World’s first wide-angle fixed focal length lenses with an image stabilizer excel as the lenses of choice in low-light conditions, delivering exceptional image quality with smooth and silent operation

Delivering superior sharpness in a smooth and easy-to-use form factor, Canon’s new EF24mm f/2.8 IS USM and EF28mm f/2.8 IS USM lenses, launched today, are the world’s first wide-angle, single focus lenses featuring an image stabilization mechanism, making them an ideal choice for photographers shooting scenes in marginal light.

“Most photographers battle against dying light to capture the perfect still shot, whether a dusk scene, dappled sunlight on the surface of shallow water or portraits of people in deep shade,” says Chris Macleod, Brand Manager – EOS, Canon Australia.  “Image stabilization and a shorter minimum focusing distance make the EF24mm f/2.8 IS USM or EF28mm f/2.8 IS USM the ideal choice for wide-angle photography in low light”.

Whilst close range images can often be difficult to achieve, the EF24mm f/2.8 IS USM delivers a minimum focusing distance of 0.20m (EF28mm f/2.8 IS USM at 0.23m), allowing photographers to get close to their subject without losing clarity. The lenses deliver crisper, sharper handheld images in low light conditions, due to the addition of Canon’s Image Stabilizer. Canon’s Image Stabilizer enables photographers to shoot with shutter speeds up to four stops slower than would otherwise be possible; enabling the photographer to shoot with a speed of one fifteenth of a second, without the blur that is usually caused by camera shake.

“With a closer minimum focusing distance and Image Stabilizer, photographers have the ability to create more diverse and varied shots focusing on the minute details of scenes across a broad range of lighting conditions. The result is images that are clearer and sharper and more creative flexibility for users.” says Macleod.

New features such as small ring USM, high-speed CPU and optimised auto focus make it possible to focus on a subject faster and quieter; ideal for shooting in noise-sensitive conditions when users want to shoot more discreetly. For instance, the EF24mm f/2.8 IS USM and EF28mm f/2.8 IS USM are ideal for capturing nature scenes at close range, such as an insect on a leaf.

The advanced technology in the lenses minimises distortion, flare and ghosting seen in older lenses, resulting in brilliantly sharp lines and colours. The GMo aspherical lens element corrects the shadowy distortion that can occur at the sides of an image, resulting in better clarity and a contrast of shapes and lines for creative impact. 

The EF24mm f/2.8 IS USM and EF28mm f/2.8 IS USM lenses are also installed with a circular aperture, which enables users to play with light sources in the background to create a soft, out-of-focus effect, so that subjects at close range are shrouded by creative and interesting light effects. 

“The new lenses are an exciting companion for creative photographers looking to take their wide-angle photography to the next level”, says Macleod. 

The EF24mm f/2.8 IS USM and EF28mm f/2.8 IS USM are part of the renowned Canon EF range which reached its 70 million milestone in 2011. The EF24mm f/2.8 IS USM and EF28mm f/2.8 IS USM will be available in Australia from June 2012. For more information visit: www.canon.com.au