Canon to release new telephoto lenses for EOS range

Canon has announced the development of two new high-end telephoto lenses. Both units incorporate Image Stabilization technology, durable, light-weight magnesium alloy construction and optical systems designed to correct chromatic aberrations and minimize ghosting and flare common in digital SLR cameras. The new offerings will expand the current Canon line of large aperture, telephoto L-series lenses to six, strengthening the EOS range of products.

The new Canon EF800mm f/5.6L IS USM and EF200mm f/2L IS USM are both L (luxury)-series lenses that feature Canon’s Image Stabilizer to reduce the effects of hand held shake in low light conditions. The optimized lens element positioning and lens coating also minimize ghosting and flare.

The EF800mm f/5.6L IS USM delivers telephoto performance and is being developed 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 EF200mm f/2L IS USM is suitable for professionals who seek a brighter lens primarily for portraiture and indoor sports photography.

The lenses are highly resistant to dust and water for use in harsh environments and both feature optical systems which utilize special materials such as fluorite to correct chromatic aberrations and ensure high-resolution, high-contrast shooting performance.

The EF200mm will be available for purchase from March 2008 with the EF800mm to follow in May. Prices for both models are yet to be determined.

The Company will exhibit prototypes of the new lenses at PhotoPlus Expo in New York City from October 18 to 20.

See the Canon website for further reading.