should not forget that many DSLR videographers are also photographers. After all DSLR started as photography tools!
The Optical Image Stabilizer present on the lens provides up to four shutter speed steps of correction, while two aspheric lenses plus a UD lens combine to provide high-quality results for both still images and video. New to the EF 24-105mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens is a seven group zoom optical formula that enables a conveniently compact design while maintaining high-quality optical performance. The lens’ lightweight inner focusing system, high-speed CPU, and improved AF algorithm enables high-speed AF. In addition, the seven bladed circular aperture combined with the optimized lens placement and coatings delivers beautiful, soft bokeh, and exceptional color balance, while helping to minimize ghosting and flare.
The EF 24-105mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM is scheduled to be available in December for an estimated retail price of $599.99, so it can make a nice Christmas gift. Just an idea!
Although Canon has also launched a new 400mm lens, we look here at the lenses for video, and the new EF-S 24mm f/2.8 STM surely fits in that category. The affordable EF-S 24mm f/2.8 STM lens (it costs $149.99) is the slimmest and lightest Canon EF-S lens ever produced. This compact, lightweight wide-angle “pancake” style lens features STM technology and was developed for photographers and videographers who are aiming to capture bright, clear images with beautiful softly blurred backgrounds at a fixed focal length. The EF-S 24mm f/2.8 STM lens features an aspheric lens element and the optimized lens arrangement and coating helps to minimize ghosting and flare while delivering excellent image quality. The seven bladed aperture delivers beautiful, soft backgrounds, while the Electro-Magnetic Drive aperture mechanism uses a micro-stepping driver control for quieter operation, especially useful when shooting video.
At Photokina Canon also announced that it is developing a new-concept photo-storage device, tentatively called the Cross Media Station, which will enable users to easily enjoy high-image-quality photos and movies captured by digital cameras.
Through NFC technology, images and movies can be easily transferred from a camera and saved to the Cross Media Station, after which they can be viewed in high quality on a television. In addition, when connected to a network, the Cross Media Station will allow users to easily share photos and movies as well as output images from a printer, along with other various functions. At this time, specifications, pricing, launch date and other details are yet to be announced.
It All Begins With Glass: Canon Glass First from Canon Pro on Vimeo.
Canon will continue to contribute to expanding the photographic and video imaging culture through new technologies and products that meet the expectations of a wide range of users, states the information from the company, that also announced at Photokina their new website, Glass First, dedicated to the most essential element in image capture: the glass.
It’s an understanding shared by image makers around the world: That in the art of capturing light, the first decision starts with the glass you use. This makes that selection of a lens both personal and technical. It’s an approach we call Glass First, one that has inspired our entire line of optics for over 75 years. So if you’re a photographer or cinematographer, whether you’re shooting for millions or just for yourself, when you choose Canon Glass First, you’re looking through the lens of a company as passionate about image making as you are.
The new website is a natural destination for all those that are involved with some of the different areas where “glass” is needed: Cinematography, Videography, Broadcast and Photography. In each area of the new website it is possible to find detailed information about the lenses used for different purposes. Explore Canon Glass First