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| Canon's new EF 50mm f/1.2L USM lens is the fastest autofocus lens in its class. The 50mm and its cousin, the EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM, will be available in November 2006. The 50mm lens lists for $1,599, while the 70-200mm clocks in at $1,249. |
Canon has introduced two new lenses, including one that they are touting as the world's fastest 50mm lens. The new EF 50mm f/1.2L USM is said by Canon to be the fastest autofocus lens in its class. In addition, the new EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM model is said to be compact and extremely lightweight for handheld use.
Both the EF 50mm f/1.2 (pictured) and EF 70-200mm lenses are being aimed at the wedding and portrait markets. "Wedding moments unfold at the speed of life and my mission is to artfully document in real time as a lasting history of the newlyweds," said Canon Explorer of Light photographer Denis Reggie, who is known worldwide for captivating wedding and portrait photography. "Many favorite images are made under the challenges of very low light levels, but using superb, fast lenses, the reward is an unmistakable, documentary look. I love the shallow depth of Canon's remarkable "L" series lenses to bring sharp focus and full attention to the bride's eyes... that gives me and my clients compelling images that stand out from the crowd. For my celebrity and society wedding assignments, these new Canon lenses will be prized additions to my gear bag."
The EF 50mm lens takes advantage of Canon's full frame sensor, professional models such as the EOS-1Ds Mark II and EOS 5D. It has a 72mm filter ring, USM autofocus motor and claimed "blazingly fast" focus speed, and additional coating to suppress flare and ghosting. Spherical aberration and linear distortion are said to be minimized, while dust and moisture resistant components are claimed to protect the lens.
Canon's EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM is weather-sealed and has the company's latest-generation Image Stabilizer technology, which the company claims gives an additional 3 stops of handheld use at slower shutter speeds. There are two IS modes, one for stationary subjects and one for intentional panning. The lens diaphragm is circular for more natural-looking background blur and rounder highlights, and gives distance information to aid autofocusing and auto flash exposure. The lens is claimed to suppress flare and ghosting, while one fluorite element and two UD ultra low dispersion elements suppress chromatic aberrations. There are a total 20 elements in 15 groups. The USM motor is said to be silent and fast.
Both lenses will be available in November 2006. The EF50mm f/1.2L USM lens will have a list price of $1,599; the EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM will have a list price of $1,249.
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