By Martin Vedris
SYDNEY: Canon today announced the arrival of two all-new telephoto lenses, the EF800mm f/5.6L IS USM and the EF200mm f/2L IS USM, which expands Canon’s line up of four large aperture, telephoto L-series lenses to six, strengthening its EOS system.
“The development of these two lenses showcases Canon’s commitment to continually addressing the wide-ranging needs of professional photographers,” stated Canon Australia’s product manager – DSLR, Consumer Imaging Products Group, Chris Macleod.
“The new additions will see the expansion of photographic possibilities for SLR users, just in time for one of the world’s most highly anticipated and photographed sporting events, the Beijing Olympic Games.”
The EF800mm f/5.6L IS USM delivers telephoto performance, surpassing the current top-of-the-line EF600mm f/4L IS USM super telephoto lens. Canon is developing the EF800mm f/5.6L IS USM in response to requests from photographers working in the fields of sports and news photography, who are looking for a fast, light-weight and high-performance lens that offers a longer focal length.
The Canon EF200mm f/2L IS USM is suitable for professionals who seek a brighter lens primarily for portraiture and indoor sports photography.
The new Canon EF800mm f/5.6L IS USM and EF200mm f/2L IS USM are both L (luxury)-series lenses and incorporate Canon’s high-performance Image Stabiliser to reduce the effects of hand held shake in low light conditions. The optimised lens element positioning and lens coating also minimise ghosting and flare prone to occur with digital SLR cameras.
Highly resistant to dust and water for use in harsh environments, both are produced from light weight magnesium alloy materials for durability. The new lenses also feature optical systems utilising special optical materials such as fluorite to correct chromatic aberrations and ensure high-resolution, high-contrast shooting performance.
Canon U.S.A., Inc., will exhibit prototypes of the new lenses at PhotoPlus Expo, taking place at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City from October 16th.
The EF800mm f/5.6L IS USM will be available from May 2008 and the Canon EF200mm f/2L IS USM will be available from March 2008. The new lenses will be available through Canon dealers nationally and the RRPs are yet to be confirmed. For more information contact Canon on 1800 021 167, or visit the website at canon.com.au.