The Canon CN E 18- 80 lens has finally arrived

[Svein Rune Skilnand]

Canons long awaited CN E 18- 80 lens has finally arrived today. I think it is going to be a solid workhorse for many Cinema EOS users. I can already say that it is going to replace my trusty 17- 55 EFs lens.

Having worked with microfocus and clinking iris sounds for ages, it is a pleasure to note that the time finally has become ripe for super 35 optics with zoom and iris control. And with a nice price tag.

Finally, we have a functioning iris ring and a focus ring it is possible to come to grips with. Before the lens was mounted on my C300 with the DAF upgrade, I updated the firmware to the latest version of Canon's website. NB! There is a difference in firmware with and without DAF upgrade so be sure you choose the right one prior to updating your camera.

I never thought I was going to say that autofocus was a feature I was looking forward to use, but with super 35, it is not always easy to maintain focus a in run and gun situation. My preliminary tests in the office tonight shows that the lens and the camera really works really well with autofocus enabled. Maybe we can finally begin to see images from super 35 cameras in focus?

The little test I did shooting handheld shows it works surprisingly well. I have so far refrained from purchasing the power servo grip. The attached servomotor was very steady and comfortable to grip in itself, and it already has buttons for and zooming in and out, so I doubt that I am going to invest in such a grip at all.

Looking forward to a shoot this Saturday where I will put this lens through it`s paces.

Here is a link with some pictures of it attached to my C300:

SRS Media : Canon 18-80 er endelig kommet til SRS Media