Mark Ellington
Canon 55-200mm EFM STM Lens
Introduction
The Canon 55-200mm EFM f4.5-6.3 IS STM Lens is a versatile zoom lens designed for Canon’s EF-M mirrorless camera system. Manufactured by Canon, a leader in imaging technology, this lens is intended for photographers who want to expand their creative possibilities with a medium telephoto lens that is compact and lightweight, making it an excellent choice for both amateur and professional photographers.
Product Overview
This lens boasts a focal length range of 55-200mm, making it ideal for capturing portraits, wildlife, and distant subjects. It features a variable aperture of f/4.5-6.3 and is equipped with Canon’s Image Stabilization (IS) technology, which helps to reduce camera shake. With its STM (Stepping Motor) autofocus system, it offers quiet and smooth focusing, making it suitable for both still photography and video recording.
Appearance and Design
The Canon 55-200mm EFM lens has a sleek, black exterior that exudes a professional look. The construction consists of 17 elements arranged in 11 groups, contributing to its durable yet lightweight design. The lens is relatively compact for a telephoto zoom, making it easy to carry around. Unique design features include a textured focus ring, which provides a good grip for manual adjustments, and a retractable design that allows for easy portability when not in use.
Key Features and Specifications
- Focal Length: 55-200mm
- Maximum Aperture: f/4.5-6.3
- Lens Construction: 17 elements in 11 groups
- Diagonal Angle of View: 27°50′ – 7°50′
- Focus Adjustment: AF with full-time manual focus
- Closest Focusing Distance: 3.28 ft. (1.0m)
- Part Number: 9517B002
- Model: EF-M55-200ISSTM
- Warranty: 1 Year
- Color: Black
- Release Date: October 4, 2015
Experience Using the Product
Using the Canon 55-200mm EFM lens in various scenarios showcases its versatility and effectiveness. When shooting portraits, the lens provides a beautiful bokeh effect, artfully blurring the background and making the subject stand out. The zoom capability allows for easy framing adjustments without needing to move physically closer to the subject.
In wildlife photography, the lens excels, providing sharp images even at its maximum zoom. The Image Stabilization feature proves invaluable in reducing blur from camera shake, especially in lower light conditions. The lens performed admirably during video recording as well, with the STM motor ensuring smooth and quiet autofocus transitions, which is a significant benefit for filmmakers.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry.
- Versatile focal length suitable for various photography styles.
- Effective Image Stabilization reduces camera shake.
- Smooth and quiet autofocus ideal for video recording.
- Good build quality with a professional aesthetic.
Cons
- Maximum aperture could be wider for low-light performance.
- Price point may be considered high for entry-level photographers.
- Not weather-sealed, limiting its use in harsh conditions.
Conclusion
Overall, the Canon 55-200mm EFM f4.5-6.3 IS STM Lens is a solid investment for those looking to expand their photography toolkit. Its combination of versatility, compact design, and effective stabilization makes it a worthy choice for both casual and serious photographers alike. While it may not be the best option for extremely low-light conditions or rugged environments, its performance in a variety of scenarios makes it a reliable lens that can elevate your photography experience. If you’re a Canon mirrorless camera user, this lens is definitely worth considering.
