Top Picks for Canon 70D Camera Lenses
Canon 70D and Its Complementary Lenses: A Closer Look
The Canon 70D, a significant step up from the Rebel series, is a crop-frame DSLR that boasts a 20.2-megapixel image sensor, Full HD 1080p video, a flip-out screen, and weather sealing [1]. When it comes to lenses, the Canon 70D offers a variety of options to suit different photographic needs.
One such option is the Canon EF-S 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5 USM lens. This ultra-wide zoom lens, with a focal length range of 10-22mm, provides an expansive field of view ideal for landscapes, architecture, interiors, and creative wide-angle shots on the APS-C sensor of the 70D [2].
The lens offers fast, silent USM autofocus with full-time manual focus, enhancing usability in both photos and videos without disturbing subjects [2][3]. It delivers good optical performance with sharp images and relatively minimal distortion, especially notable for corner sharpness on the 70D’s APS-C sensor [3][4].
The lightweight and well-balanced design of the lens helps handheld use and portability, complementing the ergonomics of the Canon 70D body [4]. However, it has some drawbacks. The variable maximum aperture (f/3.5-4.5) means lower light-gathering ability in the telephoto end and less capability for shallow depth-of-field or low-light performance compared to fixed-aperture or faster zoom lenses [4]. Additionally, it does not feature image stabilization, which may be a drawback in low-light or video shooting without a tripod [3]. Some distortion and chromatic aberration can still be noticeable at the widest angles, though often correctable in post-processing with lens profiles [3].
Another nice option for those who prefer to carry fewer lenses is the Canon 15-85mm f/3.5-5.6 IS lens. This lens offers an impressive spectrum of focal lengths from wide-angle to medium telephoto, equivalent to 24-136mm on a 35mm camera [5]. It features a manual focus override that is activated by moving the focus ring with your finger, making it a versatile choice for various shooting situations.
The Canon 70D is also sold in kits with the 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 STM lens, which offers superior optical quality to Canon's past 18-55mm versions [6]. The Canon 40mm f/2.8 STM lens is another kit option, a pancake lens compatible with Canon DSLRs, producing exceptional images with almost no distortion [7]. The 40mm focal length, equivalent to 64mm on a 35mm camera, may be slightly awkward for some users, but it delivers excellent performance, particularly for video, thanks to its STM motor for smooth and silent autofocus [8][9].
For those seeking a telephoto zoom, the Canon 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM lens is a worthy consideration. This lens offers sharpness throughout its zoom range, fast autofocus, and image stabilization, making it a solid choice for sports, wildlife, and portrait photography [10].
However, for the Canon 70D, the 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM lens, while a budget telephoto zoom for a full-frame DSLR like the 6D, is not the preferred choice. For the 70D, the 55-250 STM is a more suitable option [11].
In conclusion, the Canon 70D, coupled with its complementary lenses, offers a versatile and high-performing system for photographers. Whether you're capturing wide landscapes, close-up portraits, or distant subjects, there's a lens to suit your needs.
