Canon EF-S 10-22mm F3.5-4.5 USM

Canon EF

Review

The Canon EF-S 10-22mm F3.5-4.5 USM is a versatile ultra-wide-angle zoom lens designed specifically for Canon's APS-C format DSLRs. This lens opens up a world of creative possibilities, making it a favorite among landscape, architecture, and interior photographers. With its range that spans from 10mm to 22mm, it allows for impressive perspective control and the ability to capture expansive scenes.

One of the standout features of this lens is its USM (Ultra Sonic Motor) technology, which provides fast and silent autofocus. This is particularly beneficial for videographers and those who want to capture spontaneous moments without the distraction of noisy focusing mechanisms. The lens also incorporates a circular aperture design, which helps achieve beautiful background blur and pleasing bokeh effects when needed, despite being an ultra-wide zoom.

In terms of build quality, the EF-S 10-22mm feels sturdy and well-made. It has a comfortable grip and a smooth zoom mechanism that inspires confidence during use. The lens is also relatively lightweight, making it easy to carry for extended periods, which is a significant advantage for travel photographers.

However, like any lens, the Canon EF-S 10-22mm does have its shortcomings. One of the most notable is its maximum aperture range of f/3.5 to f/4.5, which is not particularly bright, especially at the longer end. Low-light shooting may require higher ISO settings or longer exposures to compensate for the relatively narrow aperture. Additionally, while the lens offers good sharpness, it can exhibit some distortion and vignetting at its widest settings, though these issues are generally manageable in post-processing.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent ultra-wide focal range (10mm to 22mm) for expansive scenes.
• Fast and silent autofocus due to USM technology.
• Good build quality with a comfortable grip.
• Lightweight and easy to carry, ideal for travel.
• Circular aperture design for attractive bokeh.

Cons

• Maximum aperture of f/3.5-4.5 may hinder low-light performance.
• Distortion and vignetting can be noticeable at wider angles, requiring correction.

Verdict

The Canon EF-S 10-22mm F3.5-4.5 USM is a fantastic lens for anyone looking to explore ultra-wide photography on an APS-C format camera. Its combination of build quality, versatility, and autofocusing performance make it a worthwhile investment. While it does have some minor drawbacks, particularly in low-light scenarios, the creative opportunities it provides far outweigh these limitations. Whether you’re a landscape photographer wanting to capture sweeping vistas or an architectural photographer needing to fit more into the frame, this lens is sure to deliver impressive results.