Canon 24-70mm f/2.8L II vs. 24-70mm f/2.8L

Canon has just announced an updated, improved version of it’s high-quality EF 24-70mm f/2.8L standard zoom, called the EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM.  (To understand what all the notions mean, please see my Canon Lens Notations post.)

Some would call this the full frame standard zoom, though as an EF lens it can also be used on non-full-frame cameras such as the 7D, 60D, and T3i/600D.  The difference is that on non-full-frame bodies, it will act more like a 38-112mm focal length lens due to the crop factor of the smaller sensors.

Canon 24-700mm f/2.8L II lens new updated improved
New Canon 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM – (image from Canon USA)

Many, including myself, had hoped for – or even expected – this update to incorporate image stabilization, but this was not included.  The image stabilization would have made it an even tougher decision between the new 24-70 f/2.8L II and the 24-105mm f/4L IS, which offers a similar focal length plus image stabilization, but has a minimum aperture of “only” f/4.0.

Canon states that the lens has been completely redesigned, and in addition to still offering great weather sealing like the original, the same .38m / 1.25 ft. minimum focus distance, and improved durability, it also now “features completely redesigned optics to provide outstanding clarity, image quality and durability. A compact design makes it ideal for carrying on every shoot, and a range of optical enhancements provide improved performance – capturing greater detail across the frame while reducing distortion throughout the entire zoom range, particularly at the maximum 70mm focal length.

With a redesigned optical system that includes two Ultra-low Dispersion (UD) and one Super UD aspheric elements to minimise chromatic aberration and colour blurring, the lens delivers consistently sharp, high-contrast images. Each lens element also features Canon’s optimised Super Spectra coatings to reduce ghosting and flare and ensure excellent colour balance. Additionally, a fluorine coating minimises the amount of dust, dirt and fingerprints that adhere to the front and rear of the lens, helping to maintain superior image quality.”

The original 24-70mm f/2.8L lens included “the use of two different types of aspherical lens elements and a UD (Ultra-low Dispersion) glass element for obtaining sharper image quality.”  (quotes from Canon press releases)

Canon 24-70mm f/2.8L original lens
Original Canon 24-70mm f/2.8L USM – (image from Cburnett, Wikipedia, GFDL license)
PLEASE do not put a cheap Tiffen filter on an L lens – use a high quality multi-coated B+W MRC filter

There are some significant differences in the design of the new lens vs. the older version.  They both have ultrasonic motors for autofocus and full time autofocus (you can override the AF by turning the focus ring without switching to manual focus).  And they both use an external zoom mechanism, meaning the lens extends as you zoom in and out.  However, the original lens extended as you zoomed toward the 24mm wide end, which is “backwards” from a typical zoom lens.  The new version acts as a more typical zoom, extending as you zoom towards the 70mm telephoto end.  They both include a lens hood, though the older hood attached to the main section of the lens and the lens extends inside of the hood, thus working more effectively as a hood throughout the entire focal range from wide to tele.  The hood of the new version attaches to the extending section, and thus is a smaller tulip style lens hood typical of most lenses.  Perhaps the new coatings and lens elements make up for any internal reflections that might have resulted from this less effective hood.  The new lens offers a lock switch for when it is retracted, though L lenses typically zoom so smoothly and tightly that they don’t tend to creep.

The sizes of the lenses are similar, though the new version is slightly shorter and lighter but wider.  Due to the changed design, the new lens boasts a larger 82mm filter size.  And the prices at this point are dramatically different.  As far as the image quality, it is certain that the new 24-70mm is going to demonstrate dramatically improved image quality, especially when paired with the new Canon 5D MkIII (Canon 5D X?) when it comes out, as it is rumored to boast 30+ MP, which is going to require excellent glass to fully take advantage of.

24-70mm f/2.8L
3.3″ x 4.9″
2.1 lbs (950 g)
77mm filter size
$1,269 at B&H
$1,299 on Amazon

24-70mm f/2.8L II
3.5″ x 4.4″
1.77 lbs (805 g)
82mm filter size
$2,299 at B&H available for pre-order, expected in mid-April

Canon 5D MkII at Lowest Price Ever

B and Photo Photo is selling the Canon 5D MkII body at the lowest price it has ever been: $1999.95.  Plus they include a great memory card and a shoulder bag for free!  Click on the image to head to B&H and learn more:

Canon 5D mark mk II low lowest price sale

Many are speculating, and I concur, that the replacement of the 5D Mk II (probably to be called the 5D Mark III) may be arriving in February 2012.  This doesn’t mean the 5D Mk II is outdated.  It is still an incredible camera with 21 megapixels, great low light/ high ISO performance, and of course the full frame sensor so that your wide angle lenses really go wide.  And 1080p video with all the frame rates, for the videographers.  Any aspiring pro or wedding photographer that won’t be able to afford the newest 5D Mk III when that arrives should consider taking advantage of this deal.

Go Beyond the Manual with my Canon 7D User’s Guide

I have completed a Canon 7D e book user’s guide, Canon 7D Experience – The Still Photographer’s Guide to Operation and Image Creation that goes beyond the EOS 7D manual to help you learn when and why to use the various controls, features, and custom settings of this powerful camera, including the advanced and sophisticated autofocus system and Custom Function settings. Written in the clear and concise manner of all Full Stop guides, Canon 7D Experience can help you learn to use your Canon 7D quickly and competently, to consistently create the types of images you want to capture.

Take control of your camera, the image taking process, and the photos you create!

Canon 7d book manual user guide instruction tutorial firmware 2 v 2.0 for dummies mark mk i ii 1 2 EOS experience

As one Canon user has said about the previous guide:

I don’t know how I could fully take advantage of all the features the camera has to offer without this publication! It’s well-organized, easy to understand, and succinct enough to keep your attention while still containing a wealth of information to get the most out of your camera.”

Price: $12.99 secure payment with PayPal or Credit card (via PayPal)
(plus 6.25% sales tax for residents of Massachusetts)

Buy Now with PayPal or    Buy Now with your Visa/MC

This instant download Canon 7D book is for those who wish to take fuller advantage of the capabilities of their camera and to go beyond Auto and Program modes and shoot competently in Av and Tv modes. To get you started, it includes explanations and recommended settings for all Custom Functions, Menu settings, and Movie Mode settings of the 7D. Aimed towards intermediate photographers, it also covers basic dSLR camera functions and exposure concepts for those new to digital SLR photography, and explains more advanced camera controls and operation, such as taking control of the powerful autofocus system for sharp focus of still or moving subjects, using the various metering modes and exposure compensation for correct exposure of every image, and utilizing dramatic depth of field. This guide builds upon the information provided in the manual and explains essential settings and information to help you get out there shooting in the real world.

This PDF e book can be read on your computer and printed on your printer, or transferred and read on an iPad, Android, or other tablet, Kindle, Nook, or other eReader. You can preview Canon 7D Experience at the following link. The preview shows the Table of Contents and Introduction, a sample 7D Menu Settings page, a sample Custom Functions page, and sample text pages.

http://www.dojoklo.com/Full_Stop/previews/Canon_7D_Experience-Preview.pdf

Canon 7D Experience not only covers the various settings, functions and controls of the Canon 7D, but it also explains when and why to use them for your photography. The guide focuses on still-photography with a brief introduction to the movie menus and settings to get you up and running with video. You will learn:

  • Setting Up Your 7D – All of the EOS 7D Custom Function settings and Menu settings, including movie mode menus, with brief descriptions and recommended settings for practical, everyday use. These settings are a significant part of what makes the 7D such a unique and powerful camera. Set up and customize the advanced features to work best for the way you photograph.
  • Aperture Priority Mode (Av) and Shutter Priority Mode (Tv) – How and when to use them to create dramatic depth of field or to freeze or express motion.
  • Auto Focusing Modes and Drive Modes – The 7D autofocus system is a revolutionary upgrade for Canon dSLR cameras, and taking control of it will enable you to successfully capture more action images. Learn the AF Modes and AF Area Modes, how they differ, how and when to use them to capture sharp images of both still and moving subjects. Also how and when to use focus lock and back-button focusing.
  • Exposure Metering Modes of the Canon 7D – How they differ, how and when to use them for correct exposures in every situation. Also how to make use of exposure lock.
  • Histograms, Exposure Compensation, Bracketing, and White Balance – Understanding and using these features for adjusting to the proper exposure in challenging lighting situations.
  • The Image Taking Process – A descriptive tutorial for using the settings and controls you just learned to take photos.
  • Composition – Brief tips, techniques, and explanations, including the creative use of depth of field.
  • Lenses – Explanation of Canon lenses and notations, and choosing your next lens.
  • Photography Accessories – The most useful accessories for day-to-day and travel photography.
  • Introduction to Video Settings – Some basic settings to get you started.

This digital guide to the Canon 7D is an 80 page, illustrated PDF document that expands upon the information found in the 7D manual, to help one begin to master their dSLR and learn to use the Canon 7D to its full capabilities. It is packed with helpful information applicable to the new and intermediate dSLR photographer – to begin to turn you into an advanced digital photographer!

Author: Douglas Klostermann
Format:
PDF – Instant Download
Page Count:
80 pages, illustrated
ISBN #:  978-1-4524-6479-4
Price: $12.99 secure payment with PayPal or Credit card (via PayPal)
(plus 6.25% sales tax for residents of Massachusetts)

Buy Now with PayPal or Buy Now with your Visa/MC

This PDF version can be:
-Read on your computer
-Printed from your printer
-Read on your Kindle, Nook, or other e-reader
-Read on any tablet, including iPad or iPhone following these instructions on the FAQ page

 

Other versions of Canon 7D Experience e-book are available:

The Kindle edition is available on Amazon
The Nook edition is available on BarnesandNoble.com
The iPad and iPhone version is available through iTunes or through the iBooks App on your iPhone/iPad.

 

What Readers Had to Say about Doug’s Previous Canon Guides Your World 60D and T2i Experience:

Essential Companion – Alas, a comprehensive and concise guide for hobbyists who desire to enhance their photography experiences. I highly recommend this guide to anyone who wants to get out of auto mode and learn how to take high-quality photos. It brilliantly explains how to apply advanced techniques and tips, walks you through the daunting task of menu settings, and smoothly guides you through the image-taking process. The instructions and explanations are easy to follow and well organized. The guide is a portable class on digital photography! A must-have if you want to learn how to use your camera to its fullest advantage.
Elizabeth J.

Best Guide to Using a T2i – I don’t know how I could fully take advantage of all the features the T2i has to offer without this publication! It’s well-organized, easy to understand, and succinct enough to keep your attention while still containing a wealth of information, tips and tricks to get the most out of your camera. I’m very happy that I found this guide.
-Nathan K.

A very helpful and clear step-by-step guide: This e-book is a low cost worthwhile investment thanks to your expertise.
-John T.