The EF 16–35mm f/2.8L III USM has a bright constant maximum aperture of f/2.8, which provides superb control over depth of field and the ability to maintain the same aperture throughout the zoom range. This is particularly helpful when shooting outdoors at dusk or in inclement weather, or indoors in dimly lit rooms. At f/2.8, the EF 16–35mm f/2.8L III USM offers a bright view when composing images using the camera’s viewfinder.

The EF 16–35mm f/2.8L III USM features a new optical design engineered to deliver images of remarkable clarity and depth – a magnificent complement to the large, high-resolution sensors in the SLRs favored by today’s advanced photographers. It employs two large-diameter double-surface GMo lenses plus a ground aspherical lens to help decrease distortion, curvature of field and astigmatism. Two UD lenses help to reduce chromatic aberration, leading to precise color rendition, accurate edge-to-edge detail plus excellent contrast throughout the lens’s zoom range. This means sharp landscapes, reduced distortion in the edges of the frame and an overall improvement in image quality no matter the subject.

The EF 16–35mm f/2.8L III USM features both Subwavelength Coatings (SWC) and Air Sphere Coatings (ASC) on its lens elements to help combat reflections, flare and ghosting, and deliver clean images with reduced aberrations from reflected light. Subwavelength Coatings help prevent reflections by arranging an array of wedge-shaped nanostructures on the lens’s surface that are smaller than the wavelength of visible light and are able to help control reflection and flare. Air Sphere Coating technology puts an ultra-low refractive layer on the lens element designed to significantly reduce both flare and ghosting. These coatings, in concert with the EF 16–35mm f/2.8L III USM’s overall optical formula, help to deliver a clean image to the camera’s sensor, which can decrease the need for post-production.

Befitting an L-series lens, the EF 16–35mm f/2.8L III USM is built to endure photography and moviemaking in even the harshest conditions*. It features a dust- and water-resistant construction on the switch panel, the zoom and focus rings, and on the lens mount, helping to prevent dust and moisture from interfering with operation. When outfitted with a Canon filter, the EF 16–35mm f/2.8L III USM is supremely dust- and water-resistant.

* Full weather-resistance for front section of lens requires attaching optional Canon PROTECT filter.

Thanks to its 9-blade, circular aperture, the EF 16–35mm f/2.8L III USM is capable of gorgeous, evocative out-of-focus areas and soft backgrounds throughout its zoom range. Its f/2.8 maximum aperture enables shallow depth of field, which is often difficult to achieve with ultra wide-angle lenses and lenses with small maximum apertures. By delivering an incredible level of control over background blur, the EF 16–35mm f/2.8L III USM helps you define the mood of your image, creating impactful photos and videos.

The EF 16–35mm f/2.8L III USM is engineered to provide fast, accurate operation for efficient performance across the board. It features a high-performance control CPU that drives Canon’s quick inner focusing with ring USM for quick starts and stops. Plus, it’s programmed with optimized AF algorithms that help achieve fast, accurate focus and maintain it consistently.

The EF 16–35mm f/2.8L III USM offers complete manual control, even when AF is engaged, with a simple twist of the lens’s focus ring. Additionally, full-time manual focus means it’s easy to achieve and maintain focus manually, which can be especially handy when shooting video or composing still images on an SLR’s screen.

To help maintain a clean lens, even after multiple lens changes in sub-optimal conditions, the EF 16–35mm f/2.8L III USM has a specially designed non-stick fluorine coating on its front and rear surfaces. This fluorine coating helps prevent dust, water, oil and other surface residue like fingerprints from sticking to the lens, resulting in quick and easy wiping, without the use of solvents.