The Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS II improves on its predecessor with a closer minimum focusing distance, reduced flare and ghosting, an upgraded Image Stabilization system, and a 9-blade aperture (vs the prior's 8 blades) for smoother rendering of out-of-focus areas of your imagery.

Image Stabilization Improvements

Enjoy a new 3rd mode for IS that makes it much easier and faster to track and frame a moving subject. It can be used alongside "Panning" Live View mode in certain camera models (such as the Canon 6D Mark II) for optimal performance. This "During Exposure Only" mode is ideal for preventing IS from getting in the way of creating a shot while still getting the benefits of IS in the final product. It delays the application of IS until you press the shutter button, unlike in Modes 1 and 2, where stabilization is constantly performing. Mode 3 is ideal for very erratically-moving subjects. Mode 1 still compensates for shake in all directions and is designed for hand-held shooting. Mode 2 compensates for horizontal shake and is helpful only when shooting across the horizontal axis (i.e. panning). To improve IS overall, a new high-performance CPU is used and allows up to five stops of shake correction for easier handheld shooting in lower light. Supporting all of these IS changes is a reworking of the entire processor and electrical system for not only better IS control and response times but also faster autofocusing.

Optical Enhancements

The front lens element has been repositioned so that the minimum focusing distance is closer. You can now focus as close as 3.28', compared to nearly 4' with the Canon 70-200mm f/4L IS. The maximum magnification has also increased. These changes combined allow you to more easily fill the frame with your subject for beautiful, intimate details of still life and nature as well as more flexibility in portraiture. Additionally, several other lens elements have been reshaped for better performance and a fluorine coating has been applied to minimize moisture retention, dust, and smudging. The 9-blade circular aperture gives incredible control over out-of-focus elements of your imagery. Circular, impactful bokeh can be more easily achieved.

Notable Physical Changes

The diameter of the lens has increased slightly and now accepts a 72mm filter. There is a new, included hood but please note that a tripod collar is not included. The zoom ring has an ergonomic, tapered shape and the durability of the lens overall has been improved.

The Canon 70-200mm f/4L IS II can be paired with both full frame and crop frame sensor EF mount cameras. The focal length equivalent on crop frame sensors is 112-320mm. Give yourself even more reach when you pair this lens with a 2X or 1.4X Canon extender (not included). This lens is ideal for wildlife and sports shooters but is also a great choice for portrait photographers as well as those who enjoy the 70-200mm f/2.8 version but need something lighter for travel.