Canon Goes Wide With Latest RF Zoom

Canon has introduced the widest-angle RF mount lens to date, the RF 14-35mm f/4.0L IS USM zoom. It completes the trio of more affordable, compact and lightweight f/4.0 speed zooms, joining the RF 24-105mm f/4.0L IS USM and the RF 70-200mm f/4.0L IS USM. As can be noted from these model designations, all three are equipped with optical image stabilisation which, in the case of the new 14-35mm zoom – gives up to 5.5 stops of correction for camera shake (and up to seven stops when combined with in-body stabilisation).

The optical construction comprises 16 elements in 12 groups, including three aspherical types and three made from optical glass with ultra-low dispersion (UD) characteristics to minimum chromatic aberrations. One of these elements is both aspherical and an UD type. Both Canon’s Sub-Wavelength Structure Coating (SWC) and Air Sphere Coating (ASC) anti-reflection multicoatings are used to minimise both ghosting and flare. Autofocusing via a Nano USM drive and the minimum focusing distance is 20cm. The external construction employs magnesium alloy barrel tubes with full weather sealing to prevent the intrusion of dust and moisture, and the 14-35mm has the multi-functional ‘Control Ring’ that can be set to adjust apertures, shutter speeds or the ISO setting.

Dimensionally, the new 14-35mm zoom is 100mm in length with a diameter of 84mm (giving a screwthread filter fitting of 77mm). It weighs in at 540 grams, and is supplied with both a lens hood and a carry pouch.

At the time of writing, the RF 14-35mm f/4.0L IS USM is scheduled to go on sale in Australia from the end of August with pricing yet to be announced.

For more information visit www.canon.com.au.