EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM and EF 35mm f/2 IS USM
Canon has announced an image stabilized EF24-70/4L IS USM lens. I'm not sure exactly what the difference will be in performance from the existing Canon EF24-105/4L IS USM, but I'm guessing that Canon have probably made some improvements made possible by reducing the focal length range. The Canon EF24-70/4L IS USM will sell for $1499, while the Canon EF24-105/4L sells for $1199, so the new EF24-70/4L IS USM must have something that the EF24-105/4L IS USM doesn't! Two of those things are a hybrid IS system which should (according to Canon) provide up to 4 stops of stabilization, and a true macro focus capability at 70 mm which will allow focus down to a distance of 7.9" and a magnification up to 0.7x. Also, the new EF24-70/4L IS USM features a 9 blade aperture and dust and water resistance.
Along with the EF24-70/4L IS USM Canon also announced a Canon EF35/2 IS USM, presumably to replace the current EF35/2 non-IS non-USM model. The new IS USM version will sell for $849.99 while the current Canon EF35/2 sells for $309 at the present time.
Both lenses are expected to be available by December 2012 and can be pre-ordered from:
Here is the press release from Canon:
"The lens is the window to creativity, providing the unique perspective and vantage that allows photographers to turn a scene into art. It is our pleasure to introduce two lenses that will enable a wide range of photographers in diverse disciplines to explore their creativity through these new options," said Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Imaging Technologies & Communications Group, Canon U.S.A.
Canon EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM Lens
Featuring dynamic L-series optical performance in a compact, lightweight and durable design, the new EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM lens is well suited for all levels of advanced photography on the go. The ideal companion to Canon's full-frame Digital SLR cameras such as the EOS 6D, the lens features a constant maximum aperture of f/4 throughout the entire zoom range with 15 lens elements in 12 groups including two aspherical and two UD lens elements and a 9-blade circular aperture diaphragm. The EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM lens delivers gorgeous images with excellent detail at all focal lengths and includes a macro feature at the telephoto end with a 0.2m/7.9-inch minimum focusing distance and Canon's Hybrid IS system (with up to four stops of stabilization). The macro feature can be engaged through a switch on the lens barrel. In addition, the lens features inner focusing and a ring-type Ultrasonic Motor (USM) for quiet, fast autofocus, and has full-time mechanical manual focus that's enabled even during AF operation. Compact at only 93mm in length, with excellent dust and water resistance, the EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM lens has a fluorine coating on the front and rear elements for easy maintenance and cleaning.
The EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM lens is supplied with a lens pouch and reversible lens hood. It is expected to be available in December for an approximate retail price of $1,499.00.
Canon Standard Prime Lens with Optical Image Stabilizer: EF 35mm f/2 IS USM Lens
The successor to Canon's EF 35mm f/2, the EF 35mm f/2 IS USM lens is a compact and lightweight wide-angle prime lens that provides a high level of image quality and functionality. The optics and mechanical workings are designed to improve image quality in the lens's periphery and provide faster and quieter AF than its predecessor, as well as Optical IS and optional full-time manual focus, all in a durable lens body with a high-grade design. Featuring a circular aperture diaphragm and lens coatings optimized for minimal ghosting and flare, the EF 35mm f/2 IS USM lens achieves beautiful, soft backgrounds and amazing image quality.
The EF 35mm f/2 IS USM lens is expected to be available in December for an approximate retail price of $849.99.