CANON EF 16-35mm f/4l IS USM
For wide-angle shooting with full-frame DSLRS, this lens has a lot going for it
Launched at the same time as the EF-S 10-18mm lens for APS-C format cameras (also on test), this was Canon’s first ultra-wide zoom for full-frame DSLRS to feature optical image stabilization. The newly designed stabilizer gives a 4-stop benefit in beating camera-shake.
Having an f/4 aperture rating, the lens is considerably smaller and lighter than Canon’s 16-35mm f/2.8 zoom. That’s a big plus point for landscape and cityscape shooting, when you want to keep carrying weight to a minimum, and the optical stabilization can save taking a tripod as well. The lens has premium optics with GMO (Glass Moulded) aspherical elements, including a largediameter one at the front, plus two UD (Ultra-low Dispersion) elements. Super Spectra Coating is applied, as well as fluorine coatings on the front and rear elements.
Build quality is up to the usual L-series standard and the lens comes complete with weather-seals and a bayonet-fit hood. The filter thread is 77mm, the same as with the competing RF 14-35mm lens.
Autofocus is taken care of by a fast and whisper-quiet ring-type ultrasonic motor, with the usual availability of full-time manual override and a focus distance scale.
Performance
Centre-sharpness is excellent even when shooting wide-open at f/4 and remains very good towards the edges of the frame, although it drops off at the corners. Colour fringing is minimal, although not as entirely negligible as with some competing lenses, and distortion can be a little noticeable at the short end of the zoom range.