Canon gets two new image-stabilised lenses

Canon has announced the Australian availability of two of its new image-stabilised lenses, the 24-70mm f/4 L IS USM and 35mm f/2 IS USM.

The two lenses don't exactly plug holes in the existing line-up, as there is already a slightly faster 24-70mm f/2.8 L lens which was introduced earlier this year, as well as a premium L series version of the 35mm at f/1.4. What the lenses do is add image stabilisation and, presumably, more affordable entry points at these focal lengths.

On the 24-70mm lens, Canon's Hybrid IS (image stabilisation) system works by correcting angular and shift camera shake. The lens also has a macro feature when shooting at 70mm, or its maximum telephoto length. It has a minimum focusing distance of 20cm when in macro mode. The lens is also weather and dust resistant. The lens will be offered in one kit configuration with the new EOS 6D when it launches in December.

The 35mm f/2 adds regular image stabilisation to a prime lens, and Canon claims faster autofocusing times, presumably over older 35mm models. This lens will also be on sale in Australia from December. Canon Australia no longer issues official RRPs for its products, though the US retail pricing indicates that they will be mid-range models. Let's also hope that this results in a mid-range price for Australian buyers, too.