Release Issued by Canon:
6x wide-angle zoom HD video lens expands shooting versatility of Canon XL H1
Canon, leader in photographic and imaging technology, is pleased to announce the launch of the new HD Video 6x Zoom XL 3.4-20.4mm L lens, specially engineered to deliver the increased resolution that defines High Definition (HD) imaging. At a time when demand for HD content has never been greater, this new wide lens extends the shooting options available to TV studios, production companies, digital filmmakers and other videographers working with the Canon XL H1.
“Introducing a dedicated wide-angle lens for the XL H1, Canon supports the rapidly growing number of professionals and high-end consumers who require superior quality HD capture,” said Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe. “When developing a new lens, Canon is in the unique position of being able to draw on 70 years of optical innovation, 48 years of broadcast lens development, and the expertise of an entire broadcast lens division. The result meets nothing less than the most exacting imaging standards.”
The new Canon HD Video 6x Zoom XL 3.4-20.4mm L lens for the XL H1 incorporates:
6x wide-angle optical zoom with Canon XL lens mount, 35mm equivalent 24.5-147mm
Large diameter f/1.6-2.6 aperture, with independent focus, zoom and iris ring controls
Ultra High Refractive Index Aspherical Lens (UA) elements, allowing a compact lens construction that maintains superior optical quality
Twin built-in Neutral Density (ND) filters (1/6 and 1/32)
Zoom and focus preset points
Integrated mechanical shutter for still image capture
Superior image quality – Canon Video L lens
Feedback from professional users of the Canon XL H1 camcorder has driven development of a new HD 6x wide-angle lens. The lens uses Ultra High Refractive Index Aspherical Lens (UA) elements: delivering the enhanced image quality that HD video requires, it has also been possible to reduce overall lens size.
With close focusing to just 2cm at the widest setting, the new lens is highly adaptable and is particularly useful in restricted working environments.
Independent aperture, focus and zoom rings
The f/1.6-2.6 lens incorporates separate fast and responsive ring controls for focus, zoom and iris. These allow a camera operator the most direct control of key variables during shooting. Partnered with the XL H1 body, it is possible to use either the camcorder’s existing iris control system or the lens ring. With a 6-blade near circular aperture at all settings, the lens delivers attractive defocusing.
ND filters
The new lens incorporates two built-in Neutral Density (ND) filters (1/6 and 1/32), that allow the full range of depth of field to be used even in the strongest lighting conditions.
Zoom and focus presets
Attached to the XL H1 body, zoom and focus points can be stored and returned to at a later date – even if the lens has been detached. Returning to stored settings with speed and accuracy, the function is particularly useful during long production days, when multiple takes from the same position are often required. In conjunction with the XL H1 body, distance display data is also provided on the camcorder’s 2.4” Electronic View Finder (EVF).
Integrated still image capture
An integrated mechanical shutter for still image capture has been incorporated into the new lens. Still image capture is often an invaluable tool for storyboarding on location, general production management and continuity applications: for instance, when reproducing camera setups.
Availability and reader enquiries
The XL 3.4-20.4mm L lens will be available from November 2006.
