Hybrid Image Stabilization (IS) Introducing image stabilization to their 24-70mm L-series lenses, Canon’s Hybrid IS provides four stops of effective shutter speed compensation for both types of camera shake when shooting macro photography: angular and shift. This means you can shoot in dimmer conditions, capturing images with shutter speeds up to four stops slower than would otherwise be possible. Dual UD & Super UD Lens Elements This lens’ optical design utilizes two Super UD and two UD lens elements to minimize chromatic aberration in the edges of your wide-angle shots. It also eliminates color blurring around the edge of your subjects, for images with greater resolution and contrast. Dual Aspherical Lens Elements In addition to the UD elements, this lens combines two types of aspherical lenses to reduce spherical aberration and achieve high image quality across both the entire screen area and throughout the full 24-70mm zoom range. Ring-Type Ultra Sonic Motor (USM) A ring-type USM and high-speed CPU with optimized AF algorithms enable silent and fast autofocusing to help you focus right on the action. Minimum Focusing Distance: 1.25′ This lens has a minimum focusing distance of 1.25′ (0.38 m) across the entire zoom range, excluding the macro mode. Macro Mode With 0.7x Magnification Full macro shooting is possible thanks to the Macro Mode Switch. With up to 0.7x magnification, it is easily accessible with a one-touch switch at the 70mm telephoto end of the zoom range. Manual Focus Override In One Shot Autofocus mode manual focus can be applied for exacting precision. Weather Resistant to Dust & Moisture This lens is highly resistant to dust and water, allowing you to shoot in harsh conditions when necessary. Fluorine Coatings Reduce Fingerprints Fluorine coatings on both the front and rear lens surfaces resist smears and fingerprints. Zoom Lock Lever Keep your lens from unintentionally extending, or creeping, when you don’t want it to with the Zoom Lock lever. It locks the zoom position at the wide end for safe transporting, when the lens is most compact. 9x Circular Aperture Blades With nine circular blades, the lens’ diaphragm delivers soft, pleasant bokeh background effects.