Canon Hybrid IS makes debut with new EF 100mm f2.8 Macro L-IS-USM lens

The recently dev-noticed Hybrid IS system for Canon lenses is making its commercial debut as promised. The flag bearer for this new technology is the brand new EF 100mm f2.8 Macro L-IS-USM lens.

This is a 35mmFF lens, so you can use it on all Canon DSLRs, and of course film SLRs. As you can tell from all the codes in its name, it is a four-figure lens.

The new hybrid IS technology promises compensation from both angle and shift camera shake, with up to four shutter speed steps. The Canon press release frames this new hybrid IS technology as a macro-priority feature. The hybridization comes with the addition of an acceleration sensor that contributes data to a new Canon algorithm that takes it all into consideration, and after brief deliberations (no cloture votes), it makes the necessary adjustments.

Considering the promise and premise of this new lens and hybrid IS, this is a lens that should generate a considerable amount of curiosity-interest among macro photographers of all camera-brand persuasions. And we won't have to wait for long to learn more about it, as it is scheduled to be released in late September 2009.

The lens is available for pre-order at $1050 from:
+ Amazon
+ Adorama
+ Calumet - search for product CA40529