New Sigma ART series lens 24-35mm F/2

Update #2 (7/20/15): Price at $999 - Preorder now from B&H Canon Mount | Nikon Mount | Sigma MountUpdate: The lens is now official - Expected arrival at the end of July. No word on price - I suspect it will be under $1000.  My comment about the 18-35 ART lens - "it's like carrying around a bag of primes" also applies to this lens and Sigma has actually said something similar "It covers three of the most commonly used prime lenses, 24mm, 28mm and 35mm all in one lens. "- I think they watched my video ;)Listings are now live on B&H Photo but incredibly thin on details we care about - Price and a firm ship date.Will you be ordering?Sigma 24-35 f/2 Canon Mount | Nikon Mount | Sigma MountBased on comments you left on the Facebook post - interest is mixed, many of you feel similar to me, the range here is just short enough to be a little less exciting- though the sharpness and the fact that you get f/2 will be lovely.Original Post:We are a huge fan of the ART series lenses. Every lens I have tried has been exceptionally sharp with top-notch build quality. See what's in our bag for the Sigma lenses we use daily.The next lens Sigma will be announcing is the 24-35 f/2 and to be honest this has me scratching my head.   Sure f/2 in a zoom lens is quite amazing, similar to the amazing Sigma 18-35 f/1.8 for crop sensors but that range is awfully short.Are you interested? How would you use?  I would be more interested if they could get the range closer to 50, so a 24-50 f/2 would be sweet but ending at 35mm feels a bit limiting. Photos courtesy of digicame-info.comThanks Knut Aage Dahl for alerting me to the info.Full Press Release from SigmaThe Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce that we are going to introduce the SIGMA 24-35mm F2 DG HSM | Art, the world's first*1 large-aperture full-frame wide-angle zoom lens offering F2 brightness throughout the zoom range.While offering the premier optics of the Art line, this lens covers 24mm, 28mm and 35mm focal lengths. Incredible performance overturns the conventional perception of a zoom lens.SIGMA was determined to create a zoom lens that offers the same brightness and resolution as a fixed focal length lens: in other words, the highest level of optical performance. The result of this challenge was the SIGMA 18-35mm F1.8 DC HSM | Art, the world’s first zoom to offer a fast F1.8 aperture value throughout the zoom range. Building on this concept, SIGMA has developed the new SIGMA 24-35mm F2 DG HSM | Art for 35mm full frame sensor. It allows photographers to carry one lens to do the work of three fixed focal length lenses, a 24mm, 28mm and 35mm — with F2 brightness and top optical performance. One package delivers flexible functionality and high convenience. In particular, at the 24mm and 35mm focal lengths, this lens offers the performance that is equivalent to that of two prime lenses in the Art line. Instead of changing one high-performance fixed focal length lens for another, simply zoom. This is a new zoom lens for 35mm full frame sensor SLRs that offers the quality of a fixed focal length lens at various angles of view.Key features1. The world’s first large-aperture full-frame zoom lens offering a wide open aperture of F2 throughout the zoom rangeA large-diameter zoom lens covering the full frame image sensor. Optical performance equivalent to a fixed focal length lens throughout the entire zoom range. These are the concepts the SIGMA 24-35mm F2 DG HSM embodies. It covers three of the most commonly used prime lenses, 24mm, 28mm and 35mm all in one lens. In order to achieve an attractive bokeh effect at wide aperture, we have developed the world's first zoom lens for the 35mm full frame sensor with an F2 aperture value throughout the zoom range*1.2. Outstanding optical performance of the fixed focal length lenses in SIGMA’s Art lineThe SIGMA 24-35mm F2 DG HSM builds on the concept of the SIGMA 18-35mm F1.8 DC HSM | Art, the world’s first zoom lens to offer F1.8 brightness throughout the zoom range. Thanks to the outstanding optical performance, the lens provides the quality of high performance fixed focal length lenses in the Art line.3. Covering the range of three fixed focal length wide-angle lensesDelivering excellent functionality and convenience, one lens offers the equivalent quality of three high-performance fixed focal length lenses at F2 brightness: 24mm, 28mm and 35mm. With a minimum focusing distance of 28cm and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:4.4, this lens is suitable for close-up shooting, portraits with an attractive bokeh and deep-focus landscape photography. Photographers have access to the angle of view equivalent to that of three wide-angle lenses without having to switch them. While achieving the desired background effect can be difficult with a conventional wide-angle lens, the large diameter of this lens allows photographers to open the aperture wide and use the shallow focus to achieve stunning results.4. Incorporating SIGMA’s latest technologiesTo realize a large-diameter zoom lens for full frame cameras with F2 brightness, SIGMA designed each and every part with uncompromising care and quality. The lens incorporates large-diameter aspherical lens elements, which require advanced technologies to manufacture, one FLD (“F” Low Dispersion)*2 glass and seven SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass elements, of which two are aspherical lenses. The advanced optics and optimized lens power distribution minimize spherical aberration, axial chromatic aberration and field curvature, resulting in outstanding optical performance. Even at widest aperture, this lens delivers breathtaking image quality.5. Convenient handlingThe inner focusing system eliminates front lens rotation, enhancing the lens' stability and allowing use of Circular Polarizing filters. This specification is particularly convenient for shooting video.Other featuresMinimum focusing distance of 28cmWith a minimum focusing distance of 28cm and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:4.4, this lens is excellent for close-up photography.Designed to minimize flare and ghostingFrom an early stage in the lens design process, flare and ghosting have been measured to establish an optical design resistant to strong incident light sources such as backlighting. The Super Multi-Layer Coating reduces flare and ghosting and provides sharp and high contrast images even in backlit conditions. The included lens hood can be attached to block out extraneous light, which can have a negative effect on rendering performance.Hyper Sonic Motor ensures High AF SpeedThe HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor) ensures a silent, high-speed AF function. By optimizing the AF algorithm, smoother AF is achieved. Also, this lens offers full-time MF by rotating the focus ring of the lens while auto focusing*3. Without changing the AF/MF Focus Mode Switch, it allows faster focus adjustment.Rounded DiaphragmThe 9 blade-rounded diaphragm creates an attractive blur to the out-of-focus areas of the image.Brass bayonet mountThis lens incorporates a brass bayonet mount which has both high accuracy and durability. A special treatment to reinforce its strength is applied to the surface giving it greater strength and making it highly resistant to long-term use.Applicable for the Mount Conversion ServiceAs an experienced lens manufacturer that has been creating a diverse range of interchangeable lenses, we have started the innovative "Mount Conversion Service*4". With this chargeable service, the mount of your current SIGMA lenses can be changed to another mount of your choice. It gives new life to your favorite lenses when you wish to use them on a different camera body.Art line delivers high-level artistic expressionSIGMA is organizing all its interchangeable lenses into three product lines; Contemporary, Art, and Sports, where each line has a distinctive concept. Designed with a focus on sophisticated optical performance and abundant expressive power, our Art line delivers high-level artistic expression. With the astonishing rendering performance that meets the highest standard, along with landscapes, portraits, still-lifes, close-ups, and general snaps, they are perfect for the kind of photography that unleashes the inner artist. Ideal for studio photography, they offer just as much expressive scope when capturing architecture and starry skies and many other scenes.Customization and flexible adjustment for convenience or a specific purpose is possible. SIGMA USB DOCK that is designed exclusively for the new lens line-ups.With the optional SIGMA USB DOCK, you can update your lens firmware, adjust focus points and customize Full-time MF function settings as well as the timing to operate the Full-time MF function. By attaching this lens to a SIGMA USB DOCK, which is connected to a computer, the dedicated software "SIGMA Optimization Pro" offers various types of customization and adjustment.New product lines from SGV concepts that are setting new benchmarks for image quality.Design ConceptWith the new product lines, supplied hoods incorporate rubber for the connected part. Lens caps and AF/MF switches are also newly designed in order to improve usability. For the internal parts, various metals and a new material called TSC (Thermally Stable Composite)*5, which works well with metal, are located to achieve products with high accuracy. The lens barrel includes the year of release, engraved for users to recognize when the lens was released.Evaluation with SIGMA's own MTF measuring system "A1"We used to measure lens performance with an MTF measuring system using conventional sensors. However, we've now developed our own proprietary MTF (modulation transfer function) measuring system (A1) using 46-megapixel Foveon direct image sensors. Even previously undetectable high-frequency details are now within the scope of our quality control inspections. All SIGMA 24-35mm F2 DG HSM lenses will all be checked using "A1*6" before they are shipped.Made in JapanAll SIGMA's manufacturing – right down to molds and parts – with a few exceptions, are carried out under a single integrated production system, entirely in Japan. We are now one of the very few manufacturers whose products are solely "made in Japan". We like to think our products are somehow imbued with the essence of our homeland, blessed as it is with clean air and water, and focused, hard-working people. We pride ourselves on the authentic quality of SIGMA products, born of a marriage between highly attuned expertise and intelligent, advanced technology. Our sophisticated products have satisfied professionals and lovers of photography all over the world, because our manufacturing is based on genuine craftsmanship, underpinned by the passion and pride of our experts.Footnotes*1 Among interchangeable lenses for 35mm full frame image sensors (June, 2015)*2 FLD glass is the highest level low dispersion glass available with extremely high light transmission. This optical glass has a performance equal to fluorite glass which has a low refractive index and low dispersion compared to current optical glass. It also benefits from high anomalous dispersion. These characteristics give excellent correction for residual chromatic aberration (secondary spectrum) which cannot be corrected by ordinary optical glass and ensures high definition and high contrast images.*3 The default setting of Full-time MF function varies for each mount.*4 This "Mount Conversion Service" is different from a normal repair. In order to apply for the service, please contact your nearest authorized subsidiary / SIGMA distributor.*5 TSC (Thermally Stable Composite) offers thermal expansion characteristics similar to those of aluminum. Parts made with TSC deform less, making possible lens construction of extremely high precision. As compared to polycarbonate containing 20% glass, a commonly used material, TSC offers approximately 70% higher elasticity. As compared to polycarbonate containing 30% glass, it offers 25% higher elasticity. (Comparison is between SIGMA-produced components.)*6 A1：Aizu 1

Tamron 16-300 vs Sigma 18-300

Sigma 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM Contemporary

vs

Tamron 16-300mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC PZD MACRO

These two APS-C lenses give you an equivalent range of 28mm to 480mm!!  A huge range and this I am calling this

The battle of convenience. Two Super Zoom lenses face off!

I am generally not a fan of do-it-all lenses. Lenses that cover this much range make sacrifices in quality—sharpness, distortion, chromatic aberration. But when I reviewed the newer Tamron 16-300 a few months ago, I was pleasantly surprised by its performance. Yes, it still has issues, but it held up quite well. And I certainly enjoy the convenience—especially when traveling or hiking—of carrying just one lens that provides a huge range, decent macro capabilities, and image stabilization for handheld video.

Then Sigma released an 18-300, and I have been asked repeatedly to compare these two lenses.

Bottom Line on These Lenses

These lenses are for someone who is happy with the quality of the kit lens that came with their camera but wants more zoom without having to switch lenses.

These lenses are not for someone who frequently shoots in low light or wants the absolute sharpest image quality.

Personally, I suggest carrying one of these do-it-all lenses along with a small prime like a 24mm or 35mm. It’s a compromise on the carry-only-one-lens philosophy, but it gives you an excellent low-light, sharp lens option when you really need it—without adding much bulk or weight to your camera bag.

Now, Which of These Two Lenses Is Better?

I’ll give you the answer up front: 9 out of 10 times, I would pick the Tamron over the Sigma, despite the Sigma being marginally sharper at some focal lengths.

Why? The Tamron has faster focusing, full-time manual focus, weather sealing, a nicer focus indicator, and starts just a little wider.

Buy The Tamron 16-300

Lets Compare Sigma 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM Contemporary vs Tamron 16-300mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II VC PZD MACRO Point by Point

Build Quality & Features – Both lenses have similar construction, made of tough plastic. From a distance, you might mistake the Sigma for metal, but it’s the same basic material as the Tamron. Both feel well made, feature telescoping zoom, and have internal focusing—great for using circular polarizers.

• Filter Size: Tamron uses 67mm; Sigma uses 72mm.

• Lens Hood: Both include one.

One downside of the Tamron is its small and slippery AF/MF and IS (VC) switches. Sigma’s switches are slightly taller and easier to operate. However, the Tamron offers full-time manual focus, a great feature that allows quick fine-tuning. On a lens with this much range, focusing can be slow, and the ability to assist AF or manually fine-tune focus makes for a much smoother experience.

The Tamron’s stabilization also seems slightly better—noticeable in slower shutter speed handholding and when shooting video, where it appears just a bit smoother.

Weight – Sigma: 1lb 5oz, Tamron: 1lb 4oz.

Focusing Speed – Both use ultrasonic focusing systems (HSM for Sigma, PZD for Tamron). I tested them at Longwood Gardens using a Canon 7D Mark II on a moving train display. In both One Shot and AI Servo modes, the Tamron consistently kept focus on trains moving directly toward me. With the Sigma, some shots were slightly out of focus—it was just a bit slower. The Tamron also performed slightly smoother in video focusing.

Macro Capabilities – Identical for both lenses.

• Close Focus Distance: 15” with AF, ~6” with MF.

• Magnification: Same for both.

• Sigma’s 2x Magnification Filter: A $50 screw-on filter designed to double magnification.

Image Quality

• Sharpness: The Sigma is slightly sharper, and when viewing at 100% or more, the difference is noticeable.

• Chromatic Aberration: The Sigma shows significantly more purple/magenta fringing, which may be due to its increased sharpness.

Buy The Tamron 16-300 | Buy the SIgma 18-300

Review Sigma 24-105 f/4 OS Lens

The new Sigma 24-105 f/4 OS lens from Sigma is exceptionally sharp and offers awesome image stabilization. Are those two features worth the drawbacks to shooting with a lens like this?Watch the Video Review of the Sigma 24-105: 

Sigma 24-105 Pros

• Exceptionally Sharp across the range from 24-105. You will not find a lens that is as sharp that covers this range.
• A very useful walk around range for full frame cameras. Useful for crop sensors too but there are other options that make more sense.
• Excellent Image Stabilization (OS as Sigma calls it) for video or lower light photography

Sigma 24-105 Cons

• Heavy (about 2 lbs)
• No weather sealing
• Image Stabilization (OS) cannot be left on when on a tripod*

*It generally is a good idea to turn Image Stabilization OFF when the camera is on a tripod or stable surface - some IS systems are intelligent enough to detect when on a tripod or stable surface and turn off. Systems like the Sigma 24-105 do not and longer shutter speed images will be ruined if you leave IS on.

Sigma 24-105 vs Canon 24-105

The Sigma is sharper and cheaper* than the Canon.Strengths of the Canon

• Large focus ring is good for video
• Weather sealed
• Cheaper if bought whitebox or used

Strengths of the Sigma

• SHARP, noticeably sharper than the Canon at most focal lengths
• Better build quality (except no weather sealing)
• Better resale value (at this time the Sigma is selling used for almost as much as it sells new - this is due to the build quality but mostly from the scarcity of the lens)

Sigma retails for $899, *Canon retails new for $1149 but can often be found as a whitebox (originally part of a kit now sold separately - legit and full warranty) for $700-800. Used the Canon sells for $600Support my work - Rent from Lumoid.com  or Buy from B&H Photo/Video or AmazonJeffrey Friedl's Lightroom Plugin mentioned in this video: http://regex.info/blog/lightroom-goodies/data-plot [He has a ton more so spend some time looking at all of the options.] Walk around options for owners of Crop sensor cameras - Canon T5i, 70D, Nikon D5300, D7100 etcAs sharp as the Sigma 24-105 is the Sigma 18-35 f/1.8 Click to see my review and sample images. No IS and significantly less range.The Sigma 17-70 f/2.8-4  offers a similar range, very good OS and good image quality/sharpness.[green_message]Source: http://ift.tt/1uFToXZ [/green_message] Follow me on Facebook at http://ift.tt/1uV7XXi

Canon 24mm EF-S f/2.8 Available Now

Now Shipping priced at $149. Preorder from B&H Photo Video or Adorama. This is going to be a fantastic little walk around prime lens- Subscribe to my YouTube Channel for full review (coming next week)As discussed in an earlier podcast we will see a new EF-S lens from Canon in November, the Canon EF-S 24mm f/2.8, It looks identical to the 40mm f/2.8 and I am psyched that Canon is making more of these tiny(and affordable) but excellent lenses. The 40mm is very sharp even wide open . The one change here is the 40mm is EF, compatible with full frame and this 24mm is EF-S, only compatible with crop sensor cameras like the T5i, SL1 and 70D.   24mm on a crop sensor is a wonderful walk around focal length. 24mm * 1.6 = 38mm.

• EF-S Mount Lens/APS-C Format
• 38mm (35mm Equivalent)
• One Aspherical Element
• Optimized Lens Coatings
• STM AF Motor Supports Movie Servo AF
• Micro-Stepping Drive Aperture Mechanism
• Full-Time Manual Focus Override
• Rounded 7-Blade Diaphragm
• Slim Design Measures Less Than 1"-Thick
• shortest shooting distance is 0.16 M (40mm is .3 M)
• maximum magnification is 0.27X
• 22.8 mm thickness Weight 125g (40mm is 22.8 and weighs 130g)

Are you interested?  It needs a nickname. Preorder from B&H Photo Video or Adorama or Amazon $149.00

More Pre-Photokina Announcements - Nikon 20mm, Sony 28-135, Sigma 150-600, Tamron 15-30

As Photokina nears we are getting a pile of announcements- some shipping soon, some just developments. 

Nikon 20mm f/1.8G ED

• F Mount Lens/FX Format
• Maximum Aperture: f/1.8
• Aspherical and ED Elements
• Nano Crystal Coating
• Internal Focus, Silent Wave Motor
• Soft Pouch, Lens Hood Included

The AF-S NIKKOR 20mm f/1.8G ED from Nikon is a wide-angle lens that is compatible with both full frame FX and DX crop sensor cameras. The fast f/1.8 maximum aperture allows a shallow depth of field for selective focus use, as well as shooting in low-light situations.The lens provides a 94° angle of view (30mm, 70° equivalent on DX-format cameras), and has a minimum focus distance of 7.8", allowing you to get close to your subject while isolating it from the background.Aspherical and Extra-low Dispersion elements with Nano Crystal Coating reduce sagittal flare and chromatic aberration, producing sharp images throughout the frame. A Silent Wave Motor provides quick, near-silent autofocusing. A soft pouch and lens hood are included.Nikkor 20mm f/1.8G will be available September 25- Preorder from Amazon | B&H | Adorama 

Nikon SB-500 AF Speedlight

Featuring an LED video light and a compact design, the SB-500 AF Speedlight from Nikon provides users with a portable unit compatible with Nikon's i-TTL metering. The flash has a good power rating with a guide number of 79' at ISO 100, and offers coverage for a 24mm lens with full frame cameras. Also, the 100 lux LED light has three output levels- quarter, half or full power- which is beneficial for both video and close up still photography.Versatility is important in this unit with the ability to tilt upward 90° and rotate left and right 180° for excellent bounce and swivel capabilities. The flash will also function wirelessly as either a commander unit or a remote slave for full compatibility with cameras, other flash units, and wireless flash controllers in Nikon's Creative Lighting System. The SB-500 will also transmit LED and flash color information to the camera for setting an optimal white balance and runs on 2 AA batteries, which provide a recycle time of 3.5-30 seconds. Included with the camera are a soft case and stand.

• Offers test firing, the ability to monitor pre-flashes, and an LED modeling flash function
• Flash compensation is available through camera settings
• Head tilts up 90° with click-stops at 0°, 60°, 75°, and 90°
• Head rotates horizontally 180° to the left and right with click-stops at 0°, 30°, 60°, 75°, 90°, 120°, 150°, and 180°
• Four wireless channels are available in Commander mode while only 1 is available in Remote mode
• Two wireless groups, A and B, are available
• Flash-ready indicator lights up when fully recycled or flashes slowly as a warning
• Receives about 100 flashes from a pair of Alkaline batteries and about 140 from Ni-MH
• A thermal cut-out function protects the flash
• Firmware can be updated

Nikon SB-500 will be available September 25- Preorder from Amazon | B&H | Adorama 

Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 lenses - Yes TWO! And I am not talking about one for Canon and one for Nikon

Sigma announced two new telephoto zooms offering 150-600mm f/5-6.3 with full-frame compatibility.  The share dust and weather proofing, SIgma's Optical Stabilizer (OS), Sigma's fast AF motors (HSM) and offer the excellent build quality that Sigma has used on many of their new lenses. both are also compatible with the Sigma USB Dock for lens adjustments and firmware updates. So why two different lenses that offer the same range? Two versions - Sports prioritizes optical performance and the Contemporary version prioritizes portability.  Designed to offer a higher level of optical precision and contains 24 elements in 16 groups, with two FLD and three SLD elements to control aberrations and distortions. It has a minimum aperture of f/22, minimum focusing distance of 8.5', and maximum magnification ratio of 1:5. The lens measures 4.8 x 11.4", and weighs 6.3 lb. Sigma is targeting photographers who place the utmost value on performance over weight, along with refined handling capabilities. The lens will be available in Canon EF, Nikon F, and Sigma SA mounts.This Contemporary version contains 20 elements in 14 groups, with one FLD element and three SLD elements. It has a minimum aperture of f/22, minimum focus distance of 9.2', and maximum magnification ratio of 1:5 and shaves some dimensions off the Sports version to measure 4.1 x 10.2". Sigma has not determined the final weight yet, but it is safe to say it will be lighter than the Sports version, thanks to it is smaller dimensions and fewer optical elements. It, too, will be available in Canon EF, Nikon F, Sigma SA, and Sony A mounts.

A new All-in-one (AIO) from Sigma 18-300

This APS-C-only, all-in-one zoom lens features a 27-450mm equivalent focal-length range and is targeted at photographers who want to travel as lightly as possible and don’t want to carry around multiple lenses. The lens’s design utilizes four FLD elements and one SLD element to help minimize chromatic aberration while maintaining consistent sharpness and clarity. Sigma has also incorporated a new Optical Stabilizer system, which should help with handheld shooting in difficult lighting, and a Hyper Sonic Motor for fast and quiet autofocus.  I wonder how it will compare to the Tamron 16-300 I reviewed earlier this year.  No word on pricing or release date. 

Tamron Announces Development of Full Frame 15-30mm f/2.8 VC

press release

September 12, 2014, Saitama, Japan. – Tamron Co., Ltd. (President & CEO: Morio Ono), a leading manufacturer of precision optics, announces development of a new ultra-wideangle zoom lens for full-frame DSLR cameras with a fast F/2.8 aperture and VC (Vibration Compensation), the world’s first in its category. The price and launch date are to be determined. The lens will be showcased at the Tamron booth at Photokina 2014, September 16- 21, 2014 in Cologne, Germany (Photokina Booth Number:Hall 4.2 D10 – E19).Since 2012, Tamron has been expanding its lineup of interchangeable lenses for 35mm full-frame DSLR cameras. SP 24-70mm F/2.8 was the first in the series, being integrated with VC, followed by the 70-200mm F/2.8, 90mm F/2.8 Macro, and 150-600mm F/5-6.3. The array of those new lenses have been highly acclaimed among the photo enthusiasts and working pros around the globe. To address the needs for more towards the wider angular field, Tamron spearheaded the development of SP 15-30mm F/2.8 Di VC USD, a fast ultra-wideangle zoom lens with the image stabilization feature, setting itself apart from the rest of zooms in this category.

Interesting highlights here - image stabilization (VC), fast (f/2.8) and full frame- Those that need to shoot wide while on the move or for video work should stay tuned  - this could be a very interesting lens.

5 Reasons you should own a prime lens

Canon 10-18 vs Tokina 11-16 vs Canon 10-22

Battle of the WIDES! Canon 10-18 vs Tokina 11-16 vs Canon 10-22

Canon 10-18 f/4.5-5.6 IS STM

Pros of the 10-18

• small, lightweight(weighs less than the kit lens) and cheap, $299!
• Great quality- seriously impressed with how well it handles chromatic aberration (better than the others) and is sharp (though the differences between all is very slight)
• Image stabilization for handholding seriously low shutter speeds
• STM - absolutely smooth and silent video and full time manual focus* - half press of shutter required for manually turning the ring to have any effect.  If live view is on focus ring is always active.
• Close focus abilities - almost macro like!

Cons of the 10-18

• Slow (small maximum aperture) f/4.5 at 10mm and as soon as you zoom you hit f/5 and then f/5.6 shortly before 18mm
• No distance indicator - very hard to manually focus in low light (bad for starry sky photos)

Tokia 11-16 f/2.8 DX II

Pros of the Tokina 11-16 f/2.8 DX II

• Constant f/2.8
• Built like a tank and includes a lens hood
• Distance indicator
• Will mount on a full frame camera!

Cons of the Tokina 11-16 f/2.8 DX II

• Chromatic aberration very noticeable at wide apertures.
• Vingetting also present at wide apertures - also present in other lenses but not quite to the same degree gone by f/5.6
• I am not a fan of the big ring pull switch for AF/MF.
• 77mm filter size - getting expensive

Canon 10-22 USM f/3.5-4.5

Pros of the Canon 10-22 USM

• Big range for wide angle lens.
• USM with full time manual focus
• Distance indicator
• Good build quality

Cons of the Canon 10-22 USM

• What does it offer that the Canon and Tokina doesn’t?

Sigma 8-16 f/4.5-5.6 HSM (not reviewed in this video)

Pros

• Extremely wide with 8mm
• HSM for smooth and fast focus

Cons

• Expensive
• No filters - lens bulges like fisheye

March 2014 Canon Lens Rebates

Canon has a month long rebate program for many of their high end lens.  There are some solid deals to be had!  Check out the spreadsheet below- green indicates a great buy and we are not likely to see prices that low on some of these lenses till the 2014 holiday season. Click to view the Full Spreadsheet of Deals or scroll around the embedded version below.

Recommended Lenses for the Canon 70D and other Canon DSLRS

Recommended lenses for Canon 70D, T5i(700d) and other Rebels.

I see two groups of people watching this video - those that haven’t bought a camera yet and are wondering if they should buy the camera with a kit lens(18-55 STM or the 18-135 STM) or buy body only and purchase a “better” lens separately and those that have the 70D or other Canon DSLRs and are wondering what they should add to their collection or upgrade to.

To the first group -maybe you heard from a friend or read on the internet that the kits lenses are bad. At times in DSLR history that has been true but the 18-55 IS STM and the 18-135 IS STM lenses sold with the 70D and current rebel models are actually quite good and their value when bought with the camera is excellent - if you are new to DSLRS the kit lenses ARE a good place to start and especially if you want to do easy video with either camera the STM lenses are necessary for that silent autofocus.  So if you haven’t bought the camera yet go ahead and buy with a kit lens - which one? 18-135 is a good travel and all around lens, nice for the family, capturing kids, vacations etc.  The 18-55 STM saves you some money and is a little easier to leave behind if you think you might want to upgrade sooner rather than later.  I do have another video that goes into the two choices in more detail 18-55 STM vs 18-135 STM.  Keep reading though as there is good info ahead.Those of you that already have the camera and are looking for the next lens - I am going to offer a recommendation or two in each of the following categories - Prime lenses (lenses that are fixed, don’t zoom), Walk-around lenses or general purpose lenses, telephoto and then your more specialty lenses like macro and wide angle.  I did keep budget in mind and picked lenses that I feel offer a great value.   I might throw out some terms or acronyms you are not familiar with -Use the following Lens Glossary if you need any more information on some of the acronyms and terms mentioned.Recommended Prime Lenses for Canon 70D (and other crop sensor cameras)

The question I hear from many new DSLRS owners is “how do I get those blurred background images?”  They are possible with the kit lenses but they are not always easy.  Using a lens with a wide maximum aperture is the easiest way to achieve those images AND cheapest way to get those images is by using a prime lens.   Canon’s 50 f/1.4 is excellent  - sharp, responsive focus and that amazing wide aperture.  An alternative is the 40mm f/2.8 - which is tiny,as equally sharp as the 50 f/1.4 but with a slightly wider focal length that if you are shooting indoors often you may find to be easier to work with and slightly more versatile.

• Canon EF 50 f/1.4 - Buy on Amazon
• Canon EF 40mm f/2.8 STM - Buy on Amazon

Walk-Around Lenses 

Like I said the kit lenses do a very good job so to get MUCH better quality you have to spend a good bit more - there are lenses that are marginally better but few are better enough that their value outstrips the kit lenses- But when you add features and quality in the mix two stand out. The Tamron 28-75 f/2.8 about $500 offers a good range and it offers a constant aperture of f/2.8 over that range, this lets in lots of light and allows good control of your depth of field. You can get creamy bokeh at f/2.8 in the 50-75 range. And most importantly this is a sharp lens for the money and is as sharp as lenses that cost 2x as much. The Tamron doesn’t have image stabilization and I think that is fine but if you want something similar WITH IS the Sigma 17-50 f/2.8 OS (sigmas version of IS) is about $570. Please know that IS only really helps with non moving subjects at those slower shutter speeds.

• Tamron 28-75 f/2.8 (EF Compatible) - Buy on Amazon
• Sigma 17-50 f/2.8 OS (EF-S Compatible)- Buy on Amazon

Telephoto Lenses

The recent refresh of the 55-250 STM has created another budget lens that offers a serious value - I have a separate review of the new 55-250 STM - short review-  the value is great, another STM so you have that silent AF for video and if you buy when you buy the camera and take advantage of the bundled savings you are getting a good zoom for less than $200! The next telephoto I’d recommend is a jump in price but the 70-200 f/4 is one of Canon’s most affordable L lenses - professional level lenses - very sharp, beautiful colors and contrast and versatile. 200mm at f/4 produces lovely bokeh.

• Canon EF-S 55-250 IS STM - Buy on Amazon
• Canon EF 70-200 f/4 L - Buy on Amazon

Macro

With budget in mind the Canon 60mm macro is very good with excellent macro possibilities.  This lens can also be used as a lovely portrait lens/head shots for tighter shots.

• Canon EF-S 60mm - Buy on Amazon

Wide-Angle

• Sigma 10-20mm (EF-S Compatible) - Buy on Amazon

There are more options out there - I have a 45 minute video where I share some thoughts on most of the current canon brand lenses - see the link below.  Do you still wonder what lens is best for you?  Give my Facebook page a like and let me know what type of photography you are into and how much you want to spend- I will respond with some suggestions.

Using those links to purchase the recommended lenses helps support my work and if you haven’t yet please subscribe that simple click click really does help this site grow and others to find my work.  Thank you! 

Nikon 18-140 vs 18-105- Lens Review, Samples and Discussion

When the D5200 came out and I started using it with the 18-55 kit I was stunned at how soft the images were. I thought for sure I had gotten a bad copy of the kit so I went down to the camera store and tried a different one and then I tried another and they were all equally bad. I popped on my favorite prime lens and the difference was huge- Grand Canyon huge. In the past I have not typically been a kit basher, there are those out there that say the kit lens is horrible, just buy the body and get a prime or other, better quality, lens and I often disagree with this approach, especially for people new to DSLRS. The kit lenses, while not the best lens around are certainly a great place to start: they offer some zoom, they are usually lightweight and don’t add much to the cost of the camera. BUT with these newer sensors, especially the very sharp sensors in the D5200 D5300, and D7100 the older kit lenses like the 18-55 just can’t perform well enough.After my experience I advised anyone buying the D5200 to skip the 18-55 and get the 18-105 or consider some alternatives(Recommended Lenses for Nikon DX Cameras). The 18-105 is a better lens, it out performs the 18-55 easily but especially now that Nikon has dropped their AA filter, a filter that actually blurs the image slightly to avoid moire, in the D7100 and now the D5300 - they really needed a good lens to include with these cameras. Is the 18-140 that lens? Before we answer that I thnk it is very telling that they don’t even bother to bundle the 18-55 with the D5300 now. It is 18-140 or nothing. That makes the entry level price a good bit higher(even with B&H discounted price) and I don’t think Nikon wanted to do that- they just didn’t have any other options at this time.So how does it compare to the 18-105?  The 18-140 is on the left and the 18-105 is on the right in all samples below. (Watch my video discussing the differences seen below)    More sample images with the 18-140 and the Nikon D5300Final Verdict - Bought with the D5300 or D7100 this lens compliments the sensor of those cameras nicely and provides a good compromise between quality and convenience.  However, it is still a kit lens and you might consider other options if you need to frequently shoot in lower light or want to create those images with the blurred background . See my list of recommended lenses for Nikon DX cameras.Buy the D5300 with 18-140 at B&H | Buy the 18-140 Buy from Amazon

D5300 and 18-140 lens- Sample Images & Thoughts

UPDATE: My Final Nikon D5300 Review is now published

I am editing "Very Early" out of the title. I have now had this camera for over a week- points below reflect my latest views

• This camera is FAST- AF Servo easily captures a fast dog. Gone is the hesitation I saw in the D5200
• The buffer is impressive, in fact the D7100 must be feeling a little inadequate- Using a SanDisk Extreme Card I can get 30 RAW shots in 10 seconds. The D7100 could only manage 23 with the same card!!! The D5200- 21 and to compare vs Canon- The Canon 70D gets 34. - Note with JPEGS the D7100 still has a faster FPS and can get in more shots but that doesn't matter in RAW as the D7100 very quickly fills the small buffer and slows down.
• Auto mode produces VERY good images and flash exposure is excellent. The greenish tint is still present under some fluorescent light sources.
• GPS is a mixed bag They offer a simple setup and a nice little track log option too. After using it for awhile I was very dissapointed at times when it took 10+ minutes to get a lock on location AND would lose location very quickly from one photo to another. Applying the A-GPS file provided on Nikon's website helps greatly and you risk draining your battery but you can turn GPS stand by to off which keeps a lock.  Overall I wish the system were a bit smarter, it seems you have a choice of missing GPS data when you let it sleep or draining the battery. I have a few examples where it didn't go to sleep and still missed marking photos with locations so more testing is needed here.
• Wifi is painless to setup video functions are disabled when WIFI is ON and you can't even change camera settings - Basically it is a glorified remote(streams live view) that can download photos too.
• 3.2" LCD Screen is gorgeous and looks good in bright sunlight - I wish it was touch sensitive, picking focusing points is a chore.
• High ISO files(photos and video) are clean, very clean - a few sample images below - more coming soon.
• Still quirky - shutter speed and aperture can change when you switch in and out of live view. In some modes you have control over aperture in live view - in others you don't. Manual movie mode needs to be on for exposure simulation to work and then you are limited to 1/30 of a second as your slowest shutter speed.

The 18-140 Lens is good - not an amazing improvement over the 18-105 but a nice balance of convenience and quality. Bought with a camera it offers good value. My Review of the Nikon 18-140 Lens.

• 18-140 lens is convenient and quality is much improved over previous kit lenses - will have side by side vs 18-105 in a few weeks
• 18-140 Focusing is similar to previous lenses on D5200/D7100, still not quiet or as smooth as an STM lens.

More info coming -

• • • Is the buffer really larger? UPDATE- YES!!
    • How much sharper is the new sensor without the AA filter? Still testing. . .
    • How does 60fps look at 1080p compared to the max of 30fps on CanonSmooth - it may go without saying but the 1080p is a vast improvement over the 1080i offered by the Nikon D5200.
    • Is Moiré an issue?Early tests suggest not.
    • Bit rate of the files?About 40MBits/s

What else do you want to know about the Nikon D5300?

Buy the Nikon D5300 with 18-140 lens from B&H  - they have a $300 off deal that gets you the D5300 and the 18-140 for $1096

Your D5300 Questions from around the net- mostly My Instagram and Facebook

Q: How does it compare to the D5200?A: In terms of image quality they are VERY similar. I see in some images slightly sharper results, likely from the removal of the AA filter. At mid and low level ISOs differences are difficult to spot in many photos, higher ISOs the D5300 produces slightly better images.  (at this time I haven't taken any carefully controlled photos yet - My opinion may change) - I do notice the camera being a bit more responsive with a deeper buffer/more raw shots in a burst and of course it now offers built in WiFi and GPS.  Is it worth the upgrade over the D5200?  Only if you really want that built in WiFi and GPS.Q: Is it worth it to buy over the 700D/T5i (D5300 vs T5i(700D))?A: Depends - I still really like the all around performance of the Canon and as a learning tool the exposure simulation in live view on the T5i is fantastic but the D5300 produces better images and is a very feature rich camera with a good external control setup - nicely placed buttons. But without a touchscreen diving into the menu is a chore and picking a focus point on the D5300, after using the T5i and the 70D feels ridiculously slow.   Nikon still doesn't offer a silent lens for video and focusing isn't as smooth as it is on the T5i with an STM lens on.Q: How does it compare to the Canon 70D (70D vs D5300)A: This comparison isn't as fair as the D5300 vs T5i/700D. Despite the prices being close the D5300 is more entry level and the 70D is more professional level.  That said early tests do seem to show the D5300 having better image quality and of course GPS built in.    The 70D beats it on everything else - focusing system/speed, incredible live view/video focusing. Burst rate and buffer. Battery life, more robust WiFi with options to connect to a computer or hotspot (D5300 is limited to a phone or tablet running the Nikon wireless app)Q: How does it compare to the CanonD7100 (D7100 vs D5300)A: Similar to the vs the Canon 70D question - these cameras are in a separate classes except for image quality - so again image quality differences between these two seem very slight - the D5300 may squeak out a win in some photos but the D7100 offers performance! Dual card slots, serious focusing engine better battery life and more robust body.  If you are just looking for the best image quality D5300 is fine but if you need performance too the D7100 would be my pick.Q: I have heard that the D5300 GPS is not very good, can you elaborate?A: When I first glanced at the GPS section in the menu I was excited - not only could you tag photos but you could also record a track log in .log format which easily converts to a variety of formats that lets you see your path on a map.  And you had some control over the length of time between log points and it generally seemed like a robust system. You even have the ability to download AGPS data and use that to help the camera get a lock http://nikonimglib.com/agps2/index.html.en. I have since found that the camera's GPS can be very slow to get a location signal and quick to lose the signal, even when in clear view of the sky and even when it had a lock a few minutes earlier. At this moment it basically seems like Nikon used the weakest GPS chips on earth and I am disappointed.  I will try later with the AGPS data to see how much that helps. A few sample photos - mostly taken on auto mode.

Buy the Nikon D5300 with 18-140 lens from B&H  - they have a $300 off deal that gets you the D5300 and the 18-140 for $1096

Canon Lenses Reviewed (Briefly)

Canon recently announced new rebates that cover a number of lenses - some are instant rebate, some are the yucky mail in but both save you money.  I took 42 minutes to run down the lits of them at B&H letting you know what I thought of almost every lens.  The video has now been watched over 1200 times but I thought it would be really nice to give you all a way to find and jump to the lenses you are interested in hearing about.  So below is the complete table of contents for the video.Buying one of these lenses? Start at B&H or AmazonINTRO - http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=42s50mm f/1.8 http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=1m55s50mm f/1.4 http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=5m43s24-70 f/2.8L II http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=6m52s70-200 f/2.8L IS II USM http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=9m42s85 f/1.8 http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=10m57sEF 16-35 f/2.8 II USM http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=12mMention of Sigma 18-35 f/1.8 http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=13m05s40mm f/2.8 http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=13m50s100mm f/2.8 L Macro IS http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=15m55sWhat does EF-S mean http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=17m47sEf-S 10-22mm f/2.5-4.5 USM http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=18m00s50 f/1.2L USM Lens http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=18m59sEF 17-40 f/4L USM lens http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=19m38s24-105 f/4L USM http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=20m19sEF-S 17-55 f/2.8 IS USM http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=21m42sEF 35mm f/2.8  IS USM http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=22m47sEF 100-400 f/4.5-5.6L IS USM http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=23m43sEf 35 f/1.4L USM http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=24m15sEF 70-200 f/2.8L USM http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=25m22sEF 70-200 f/4L IS USM http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=25m53sEF 135 f/2 L USM Lens http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=26m47sEF 100 f/2.8 USM Macro http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=27m40sEF-M 22mm f/2 STM Lens http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=29m15sEF 85 f/1.2L II USM http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=29m31sEF 50 f/2.5 Compact Macro http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=32m05sEF 70-200 F/4L USM Lens: http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=32m44sEF-M 18-55 f/3.4- 5.6 IS STM (M Mount): http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=33m21sEF 24mm F1.4L II USM Lens: http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=33m28sEF-S 60mm f/.8  Macro USM Lens: http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=34m1sWhich Macro should I buy EF-S 60mm vs EF-S 100mm: http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=34m26sEF 400mm f/5.6L USM: http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=34m50sEF 70-300 f/4-5.6L IS USM Lens: http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=35m2sEF 8-15mm f/4L Fisheye USM Ultra-Wide Zoom Lens: http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=35m30sEF-S 15-85mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM: http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=36m2sEF 24mm f/2.8 IS USM Autofocus Lens: http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=36m36s EF 200mm f/2.8L II USM Lens: http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=36m57sEF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM Lens: http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=37m15sEF 20mm f/2.8 USM Autofocus Lens: http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=38m9sEF 100mm f/2.0 USM Autofocus Lens: http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=38m37sMP-E 65mm f/2.8 1-5x Manual Focus Lens: http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=38m52sEF 28mm f/2.8 IS USM Lens: http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=39m26sWide Tilt/Shift TS-E 17mm f/4L Manual Focus Lens: http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=39m45sEF 180mm f/3.5L Macro USM Lens: http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=40m2sTS-E 24mm f/3.5L II Tilt-Shift Manual Focus Lens: http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=40m20sEF 14mm f/2.8L II USM Autofocus Lens: http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=40m34sFinal Thoughts:  http://youtu.be/OeiIEPlAFb8?t=41m01s

Picking the best lens for your DSLR

In this video I offer some advice for determining the value of a lens and help you pick the best lens for your DSLR

Canon 70D, T4i, T5i Portrait Tips with Kit Lens(18-135 STM)

T4i/T5i Tips and Tricks Portrait how to get background blur with kit lensQuick Portrait tips with the T4i/T5i (applicable to all cameras)

Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM

Cannon announced several products yesterday- the T5i (700D), the SL1 (100D), the 18-55 STM and the SX280.  The 18-55 STM is arguably the most exciting of the bunch.  The previous 18-55 EF-S IS II lens, commonly refered to as the kit lens was sold with the T4i, T3i and earlier Rebels.  It is not a bad lens but certainly not exciting. (What makes a lens exciting- Video Coming Soon)  The new, STM version of this lens looks much improved in image quality and of course offers the silent AF during video.*Note  - Do not confuse the 18-55 EF-S STM lens with the 18-55 EF-M STM lens currently available on Amazon, that lens only mounts on the EOS-M camera, it will NOT work/mount on the Rebels like the T4i and T5i. Differences between the 18-55 EF-S (non-STM) and the NEW 18-55 STM

• STM version has 7 rounded aperture blades (smoother background blur/bokeh) non-STM has 6 blades
• STM offers Full Time Manual Focus - likely similar to the 18-135 STM trick
• Improved sharpness, especially in corners and better contrast with updated lens coatings
• Silent Autofocus - we will have to wait and see if it is truly silent like the 18-135 STM or only kinda quiet like the 40mm STM

*The usefulness of the full time Auto Focus depends on your needs and use scenarios.  Capturing your children and informal family events it works well enough and can be handy for a more camcorder like experience.  For anything that needs to look a bit more professional I really don't recommend that you rely on auto focus, there is just too great a chance that the camera will decide to focus on something other than your subject or needlessly refocus even if your subject hasn't moved.  This refocusing during the video is distracting and not professional.  Manual focus or basically tuning the auto focus off after getting initial focus is fine for many situations.  I talk a bit more about this in How I Shoot My VideosThe 18-55 EF-S STM Lens will be available April 30th  - Preorder for $249 from AmazonShould you buy?  If you are a parent and you want a decent lens that can double duty for good stills and silent video it is something to consider.  If you want to grow as a photographer your money is likely saved for other lens options.   Not sure if this lens is right for you? leave me a message here or on facebook @ https://www.facebook.com/Digital.Photo.RecommendationsI'd be happy to share my opinion. Please remember the more information you can give me about you and your photography skills, hopes and dreams, the more accurate a recommendation I can provide. 

50 f/1.4 vs 40 f/2.8

This is a brief post to help folks decide which of the following prime lenses is right for them. There are plenty of other prime lenses to choose from but these three are all excellent values.     Why should I own a prime? 

50mm f/1.4 vs 40mm f/2.8 STM vs 50 f/1.8

The 50 f/1.4 offers a wider maximum aperture, letting in more light, slightly sharper at f/2.8 than the 40mm at f/2.8 and offers full time manual focus.  Really lovely focal length for portraits, especially on a crop sensor camera like a T4i/T5i. Very wide maximum aperture.The 40mm f/2.8 STM - tiny, makes the DSLR much more portable, quiet but not silent auto focus during video with smoother movement(most useful if you record audio with an external mic), Cheaper and not really noticeably less sharp at f/2.8. Above f/2.8 sharpness is on par with 50 f/1.4. Slightly wider focal length makes the lens a little more versatile. Wide maximum aperture.Best Prices on Amazon Buy the Canon 50 f/1.4 | Buy the 40  f/2.8 STMBuy the 50 f/1.8 (cheapest option) if budget is concern or you think you will only occasionally use this lens.One additional point - prime lenses almost always have excellent resale value- being sold for just a few dollars less than the purchase price years later- if you have taken good care of the lens. Quick illustration of the differences in bokeh between f/2.8 and f/1.4 using the 40mm f/2.8 and the 50mm f/1.4

Canon 24-70 f/4 IS vs 24-70 f/2.8 vs 24-105 f/4 IS

My Video Review of the Canon 24-70 f/4 IS vs 24-70 f/2.8 vs 24-105 f/4 ISPart IPart IICURRENT CANON REBATES AND SAVINGS UPDATE -Since posting this information I have tested and reviewed the Sigma 24-105 f/4. Watch my review of the Sigma 24-105. It is significantly sharper than the Canon 24-105. Early Thoughts - the new 24-70 f/4 is VERY nice - sharp, the IS works very well and I would have taken it over the 24-70 f/2.8 on my vacation travels without a second thought - it is lighter, smaller and offers an excellent macro feature. My next question is would I prefer it at a wedding over the f/2.8?  A stop of light is hard to give up but if this lens had been available when I bought I think I would have picked it and been able to sleep a bit better at night saving a $1000 dollars.  Sharpness, color, contrast and chromatic aberration control all seem on par with the more expensive f/2.8 - so it really comes down to that stop of light.  Oh and the IS. I think the IS is excellent for general photography and of course travel, it is not as helpful on the wedding day dance floor.  And another OH - the Macro isn't going to be the Canon 100mm f/2.8, my go to standard for all Macro lenses but it certainly comes close, shockingly close for someone that just likes to dable in macro now and then. . .   I also thought I would see more bokeh difference shooting at f/4 vs f/2.8 and really see much less than I expected.  Checking the charts it makes sense - the differences in depth of field between the two at normal shooting differences is slight.All three lenses are excellent and they should be when we are talking about the cheapest(24-105 f/4 IS USM) being almost a grand.The Canon 24-70 f/2.8 Mark II is currently selling for $2200 (Buy from Amazon). I have shot several thousand wedding images with this lens over the last three months and it is a fantastic lens. Sharp wide open though I did have to slightly adjust focus.  Color rendition is gorgeous, contrast is top notch - it is really easy to run out of superlatives when describing this lens - Downside are price, no IS, it is a hefty piece of glass with a huge 82mm filter size and it is only so-so at close focusing.   I recently took it on  vacation and loved the images but felt I would have been happy with a smaller lens and or a lens with a bit more range.  Before I bought Canon's 24-70 I tried the Tamron 24-70 f/2.8 with VC (Buy from Amazon).  It required serious micro AF adjustments and I repeatedly got lens communication errors, something I have never seen with the Canon.  I know there are plenty of photographers happy with the Tamron lens and there are plenty of sharp copies out there.  For almost $1000 less you get f/2.8 and IS - you just are taking a bit more of a gamble, in my opinion. Some Tech Specs - 28.4 Ounces with 1 Super UD lens element and 2 UD lens elements and 9 bladed aperture.The new Canon 24-70 f/4 IS sells for about the same (Buy from Amazon)  It is a bit lighter, has a suprisingly great macro mode, very good Hyrbid IS and a nifty pinch cap(Bout Canon) this might seem silly but it makes removal of the lens cap MUCH easier when the lens hood is on and facing out.  You do lose one stop of light going from f/2.8 to f/4.   Filter size is a more wallet friendly 77mm.    Weighs 21 ounces - 2 aspheric and 2 UD elements and 9 bladed rounded aperture.The  24-105 f/4 IS(Buy from Amazon) has been around for sometime, it has been a while since I used it, last shot a wedding using it, great lens and an excellent value for an L lens, can be found for $860. filter size is also 77mm.  Weighs 23.6 ounces with 1 UD lens element and 8 bladed aperture. 

New Lenses from Canon - 24-70 f/4L IS and 35 f/2 IS

Canon just announced a 24-70 f/4 L IS lens and an updated 35 f/2 ISBoth are available for Pre-orderCanon 24-70 f/4 L IS - $1499

• Maximum Aperture: f/4.0
• Hybrid Image Stabilization (IS)
• Dual UD & Super UD Lens Elements
• Dual Aspherical Lens Elements
• Ring-Type Ultra Sonic Motor (USM)
• Minimum Focusing Distance: 1.25'
• Macro Mode With 0.7x Magnification
• Weather Resistant to Dust & Moisture
• Fluorine Coatings Reduce Fingerprints
• Zoom Lock Lever

The EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM is the latest addition to Canon’s elite L-series, and expands the range of standard zoom EF lenses available for both professional and amateur photographers. Ideal for reportage and wedding photography, it combines an essential everyday focal range with a premium quality L-series construction, delivering consistently sharp, professional-quality stills in a range of different situations. A new macro function also optimises the placement of lens groups during macro photography, allowing shooting at a maximum magnification of 0.7x – reducing the need for photographers to carry a dedicated macro lens.Its first-class optical system includes two aspherical elements alongside two Ultra-low Dispersion (UD) lenses, each with optimised Super Spectra Coatings to minimise chromatic aberration, colour blurring and flare. A constant f/4 aperture throughout the zoom range provides photographers with exceptional creative control, allowing blurring of the background of a scene at all focal lengths. A nine-blade circular iris also assists photographers in making their subjects stand out, delivering beautiful out of focus highlights (bokeh) in the background blur to add atmosphere to a shot.The EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM also features a newly designed IS system, delivering blur-free images throughout the zoom range. Canon’s advanced optical IS offers a 4-stop light advantage, while Hybrid IS effectively compensates for angular and shift shake during macro shooting for stable close ups.Superfast AF performance is provided by a small, ring-type Ultrasonic Motor (USM). Working in combination with a high-performance CPU and advanced AF algorithms, USM technology enables accurate, silent and ultra-responsive autofocusing. Full-time manual focusing also ensures adjustments can be made even when AF is engaged.The EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM features a high grade, usability-focused design – both inside and out. The exterior features a high quality leather-texture coating, a revised shape ensures ease-of-use, and the focusing and zoom rings have been designed for optimal operation. Additionally, a dust and drip-proof construction is resistant to dust and moisture, a lock function protects lenses from knocks when travelling, while fluorine coating minimises the amount of dust, dirt and fingerprints that adhere to the front and rear lenses – helping to maintain superior image quality and reduce the need for cleaning.  Canon 35 f/2 L IS - $849 The new EF 35mm f/2 IS USM is designed to offer outstanding flexibility – allowing photographers to capture an even broader range of scenes and subjects in wide-angle. The lens is Canon’s first-ever 35mm prime to feature optical Image Stabilizer technology, which combines with high quality optics to offer outstanding performance from a lightweight, compact body. The 35mm focal length also provides the ability to capture everything from close-up portraits to wide-angle landscapes, making it an ideal companion for travel or general reportage photography.Its advanced specification offers photographers great flexibility to shoot a wider-range of scenes and subjects. A bright, fixed f/2 aperture also allows photographers to employ a shallow depth of field, and optical IS offers users a 4-stop light advantage, allowing the capture of blur-free images in low light conditions when shooting handheld. Intelligent detection of panning motion is also supported, with Panning IS mode automatically engaged to enable photographers to capture movement with greater accuracy.Designed to deliver exceptional image quality, the EF 35mm f/2 IS USM features an aspherical glass-moulded (GMo) element positioned at the rear of the optical path to correct aberration for the entire optical system. Additionally, each individual element features optimised Super Spectra coatings to reduce ghosting and flare – ensuring excellent colour balance with minimal need for post processing. A combination of a ring-type USM and high performance CPU also provides rapid AF performance, with full-time manual focus also available for users who want to retain maximum control.I will have more information soonTest