Lighting is always one of the big issues in macro photography. Extreme close ups of very small subjects usually mean you’ll end up getting in the way of your own lighting at some point, after all. The new Canon EF-M 28mm f/3.5 Macro lens solves the problem by integrating a ring-style light right in front of the lens, allowing it to directly illuminate any subject you’re shooting.
Created for Canon’s EOS M series of mirrorless cameras, the lens’ unique front lighting allows it to have a shorter focal length than traditional macro lenses. In fact, it measures just 1.8 inches and weighs 4.6 oz., making it easy to find a space for in your camera bag for taking along during shoots.
The Canon EF-M 28mm f/3.5 Macro has a tapered shape when extended, which helps it avoid creating shadows during close up photography. And when it does cast a shadow, you can use the two Macro Lite units (each one takes up a half-ring on either side of the lens) out front to add the necessary illumination, with a button on the edge of the lens allowing you to control them. According to Canon, you can use both lighting units for maximum illumination or simply use one to create a sense of depth and added dimension to details.
Aside from those, the lens has the ability to focus from infinity to life-size (1x) in normal shooting, macro shooting up to 1.2x magnification, and a Super Macro mode that lets you come up to within 3.7 inches of your subject. It also comes with Canon’s Hybrid image stabilization system to minimize blurring due to small movements.
Slated for release in June, the Canon EF-M 28mm f/3.5 Macro is priced at $299.99.