Canon EF 24-105mm F3.5-5.6 IS STM

Canon EF

Review

The Canon EF 24-105mm F3.5-5.6 IS STM is a versatile lens that bridges the gap between standard zoom and telephoto, making it an excellent option for photographers who want a reliable all-rounder. This lens is particularly appealing for both amateur and semi-professional photographers who appreciate a good combination of range and image stabilization.

With a focal length range of 24-105mm, this lens covers wide-angle to short telephoto, making it suitable for a variety of shooting scenarios, from landscapes to portraits. The addition of Canon's Image Stabilization (IS) technology helps to reduce camera shake, especially in low-light situations, allowing for sharper images at slower shutter speeds. The STM (Stepping Motor) autofocus system is quiet and responsive, which is a significant advantage when shooting video as well as stills.

The lens construction includes 17 elements in 12 groups, which helps to produce clear, sharp images with pleasing color rendition. The bokeh, or out-of-focus areas, can be quite attractive at wider apertures, making it a decent option for portrait photography. Furthermore, the lens has a relatively compact and lightweight design, making it easy to carry around on various shoots.

However, while the lens has many positive attributes, there are some downsides to consider. The maximum aperture of F3.5-5.6 may not be fast enough for some photographers who regularly work in low-light conditions, as it won't provide the same depth of field control or low-light performance as lenses with larger maximum apertures. Additionally, the optical performance at the extreme ends of the zoom range may not be as sharp when compared to prime lenses or higher-end zooms.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Versatile focal range of 24-105mm covers various shooting scenarios.
• Effective Image Stabilization (IS) for low-light shooting.
• Quiet and responsive STM autofocus suitable for both stills and video.
• Lightweight and compact design for easy portability.
• Good color rendition and attractive bokeh quality.

Cons

• Maximum aperture of F3.5-5.6 may limit low-light performance.
• Sharpness can vary at the extreme ends of the zoom range.
• Not as robust as higher-end zoom options.

Verdict

The Canon EF 24-105mm F3.5-5.6 IS STM is a solid choice for those looking for a versatile and user-friendly lens. While it may not be the fastest or sharpest lens available, its combination of image stabilization, compact design, and decent overall performance make it a great option for casual photographers and videographers alike. If you're in the market for a reliable all-rounder that can handle a variety of conditions, this lens is certainly worth considering.