Canon Announced EF35mm f/1.4 L II USM

Canon recently announced the arrival of a new lens, the Canon EF35mm f/1.4 L II USM. Although I didn’t own the predecessor EF35mm f/1.4 L USM, I had the opportunity to test/use/play with the EF35mm f/1.4 L USM on a few occasions and it is a beautiful lens on a full frame DSLR. The EF35mm f/1.4 L is well liked by both professionals and advanced photographers, for me personally, I like the 35mm out on street photography theme outing.

Let me share with you more information on the Canon EF35mm f/1.4 L II USM lens from the press release –

Canon continues to push the boundaries of technology with the launch of its latest large-diameter fixed focal length lens. The EF35mm f/1.4L II USM is the first model to use Blue Spectrum Refractive optics (BR optics), an optical element capable of achieving a new level of sharpness by reducing chromatic aberration when combined with concave and convex lenses. This enables the lens to render superb image quality and performance, making full use of the brightness of a large aperture.

“The EF35mm f/1.4L II USM is the first Canon lens equipped with progressive blue spectrum refractive optics to deliver a new level of image clarity and high performance for today’s photographer,’’ said Edwin Teoh, Assistant Director, Consumer Business Marketing, Canon Singapore. “Coupled with its improved magnification, this versatile lens will allow users to capture greater details in their pictures.’’

Unrivalled image quality with BR optics

As the first Canon lens equipped with BR optics, the EF35mm f/1.4L II USM will offer unparalleled image quality. BR optics is capable of correcting chromatic aberration, thus significantly reducing colour fringing, a common occurrence found in large-diameter lenses. In addition to BR optics, the lens is made up of two aspherical lenses and a UD lens, which helps it achieve high image quality across the entire image frame from edge-to-edge.

Coupled with the excellent anti-reflectivity qualities of SubWavelength Structure Coating (SWC), flaring and ghosting issues common with wide-angle lenses can be suppressed to produce images of higher quality. Photographers can also achieve more attractive bokeh effects with the newly designed 9-blade circular aperture.

With its powerful lens composition, the EF35mm f/1.4L II USM is capable of delivering enhanced maximum magnification (from 0.18x to 0.21x). By reducing the minimum focusing distance from 0.3m to 0.28m, users will be able to get closer to subjects and shoot more dramatic close-ups. In tighter frames, small subjects can be captured more intimately while preserving intricate details.

High durability and reliability

The EF35mm f/1.4L II USM has been designed for high functionality and durability with high-grade materials. The lens elements have been reinforced with a fluorine coating, which protects the lens from natural elements such as moisture, oil and dust. The high level of water and dust resistance makes the EF35mm f/1.4L II USM a durable companion for rigorous use among professionals.

The new EF 35mm f/1.4L II USM is expected to be available in Singapore from mid-October 2015 and pricing will be advised at a later date.