Canon EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM Autofocus Lens Imported
The Canon EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM Lens lens is a venerable wide-angle prime lens that provides sharpness and impressive performance at all settings. Its large maximum aperture of f/1.4 allows for superb low-light photographs, and its circular aperture and narrow depth of field provide pleasing background blur. It is the ideal tool for photojournalists, landscape and event photographers, and anyone who enjoys taking images from a wider perspective.
This version "II" improves greatly over its predecessor with the addition of two high-precision aspheric lenses, which correct aberration including curvature of field and distortion. Chromatic aberration common in wide-angle shooting is also reduced by the inclusion of two UD lenses, which ensure optimum image quality and corner-to-corner detail.
The EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM features Canon's near-silent Ultra Sonic Motor (USM), which provides super-fast auto-focusing with full-time manual override. The floating internal focus system also helps maintain high image quality throughout the focal range.
- SWC (Sub Wavelength Coating)
- The anti-reflective SWC (Sub Wavelength Coating) differs from conventional coatings by using a much finer structure, which minimizes ghosting and flaring across the lens surface, regardless of the angle with which light enters or exits.
- Ring-Type USM Motor
- Canon's very best autofocusing mechanisms are in place, permitting full-time manual focusing override without requiring a switchover from AF to MF mode.
- L-Series
- Canon's "L-Series" designation indicates that this lens meets their highest quality standards with excellent color reproduction and edge to edge sharpness.
Go To
| Performance | |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | 24 mm |
| Aperture |
Maximum: f/1.4 Minimum: f/22 |
| Camera Mount Type | Canon EF |
| Format Compatibility |
35mm Film / Full-Frame Digital Sensor Canon (APS-C) |
| Angle of View | 84° |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 9.84" (25 cm) |
| Magnification | 0.17x |
| Maximum Reproduction Ratio | 1:5.88 |
| Groups/Elements | 10/13 |
| Diaphragm Blades | 8 |
| Features | |
|---|---|
| Image Stabilization | No |
| Autofocus | Yes |
| Tripod Collar | No |
| Physical | |
|---|---|
| Filter Thread | 77 mm |
| Dimensions (DxL) | Approx. 3.3 x 3.4" (8.38 x 8.64 cm) |
| Weight | 1.43 lb (650 g) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 140 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
99%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Fast / accurate auto-focus (117)
- Strong construction (98)
- Durable (79)
- Consistent output (75)
- Nice bokeh (63)
Cons
- Heavy (29)
- Pricey / poor value (5)
- Blurry focus (3)
Best Uses
- Low light (102)
- Landscape/scenery (95)
- Night photography (78)
- Weddings (76)
- Video (40)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Pro photographer (56), Semi-pro photographer (33), Photo enthusiast (32), Casual photographer (6), Professional (4)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (101), Yes (4)
Most Liked Positive Review
Worth the wait ... both of them
I do a great deal of outdoor, available light photography and have wanted a fast 24 mm lens for over 25 years. When Canon announced the Mark II version last year, it was time...Read complete review
I do a great deal of outdoor, available light photography and have wanted a fast 24 mm lens for over 25 years. When Canon announced the Mark II version last year, it was time to ante up even though I believe they overpriced it by $200. I placed my order with a great deal of trepidation; could any lens live up to a quarter of a century of expectations?
The answer is, eventually, … “yes.”
Straight out of the box the lens was a disaster as it suffered from major league front focusing. A trip to a Canon Factory Service Center (It was out of my hands for 10 days) made it a whole new ball game. I mention this because it should have never passed Canon’s QC in the condition in which I received it. My gripe is not with B&H; it is with Canon.
Getting down to the nitty-gritty, this lens focuses so quietly that I thought it was broken. A few simple tests showed me that, yes it is focusing and if I listen real hard I might hear the USM. It is easily the quietest AF lens I have ever had the opportunity to use.
Using it wide open is tricky, as the depth of field is paper-thin at “close” distances. Never the less, when the photographer knows what he or she is doing, this lens, at f/1.4, produces images with startling clarity and focus … and it only gets better. Images taken with the lens stopped down even slightly are tack sharp with unbelievable contrast and brilliant color. I bet the new lens coatings Canon applies to the elements have something to do with this as well. Images show just a hint of vignetting, if you look for it, when used on a camera body equipped with an APS-C sensor.
The construction is typical “L” lens, built like a tank. The manual focus ring seems to glide rather than move and is very responsive. It feels “solid” and the balance on a 20D camera body is perfect.
Oh yes, the lens hood slips easily on and off, but is very secure when on.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Great lens but mine didn't work well
It's really hard to say how I'd rate this lens, as the copy that I got wouldn't focus correctly beyond about 9 inches - it'd always frontfocus beyond that. As a lens that I ...Read complete review
It's really hard to say how I'd rate this lens, as the copy that I got wouldn't focus correctly beyond about 9 inches - it'd always frontfocus beyond that. As a lens that I could use fine during manual focus (@f/1.4), though, it served its purpose, and pretty well, as a fast, wide weather-sealed prime. I'm not a huge fan of the bokeh, and much prefer the 50 L (my favorite Canon lens), but in terms of a wide prime (which I'm looking for) there's not much else that'll beat it.
Reviewed by 140 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-20
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Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
Comments about Canon EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM Autofocus Lens:
Used with a 7D for somewhat close-up interviews- wide lens let me get in close without awkward cropping.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
Cons
- Pricey but worth it
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM Autofocus Lens:
I use it for shooting portrait most.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Lightweight
- Nice Bokeh
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Video
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM Autofocus Lens:
I use this for landscape and everyday snap shots. It's got outstanding color.
Pros
- Durable
- Strong Construction
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
- Video
Comments about Canon EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM Autofocus Lens:
Shallow depth of field and excellent for low light
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM Autofocus Lens:
Great fast wide lens. I use it a lot at every wedding i shot.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Nice Bokeh
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
- Video
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM Autofocus Lens:
This is a beauty, which is to be expected with Canon's L series. The autofocus is fast and quiet (although I rarely use it), and images are decently sharp between f1.4 and 1.8 and very sharp at f1.8 and smaller. The driving force behind my decision to buy this lens after extensive research is the 1.4 aperture capability, which is so invaluable for someone who doesn't often use flash like myself.
I bought this lens along with a Canon 5D Mark II, and am still getting used to the weight of both the camera and lens, a step up from the less durable Rebel series. The lens is solidly constructed and balances nicely with my 5D.
As a pretty wide-angle lens, it serves its purpose fabulously. I actually have been using it as my all-purpose lenses; the only thing it's not good for are portraits and macro work, but that is to be expected of a 24mm. I can't wait to get my hands on the 50mm L lens, but I have to save up enough money first!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
Comments about Canon EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM Autofocus Lens:
This lens is more bulky and heavy compared to the 24mm first generation. So far, I haven't experienced any noticeable improvements from the previous model.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Nice Bokeh
- Strong Construction
- Weather sealed
Cons
- High price
Best Uses
- architectural
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM Autofocus Lens:
This lens does live up to L lens quality. It is really sharp out of the box with no micro adjustments needed.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM Autofocus Lens:
Very sharp and clear! Very light weight! Best prime lens ever!
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Nice Bokeh
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Night Photography
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM Autofocus Lens:
I've never work with it before, and it's just great!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM Autofocus Lens:
A definite buy.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
- Video
Comments about Canon EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM Autofocus Lens:
I'm completely satisfied with this lens. It's sharp at f/1.4 and extremely sharp when stopped down to f/1.8! This is one of the best L lenses I have.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Nice Bokeh
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Macro Photography
Comments about Canon EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM Autofocus Lens:
A lot of shoots require a wide angle lens in our business. This is a great addition to your collection of Primes. Not to mention being a premium USM II lens. This is one of the lenses you never part with. Period. Buy It!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
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Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Rugged
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
- Video
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM Autofocus Lens:
Really sharp wide open, where I use it 90% of the time. Interesting portraits with shallow DOF when used close to the subject. Excellent for interior, low light shots. Short focusing distance, I used it in some product shots as well for a different look. Finally, this is now the only lens I use for video on a crop sensor. I found out that 24mm is wide enough for me, and stopped using the 2.8 zoom after buying this lens – it really is that good.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Lightweight
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Night Photography
- Video
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM Autofocus Lens:
I think everything that should be said about this lens is ever said. It's a "must have" for canon DSLR users.
Use: wedding videography
To be perfect for video it could feature optical stabilization.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Durable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Rugged
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
- Video
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM Autofocus Lens:
I use it for Professional Videography. Very sharp and performs extremely well in low light. At 24mm, I can shoot hand held, get enough light into the camera, and not deal w/ shaky footage.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Night Photography
Comments about Canon EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM Autofocus Lens:
It's the best lens I have ever use.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Nice Bokeh
- Rugged
- Strong Construction
Cons
- Heavy
- Slow Focus
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
- Video
Comments about Canon EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM Autofocus Lens:
Picked this up to try it out. Instantly impressed by the shallow DOF and the center sharpness when wide open. Corners become tack sharp are you go to f2 and above, but do you really need corner sharpness when you are in the F1's.... Focusing is a little slow.
Great wide angle lens on a full frame!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM Autofocus Lens:
Great wide angle lens, super sharp and no distortion at the edges like other wide-angle lenses.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easily Interchangeable
- Fast / accurate auto-focus
- Rugged
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Photography
- Video
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM Autofocus Lens:
Excellent lens. I mainly shoot weddings and wouldn't be without it.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
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