STM technology ensures that the EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM provides high-performance autofocus (AF) when capturing stills and smooth, near-silent AF in movies with compatible cameras. Offering fluid continuous focus tracking when shooting movies of moving subjects, STM also provides clean and natural focus transitions when the focus shifts from one subject to another. Audio on movie footage can be captured without the intrusion or distraction of focusing noise from the lens, thanks to the near-silent STM mechanism.
The EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM incorporates a new design, featuring Canon’s optical Image Stabilizer (IS) technology. The 3.5-stop advantage over non-IS models helps to reduce the effects of camera shake – which are more exaggerated when shooting handheld with a telephoto zoom lens – making it easier for photographers to capture crisp and striking images in all conditions.
The new optical design of the lens includes 15 elements arranged in 12 groups, with an improved focusing distance of just 0.85m throughout its zoom range. An Electro Magnetic Diaphragm (EMD) with a circular aperture gives photographers fine control over aperture and smooth, blurred backgrounds, while an Ultra-low Dispersion (UD) lens tackles chromatic aberration, ensuring images are sharp and clear. Canon’s optimised Super Spectra Coating (SSC) also minimises internal reflections, as well as ghosting and flare. The redesigned lens now incorporates a non-rotating front element, ensuring a consistent effect when a filter is attached to the front of the lens.
Weighing just 375g the EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS is compact and lightweight – making it easy to carry around whilst on holiday or at family events.
Pricing and availability
The Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM will be available in the UK and Ireland from late September 2013 with an SRP of £349.99 / €419.99