Canon has launched a new lens with built-in flash for the EOS M - the company's first mirrorless interchangeable-lens camera.
On May 11, Canon announced the EF-M 28mm f/3.5 Macro IS STM lens, the first macro lens in the company's EF-M lens series designed especially for the EOS M.
"The new lens features a pair of built-in miniature Macro Lite electronic flash units that illuminate close-up subjects as needed, helping to freeze movement, enhance color accuracy and provide a better sense of depth and dimension. Two curved flash units surround the front element of the lens, with the ability to illuminate both simultaneously, or one at a time," says Canon.
Users of the new lens will have the option of adjusting the brightness of the Macro Lites between "dim" and "bright" settings.
The built-in ring flash provides illumination for close-up subjects. The lens also lets users create right or left shadows using only one side of the flash. For close shots, the flash also eliminates the shadow of the lens.
The new EF-M lens also features Hybrid IS (Canon's optical image stabilization), which reduces camera shake, making handheld photography a more enjoyable experience. The stepping motor technology in the lens allows for a smooth focusing operation while taking videos. This feature enables users to capture videos in near-silence.
Canon introduced the EOS M camera series in 2012. The EOS M cameras are lightweight and easy to carry on outdoor trips.
"The biggest breakthrough of the EOS M lies in Canon's ability to contain an EOS System in a compact body, with full compatibility with new and existing EF and EF-S lenses (with adapter)," says Canon. "EOS M is by far the most accessible EOS camera providing the same level of photographic brilliance of a DSLR."
The launch of the latest lens shows Canon's focus on the EOS M camera. Hopefully, the company will launch more lenses designed for the camera, which eliminates the need for adaptors.
Canon has revealed that the new EF-M 28mm f/3.5 Macro IS STM will be available from authorized retailers in June this year at a price tag of $299.99.
Canon has also announced the Speedlite 600EX II-RT flash, which is compatible with the majority of EOS cameras. When using standard AA batteries, it enhances continuous flash rate by about 1.1 to 1.5 times and by up to two times when using the latest Compact Battery Pack CP-E4N.
The Speedlite 600EX II-RT electronic flash will also be available in June at a price tag of $579.99.
Check out a short video of the latest Canon EOS M with the latest lens.
