Canon Unveils Its Smallest, Lightest RF Zoom: The RF 16-28mm f/2.8

Canon’s new year begins with the announcement of a new mirrorless lens, the RF 16-28mm f/2.8 IS STM, a wide-angle zoom with a bright f/2.8 aperture throughout the entire zoom range. Engineered to deliver L-series build and image quality while remaining accessible to shooters of all levels, RF 16-28mm f/2.8 is the smallest and lightest zoom in the RF family and an ideal anytime, anywhere lens for both photo and video.

The lens owes its balance of image quality and form-factor to its optical design. The configuration of ultra-low dispersion elements—previously only seen in L-series lenses—helps to improve image quality, reduce the overall weight of the lens, and maintain the lens’s center of gravity throughout the zoom range. Two additional aspherical elements combine with the UD elements to promote clear, high-resolution images at the maximum aperture.

The lens supports fast, quiet, and accurate autofocus with its leadscrew-type STM focusing motor, working equally well in photo and video applications. For videographers, the lens also suppresses focus breathing while moving through the zoom range. Built-in optical image stabilization benefits handheld use, providing 5.5 stops of correction on its own and up to 8 stops when used with a compatible IBIS-enabled camera body.

The fast, fixed f/2.8 maximum aperture benefits working in low-light scenarios and delivers rich bokeh atop its high-resolution clarity. The lens also has a minimum focus distance of just 7.8”, allowing users to work up close to subjects in creative ways.

Despite its lightweight and compact build, the lens—again like its L-series muses—has a robust weather-resistant construction, meant to endure both time and adverse environments.

For more information about the new lens, including additional features, specs, and highlights, be sure to check out the detailed product page for the RF 16-28mm f/2.8 IS STM. Or drop us a line below, and we’ll do our best to answer all your comments and questions.