Typically, lenses of this focal length just have an AF/MF switch, but Canon’s goes one extra step. On the side of the lens is where you’ll find the controls. Previously, the company’s lenses had a smooth exterior–but the textured feel is much nicer. In the image above, you’ll also be able to notice the new texture on Canon’s newest 35mm lens offering. While Canon has improved on their depth of field scales, they’re still not perfect nor anywhere as useful as many of their competitors’ offerings. Behind the ring you’ll find a depth of field scale. Here you’ll find the focusing ring near the front–and for users more accustomed to Canon’s higher end lenses, you’ll think that this ring is on a diet. The top of the lens is characterized by some semi-serious business. Additionally, Canon incorporates a brand new type of lens cap that requires the user to pinch the center–just like Tamron and Sigma. While there isn’t very much to it, there are some new changes to their overall lens design philosophy that are evident with the 35mm f2 IS.įirst off the front element and front filter thread don’t move while focusing. The Canon 35mm F2 IS is a compact lens that is a little bit on the chubby side of the design world. Specs taken from the B&H Photo Video listing of the product Performance Many images were edited using VSCO Film Pack 3: which features Instant Film renderings.

– A tad more pricey than we’d like it to be Gear Usedįor this review we tested the Canon 35mm f2 IS with the Canon 5D Mk II, 580 EX II, Rogue Flash Bender, 430 EX II, and the Phottix Odin triggers. – Perhaps the absolute best lens for every wedding photographer on a budget Cons – Excellent build quality, it feels better than the L version It’s been a mainstay lens on the 5D Mk II since I’ve received our loaner unit, and it also accompanied me to a wedding that I recently shot–and there it became the lens I often stuck to. We compared the 35mm f2 IS to Canon’s old 35mm f1.4 and Sigma’s 35mm f1.4, and it came out in second place amongst our readers. We thought about it: there are video users, there are people who like to shoot stopped down handheld, and there are people who love to do long exposures handheld. When Canon released their 35mm f2 IS lens, we questioned why the heck anyone would need IS for such a wide focal length.