Super-telephoto zoom with built-in extender now available

Canon has announced its unique EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM EXTENDER 1.4x telephoto zoom lens – that has an integrated focal length extender to take its zoom range up to 560mm.

Developed as part of the acclaimed L-series of Canon professional lenses the new zoom is a high-performance lens that features a built-in 1.4x extender, which can be accessed and turned on or off at the flick of a switch at the rear of the lens, and provides stunning image quality throughout the full zoom range.

The lens offers an unsurpassed combination of versatility, first-class optical performance and superb construction. High-quality images with high levels of resolution and contrast are possible through the use of advanced optical materials such as fluorite crystal. The new lens uses magnesium alloy for the main components to ensure it is lightweight (3.6kg), and it has a dustproof and waterproof construction that’s designed for extended usage in harsh conditions.

The lens’ optical elements feature Canon's SubWavelength Structure Coating (SWC), that's optimised to effectively reduce ghosting that can be caused by light bouncing back from a camera sensor. A water-repellent fluorine coating is also used on the surface of the front and rear elements of the lens – this coating repels dust and dirt for clearer shots and keeps the front element free of marks by ensuring that water droplets run off the lens quickly.


Enhanced IS technology
The zoom lens features Canon's latest Image Stabilizer system, offering outstanding image quality during handheld shooting and allowing users to shoot at speeds up to four times slower than normally required. IS Mode 2 features new algorithms to improve performance when panning, and the new IS Mode 3 is also included, assisting users when switching between subjects by activating the IS unit only during exposure.

The constant f/4 aperture of the lens allows photographers to achieve excellent image quality in low light and to capture clear, sharp shots of fast-moving subjects. The wide aperture also allows users to creatively isolate their subjects from the background, with a nine-blade circular iris that’s capable of creating beautiful background blur (bokeh) to instantly add atmosphere to an image.

Rapid, quiet autofocus (AF) is provided by a ring-type Ultrasonic Motor (USM). Photographers can also utilise full-time manual focusing functionality, which enables the fine-tuning of focus even when the AF system is activated, thus providing even greater control over image capture. Power Focus mode also assists users during video shooting, allowing photographers to smoothly adjust focus during filming by twisting the focus recall ring.

The unique zoom lens is an ideal addition for action, sports and wildlife photographers who require high optical performance and a flexible telephoto range. It will enable photographers to shoot a greater breadth of subjects using a single lens, delivering the best possible image quality at all focal lengths.