Canon U.S.A. today announced two new additions to the company's EF lens family, the new EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM and EF 35mm f/2 IS USM lenses. The EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM has macro shooting capabilities at the telephoto end and the EF 35mm f/2 IS USM adds Canon's proprietary Image Stabilization (IS) to this popular prime lens focal length.

Featuring dynamic L-series optical performance in a compact, design, the new EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM lens features a constant maximum aperture of f/4 throughout the entire zoom range with 15 lens elements in 12 groups including two aspherical and two UD lens elements and a 9-blade circular aperture diaphragm. The lens includes a macro feature at the telephoto end with a 0.2m/7.9-inch minimum focusing distance and Canon's Hybrid IS system (with up to four stops of stabilization). The macro feature can be engaged through a switch on the lens barrel. In addition, the lens features inner focusing and a ring-type Ultrasonic Motor (USM) for fast autofocus, and has full-time mechanical manual focus that's enabled even during AF operation. Compact at only 93mm in length, with dust and water resistance, the EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM lens has a fluorine coating on the front and rear elements for easy maintenance and cleaning.

The EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM lens is expected to be available in December for an approximate retail price of $1,499.00.

The successor to Canon's EF 35mm f/2, the EF 35mm f/2 IS USM lens is a compact and lightweight wide-angle prime lens. The optics and mechanical workings are designed to improve image quality in the lens's periphery and provide faster and quieter AF than its predecessor, as well as Optical IS and optional full-time manual focus, all in a durable lens body. It features a circular aperture diaphragm and lens coatings optimized for minimal ghosting and flare.

The EF 35mm f/2 IS USM lens is expected to be available in December for an approximate retail price of $849.99.