This is Canon’s first macro lens dedicated to APS-C sized sensors, so it’s geared towards cameras such as the EOS 30D or 350D. The focal length on an APS-C sensor Canon camera is extended by 1.6x, so this lens offers the equivalent of 96mm. Because it is dedicated to digital cameras the optics are coated with Canon Super Spectra coatings, designed to reduce internal reflections, flare, and chromatic aberrations and provide clarity, colour and contrast.

The lens consists of twelve elements in eight groups, and offers a close focusing distance of just 20cm, with 1:1 magnification. The lens uses an Ultra Sonic Motor for AF movement, which is quiet and quick. This is especially useful if you’re shooting live subjects, such as insects. Switching between auto and manual focus is facilitated by a switch on the lens, which is marginally less quick than the two-position focus ring seen on some other lenses, as you have to move your hands from the focus ring to the switch and back to focus ring.

The lens produces the best performance at around f/5.6, and holds that well through the middle of the aperture range before dipping down at f/16. Similarly the chromatic readings in the corners drop as the aperture is reduced, but still within limits of acceptability.