Nikon Wins European Professional Lens with 2 lenses
Both the Nikon AF-S Nikkor 14-24mm and Nikon AF-S 24-70mm f/2.8 G ED lenses have won the EISA Professional lens for 2008-2009.
Description
This
pair of Nikkor zooms represents the ideal optical partnership to equip
Nikon’s professional full frame cameras. Covering a broad focal range
at f/2.8, and delivering very high optical…
Canon announces EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS lens
Canon today has also introduced
the EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Zoom lens. With an equivalent focal
length of 29-320mm, the lens offers 11x zoom range. It also features a
16 element, 12 group construction including UD and aspherical lens
elements and a 4-stop optical Image Stabilizer. This lens has answered…
Tamron announces three Di Full-Size Format lenses
Tamron today have announced the availability dates of three new Di lens series in
Full-Size Format. The Tamron SP AF90mm F/2.8 Di MACRO for Nikon is a
high-performance macro lens but also as a medium telephoto lens
suitable for all photographic applications including landscape and
portraiture. (The lens is already available…
Nikon release the AF-S DX 18-105mm F/3.5-5.6G ED VR
The AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-105mm F/3.5-5.6G ED VR is a new lens designed to partner Nikons
D90 DSLR. The Nikkor 18-105mm lens offers a focal length equivalent to
27 to 157.5mm in 35mm format, built-in Vibration Reduction and Silent
Wave Motor, and…
Phase One introduces 3.5/45 mm Tilt / Shift lens
Phase One today have launched the 3.5/45 mm Tilt/Shift lens. Specially designed for the professional
photographer, this small, lightweight lens is ideal for location or
studio applications. It offers up to 12 mm shift and 8 degrees tilt for
maximum flexibility. When used with the Phase One 645 camera…
Tamron announces new Di lenses for Canon and Nikon
Tamron today have announced two new Di lenses designed for exclusive use on Canon and Nikon (with Built-in AF Motor) small sensor DSLR cameras The SP AF10-24mm Di II, the first-ever ultra wide-angle lens for digital SLRs, features a focal length range with the 16mm ultra wide-angle to 37mm…
The Canon Zoom Lens EF24-105mm f/4L IS USM, which was designed to complete the f/4L zoom series lineup, is a standard zoom lens covering a wide range of focal lengths, from 24mm wide angle to 105mm mid-telephoto. The lens incorporates an Image Stabilizer (IS) that gives the equivalent effect of a shutter speed three stops faster, allowing the handheld capture of shots that would otherwise be blurred by Camera shake.
The EF24-105mm f/4L IS USM delivers the high-Contrast, high-definition images for which Canon's L-series is renowned. Three Aspherical lens elements (two replica, one glass mold) combined with Canon's proprietary Super UD (ultra-low Dispersion) lens element effectively correct Chromatic aberration throughout the entire zoom range to realize outstanding image quality. Designed to meet the needs of professional and experienced amateurs for a wide range of photographic subjects, the new lens offers Full-time manual focusing, which enables users to focus even in the AF mode, and a durable dust-resistant construction, ensuring unfailing performance even under harsh conditions.
When manoeuvarability is important and the lens quality is crucial, this L-class lens stands out a popular lightweight standard zoom, with very high quality opics. The Canon lens has built-in optical image stabilisation whitch is a very popular choice amongst serious photographers. The 24-105mm range is ideal for general photography and the 24mm field of view is not only great for full size sensors like the 5D, but also still gives a wide view or cropped sensor. Although there are better optics but at this price this is good vaule for the money.
Why should you care what I think?
My relationship with this item: Editor review
Conclusions at a glance
Would you recommend this Item: Undecided Pros: Great glass and focal range at a sensible price. Cons: Could be fatser.
Last updated: Thursday, 26 June 2008
User Lens Reviews
Average user rating from: 106 user(s)
Overall rating (weighted)
4.5
Sharpness
4.5
Build Quality
4.5
AF Speed
4.5
Value for Money
4.5
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4 of 4 people found the following review helpful
I chose this over the 24-70mm f/2.8 L lens, Sunday, 10 August 2008
Overall rating (weighted)
5.0
Sharpness
5.0
Build Quality
5.0
AF Speed
5.0
Value for Money
5.0
This lens is one of the best general purpose, all-around lenses in Canon's lineup. In order of preference, here are the top 5 things that I love about this lens: - sharp images - very versatile range of focal lengths - image stabilization - constant f/4.0 aperture - L lens build quality
Because of the quality glass that Canon puts into its L lens series, this lens takes some tack-sharp photos. The range of focal lengths is excellent for portraits, stills, some landscapes and architectural shots. The auto-focus is fast on all focal lengths. The image stabilization is huge -- it gives you up to 3 additional stops in aperture. This translates to action-stopping shutter speeds. The constant f/4.0 aperture means that you don't have to suffer a decrease in shutter speed as you zoom in on a subject, a problem with variable aperture Zoom lenses. Although the f/4.0 is not as desirable as an f/2.8 for low-light situations, it is great in decent lighting. I have a Speedlite 580EX II, so the range of that flash works perfectly with this lens when the situation calls for a hot shoe flash. Finally, the build quality is top-notch. The auto-focus is quiet, the lens body is rugged, and the weather-seal is very effective.
I was debating between this lens and the Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8 L lens. Although I would have loved the 24-70mm's constant f/2.8, I found the lack of IS and the loss of 35mm in focal length to be a huge compromise. With the 3-stop gain using the IS on the 24-105mm, I get back more than the 24-70mm's f/2.8. For bokeh purposes, the 8-blade aperture of the 24-105mm is still very good, although there's no question that a wider opening would provide even more Blur. The only thing that would be able to pry this lens away from me as my favorite all-around lens is if Canon came out with a 24-105mm L IS lens with a constant f/2.8. But then that would be a huge lens, and might start getting in the way of effective everyday use. Right now, this lens is the perfect size for my general-purpose needs.
Overall, I am tremendously satisfied with this lens. I may eventually still get the 24-70mm f/2.8 L, but might wait to see if Canon introduces that with IS first.
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1 of 1 people found the following review helpful
Great Lens, Thursday, 07 August 2008
Overall rating (weighted)
4.8
Sharpness
5.0
Build Quality
4.0
AF Speed
5.0
Value for Money
5.0
This is a great lens. My first L lens and I am sold. Great clairity. Now my standard lens.
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0 of 0 people found the following review helpful
Nice lens, Monday, 28 July 2008
Overall rating (weighted)
4.0
Sharpness
3.0
Build Quality
4.0
AF Speed
5.0
Value for Money
4.0
Awesome lens, delivered on time and in good condition. My only complaint is that the canon box is not sealed; so, anyone could handle it before it arrives. I would like it even more if it was faster (2.8);but, it would surely be out of sight pricewise in that case.
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1 of 1 people found the following review helpful
Canon L series IS lens, Saturday, 21 June 2008
Overall rating (weighted)
4.8
Sharpness
5.0
Build Quality
5.0
AF Speed
5.0
Value for Money
4.0
This lens bought for general use including many meetings. Am able to work entirely without flash, even in darkened rooms during PowerPoint presentations. Superb --- allows extremely low shutter speeds.
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0 of 0 people found the following review helpful
Not sure it is worth the extra money, Tuesday, 17 June 2008
Overall rating (weighted)
2.8
Sharpness
3.0
Build Quality
3.0
AF Speed
2.0
Value for Money
3.0
This is my first L lens and I upgraded from 28-135mm USM IS lens on my EOS 20D. While the pictures are sharp, I am seeing color differences bet. the old 28-135 and this lens and I am not sure I like this one better! The color/tint seems to be flatter. Only thing I definitely see the improvement is the f/4 at 105 too which I couldn't get.
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5 of 5 people found the following review helpful
the perfect replacement for the 28-135 variable, Sunday, 01 June 2008
Overall rating (weighted)
4.8
Sharpness
4.0
Build Quality
5.0
AF Speed
5.0
Value for Money
5.0
This is the perfect replacement for the 28-135 variable lens. I did not want to give up the reach but I wanted to gain a fixed f stop. Also, I knew my pics with the 28 - 135 lens were nice but I wanted awesome. I must say it's such a sharp lens. If it's not sharp - I messed it up. And may I say I tested the 24-70 2.8 lens and I think this one is sharper. And it's sharp on every f stop. As for the IS, I was amazed that I was hand holding this lens at 1/15th of a second. Usually I can't go below 1/80th as I am so very picky about how sharp the pics are but this one is amazing. Some complain about the weight - well, you get what you pay for. i don't think it's bad but I often shoot with a 70-200 2.8 and that's a beast for me.
I was hesistant because of the price, but please don't worry. And if you aren't sure..get it from B&H photo as they have a 15 day return policy (however, you won't be needing it).
It is the lens that stays on my camera literally 95% of the time unless I need more distance then I go for the 70-200 or if I want more bokah then I go for the 50 1.8. Incidentally if you shoot at 105mm f4 your pics will be so blurry in the background you will not be wanting the 2.8 (I did tests). ALso check out fredmiranda.com as well as http://www.the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/; amazing sites with great reviews.
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3 of 3 people found the following review helpful
Another Great Canon Product, Wednesday, 21 May 2008
Overall rating (weighted)
4.8
Sharpness
4.0
Build Quality
5.0
AF Speed
5.0
Value for Money
5.0
Canon has nailed it again with another great lens. It does come with a heavy price tag but it is worth the money for the results you will get. This is probably the best all purpose lens I have seen onthe market. If you buy this lens, it will quickly become on of the lenses that is on your camera for most of your shoots. I have yet to find a flaw!
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2 of 2 people found the following review helpful
The BEST walkaround lens to acompany your Canon DS, Friday, 16 May 2008
Overall rating (weighted)
4.5
Sharpness
5.0
Build Quality
4.0
AF Speed
4.0
Value for Money
5.0
This is my favorite walk-around lens. The weight doesn't bother me, it just adds to the fact that it is built well and with high quality glass. The focal range is ideal for most situations, but you'll probably want a wider lens like the 17-40 f/4 L USM lens for landscape or large group photos.
The zoom and focus rings function very smooth, but, a little firm when compared to the 17-40 f/4 L USM, and surprisingly, even compared to the 70-200 f/4 L IS USM lens. I find that given the long focal range, if you are shooting in with the lens in a vertical position (shooting images in the sky or on the floor) that the zoom ring can show some resistance due to the weight of the glass being moved inside.
All in all, I still highly recommend this lens. The only other comparable lens is the 24-70 f/2.8 L USM lens... you get the larger constant aperture, but you give up the image stabilization that is offered on the 24-105 f/4 L IS USM lens.
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0 of 0 people found the following review helpful
A Marraiage Made in Heaven, Thursday, 27 March 2008
Overall rating (weighted)
4.8
Sharpness
5.0
Build Quality
4.0
AF Speed
5.0
Value for Money
5.0
The Canon L 24-105 lens and the Canon 5D. I have been using them together for two years and am very well satisfied. I also use the Canon Fish-eye. It's all pricey but the combination makes for the best photographic equipment I have ever used, and I bought my first Nikon in 1970.
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2 of 2 people found the following review helpful
As good as I expected but..., Wednesday, 12 March 2008
Overall rating (weighted)
4.5
Sharpness
5.0
Build Quality
5.0
AF Speed
4.0
Value for Money
4.0
Turn the IS off when you are using a tripod. Don't believe some of the other reviewers who say you should always leave it on. I have ruined many a 1 second shot with a tripod when I forgot to turn the IS off. The same time shots on tripod have always been very good without the IS. What's more the IS only has a limited lifespan and repair is very expensive.
My lens is amazing at 24mm, but a little less sharp at 105 mmm (you have to stop down to get very good results).
IS may reduce camera shake, but it won't help if the subject moves like people at a party. This is why I also bought a 50mm f/1.8 lens.
You might want to invest a small sum in PTLens so as to remove the distortion that is a little obvious at 24mm.
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2 of 2 people found the following review helpful
Getting a lemon! It happens., Tuesday, 04 March 2008
Overall rating (weighted)
5.0
Sharpness
5.0
Build Quality
5.0
AF Speed
5.0
Value for Money
5.0
Blaming soft pictures on the lens however is a whole other story. You can't expect exceptional pictures using the camera's auto settings and shooting without an external flash and diffuser. It's not going to happen. (OK maybe 1 in 100). But let's be realistic here! When I shoot at events 1 in 100 will not do. 1 in 10 will not do. Heck 1 in 5 won't do! I get 1 chance to take the shot. If I am very lucky it's maybe 2 but that's rare. Every shot has to be spot on! It's the difference between getting the gig or not.
So stop crying about how bad this lens is because it's not! To learn how to take pictures in manual mode, pick up a book or two and take a few classes. You will realize in no time that this lens is a great and versatile performer.
Some reviews rant on and on about how bad certain lenses are without providing any feedback on what equipment they use. What settings did they use? What time of day? Inside or outside? It would be very helpful if they provided more information other than stating why the lens is soft or not performing. Half of the time I wonder if they actually own the item. Some may just be Canon haters.
That said I currently shoot with a 20D (waiting for a 5D Upgrade). I use the 580EX II and the 430 EX Speedlites with the Lightsphere II and the WhaleTail. My primary lenses are the 24-105 F/4L IS and the amazing EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS Lens.
The pictures I have been able to take with this lens are remarkable. I do event photography and this lens helps me capture a great deal of the action and has just landed me another gig for a big event. They sent out pictures of other 5 photographers and took a vote on who's pictures where the best. I ended up getting the most votes. I got a little creative and I think that did it.
Photography takes a lot of dedication and money. Learning all the acronyms and figuring out how it all fits and works together. No one said that it's going to be easy. But we all started there at one point in our lives. Just please don't blame a lens for your inability to take a crisp or creative picture.
It's all you!!! (Unless you really got a lemon)
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0 of 0 people found the following review helpful
Clean!!!!!, Thursday, 28 February 2008
Overall rating (weighted)
4.5
Sharpness
4.0
Build Quality
4.0
AF Speed
5.0
Value for Money
5.0
The Canon EF 24-105mm f/4 IS L is the only zoom lens I own, and the shots are clean!
A test of my 50mm and 85mm primes at 4.0 showed me images that varied in color saturation and contrast as well as chromatic abberation. Perhaps not surprisingly, the 24-105 out-performed the non-"L" glass even at their respective focal lengths.
The images were richer and sharper with the "L"-as it should be, considering the cost factor, but it's still surprising given the supposed superiority of primes over zooms.
I still love the dreamy quality of the 85mm for portraiture (and it's a fast lens...great for available light shooting!), but am considering retiring the 50mm, since the focal range is covered so much better by the 24-105 L.
So, what would I recommend? The 24-105mm has image stabilization for hand-held shots (and it works)and it is sharper than my primes, so I would say you could safely use it for most shots...cleaning up things a Bit in Photoshop if edges get vignetted at the wide end (I use a full-frame sensor camera).
Then, think hard about what else you might need. I know that for the dreamy quality of shallow DOF, the 85mm prime is my "go-to", so I'm keeping her. Maybe a very fast, super wide-angle will finish out my kit nicely.
Telephoto? I say, get close or go home, unless you're doing wild life (and I'm not). Then again, a few thousand bucks falls into my lap, maybe I will start shooting telephoto!
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1 of 1 people found the following review helpful
Perfect walk-around lens for Canon EOS 5D, Wednesday, 30 January 2008
Overall rating (weighted)
5.0
Sharpness
5.0
Build Quality
5.0
AF Speed
5.0
Value for Money
5.0
I purchased this lens with the 5D about 6 months ago. Like many other people, it was a toss up between the 24-105 f/4L and 24-70 f.2.8L. A number of years ago, I used to shoot a fair amount of sports and back then, f/2.8 was absolutely critical. Nowadays, I shoot more travel, portraits, candids and landscapes and stopping action is a bit less critical. I also wanted something a bit smaller and lighter for travel.
I decided to give the 24-105 a shot knowing the IS would give me a 2-3 extra stops to compensate for the lack of f/2.8. It's also a bit more compact than the 2.8. I have to say, it's the most versatile lens I've ever used. On its first outing, I took it to shoot a naval shipyard, using a variety of focal lengths, lighting conditions inside and out, white balance, you name it. I was quite impressed with the quality of images I got, from ISO 100-3200.
From a sharpness perspective, it's up there. I'd say a hair below the best of Canon's primes, but for a zoom it's good. The zooming action is smooth and it focuses very quickly and quietly under most conditions.
At 24mm, there is noticeable distortion and a bit of Vignetting. That is to be expected and I don't necessarily blame the lens. Zooms have some trade-offs and these are two I'm willing to live with for the flexibility. They are also both easily correctable in post-processing.
If I were shooting sports or weddings, I would probably opt for the 24-70, but the 24-105 complements my style of shooting very well. Two thumbs up. Also, my experience with this lens is on a full-frame body. Might not be wide enough on a 1.6x crop body, in which case I'd recommend the 17-55mm f/2.8 IS.
