Canon News: New EOS STM Lenses Launched

In response to the growing use of SLRs for video capture, Canon have launched a pair of lenses with a new design - a STM (Stepping Motor) is used.  This allows for smoother, quieter operation, with compatible cameras.

Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM

• Versatile 18-135mm zoom range – perfect for travel.
• Smooth, quiet STM focusing when shooting movies on compatible cameras.
• Dynamic Image Stabilizer for smooth movie footage.
• Fast autofocus with full-time manual override.
• Minimum focusing distance of 0.39m.

 More info here.

Canon EF 40mm f/2.8 STM

• Portable pancake design
• Smooth, quiet STM focusing when shooting movies on compatible cameras
• Fast f/2.8 maximum aperture for low-light shooting
• Close focus to 0.3m
• Fast, quiet AF for pin-sharp results
• Great image quality right across the frame

More info here.

Nikon News: New AF-S DX Micro NIKKOR 40mm f/2.8G LENS

Nikon have launched a new addition to their Nikkor lenses, with a 40mm f/2.8 'micro' lens.  It promises to be great for macro work, with a 1:1 reproduction ratio, light weight and near-silent auto-focus.

Highlights:

• 40 mm DX-format macro lens (FX-format/35mm equivalent:60mm).
• Large maximum aperture of f/2.8.
• 1:1 reproduction ratio offers life-like close-ups.
• Closest focusing distance: 0.163 m.
• SWM (Silent Wave Motor) for accurate, whisper-quiet autofocus.
• Two focus modes: M/A (manual-priority autofocus), allows quick switching between Autofocus and Manual focus operation, and M (manual focus).
• Hood and soft lens case included.

More details here.