Canon has announced the launch of EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM. It is an addition to their prestigious L-series lineup. The EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM incorporates image stabilisation in a macro lens for the first time in the EOS lens range. It features the newly announced Hybrid IS system.

Their press release says" The new Hybrid IS system features up to 4-stop correction, compensating for the effects of camera shake, during normal shooting. Low friction ceramic balls support the moving elements, which allows for the amazingly smooth movement – needed when compensating for camera shake during macro shooting. Hybrid IS corrects shift movement – problematic when shooting up close -as well as angular movement providing photographers with the benefit of up to 2 stops at 1.0x magnification.

The EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM features ultra low dispersion (UD) lenses that correct colour aberration for high resolution, high contrast images while the addition of Super Spectra coatings effectively reduce ghosting and flare for superior quality images. A nine blade circular aperture makes subjects stand out amid beautiful background blur and a silent, high-speed ring type USM Autofocus motor quickly achieves focus. The lens also includes a three position focus limiter to tailor the focus system range to the desired subject".

The specifications are as follows:


Lens Focal Length & Maximum Aperture 100mm 1:2.8

Lens Construction 15 elements in 12 groups

Diagonal Angle of View 23.4°

Focus Adjustment Inner focusing system with USM. Full-time manual focus available.

Closest Focusing Distance 0.99 ft./0.3m (maximum close-up magnification: 1x)

Filter Size 67mm

Max. Diameter x Length, 3.1 x 4.8 in./77.7 x 123mm

Weight 625 gm

I think this lens can act as a macro as well as a general purpose lens. Lets see when I can get one in hand.

Cheers,
Sabyasachi