Canon 24mm f/1.4L II

One of Canon’s newest fixed length L-series lenses, the EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM. It features two high-precision, large-diameter aspherical lenses for sharpness across the sensor, even in peripheral areas of full-frame sensors. Lens elements have a newly-designed anti-reflective SWC (Sub Wavelength Coating) that departs from conventional coatings by using an extremely fine structure that minimizes ghosting and flaring across the lens surface, regardless of the angle with which light enters or exits. It also features two UD lens elements to minimize chromatic aberrations, incorporates rear-focusing, ultrasonic, quiet and high-speed AF with full-time manual override. A circular aperture provides beautiful out-of-focus detail and offers legendary dust-resistant and water-resistant L-series construction using only lead-free glass.

Roger’s take: I have to say I’m impressed with the Mk II version. I liked the 24 f/1.4 well, not “wow this is great”, more like “this is a nice lens when you need that aperture and focal length”. The 24 Mark II is clearly better than the Mk I in my opinion. It is a bit sharper in the center and and markedly sharper on the edges wide open (especially if you shoot a full-frame camera). The corners still aren’t the best on a full frame body, even stopped down to f/5.6 they are a bit soft, but I like it far better than the original. The contrast and color throughout the range is best described as ‘vibrant’. Overall its a clear improvement on the original. But I’ll be honest: its still not quite as good as the 35 f/1.4. Close, but not quite.