An EF-S worthy of the L series

While digital boxes "amateurs" are becoming more efficient (EOS 500D, 550D, 40D or 50D, to name only these), it is quite common to find that they are offered in a kit with a goal which will not allow to take advantage of housing performance (including the sensor). The final report is limited by the weakest link in the chain ...

The Canon EF-S 17-55mm f / 2.8 IS USM is the perfect addition to any recent DSLR case, for standard needs. Since it is the EF-S size (S means "short back focus' or short back focal), it can be mounted on the boxes with a sensor APS-C size (and only from the 20D ).

Because of its conversion coefficient linked to the APS-C sensor, it corresponds to a 27 to 88 mm when mounted on the device (35mm equivalent). What makes it relatively versatile for portrait and photojournalism. It quickly becomes limited for telephoto needs, but it is anyway not his vocation.

Its main advantage comes from its exceptional and especially constant brightness ... ie f / 2.8 aperture throughout the zoom range. Coupled with his image stabilization, it provides a gain of three shutter speeds. On paper it does not look like much, but in practice it is simply a new way to photograph: as I always took with me an external flash, I now pass me this cumbersome accessory.
It is now possible to make sharp pictures in places that prohibit the flash or so when this is not possible (through a particular window).

Build quality is neat, without reaching the finish of the L series
I advise the almost systematic use of the lens hood EW 83J, which will protect not only the objective (in addition to a neutral filter) but avoid the halos of light (flare).

In summary a goal that will take advantage of its EOS box while adding very interesting in low light abilities. It is certainly a little heavier (645g) and large (77 mm) than the average ... but what fun and what results!