The Canon 70d is a popular choice among photographers, known for its versatility and excellent image quality. However, to truly unlock its full potential, it is essential to pair it with the right lens. In this article, we will explore the best lens options available for the Canon 70d, considering various factors such as lens compatibility, types of lenses, and specific photography genres. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced photographer, this comprehensive guide will help you make an informed decision and choose the best lens for your Canon 70d.
Understanding the Canon 70d Lens Mount
Before diving into the world of lenses compatible with the Canon 70d, it is crucial to understand its lens mount. The Canon 70d features an EF-S lens mount, which means it can accept both EF and EF-S lenses. EF lenses are designed for full-frame Canon cameras, while EF-S lenses are specifically engineered for APS-C sensor cameras like the Canon 70d. This compatibility gives Canon 70d users access to a wide range of lenses, making it a versatile camera for various photography needs.
One important thing to note about the Canon 70d lens mount is that it also supports third-party lenses. This means that photographers using the Canon 70d have the option to choose from a wide range of lenses not only from Canon but also from other reputable lens manufacturers. Third-party lenses can offer unique features, different focal lengths, and sometimes even better value for money compared to the original Canon lenses. This opens up even more possibilities for photographers using the Canon 70d, allowing them to explore different creative options and find the perfect lens for their specific needs.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Lens for Canon 70d
When selecting a lens for your Canon 70d, several factors should be taken into consideration to ensure you get the best results. The first factor is the focal length. The Canon 70d has a crop factor of 1.6, meaning the effective focal length of any lens attached to it is multiplied by 1.6. This crop factor affects both zoom and prime lenses, altering the perspective of the captured image.
The second factor to consider is the aperture of the lens. The wider the aperture, the more light the lens can gather, allowing for better low-light performance, shallower depth of field, and the ability to capture fast-moving subjects. The aperture is denoted by an “f-number,” such as f/1.8 or f/2.8. Lower f-numbers indicate wider apertures.
Another crucial factor to consider is the lens type. There are several types of lenses available, including prime lenses, zoom lenses, macro lenses, and telephoto lenses. Each lens type serves a specific purpose and is suitable for different types of photography. Understanding your photography needs will help you decide which lens type would be most beneficial for your Canon 70d.
The third factor to consider is the image stabilization feature of the lens. Image stabilization helps to reduce camera shake, resulting in sharper images, especially when shooting handheld or in low-light conditions. Canon offers lenses with different types of image stabilization, such as optical image stabilization (IS) or in-body image stabilization (IBIS).
Additionally, it is important to consider the build quality and durability of the lens. Some lenses are weather-sealed, which means they are resistant to dust and moisture, making them suitable for outdoor photography in challenging conditions. A well-built lens can withstand the rigors of frequent use and provide reliable performance over time.
Top Lens Brands Compatible with Canon 70d
When it comes to lens brands, Canon offers an extensive range of high-quality lenses that are fully compatible with the Canon 70d. Canon lenses are renowned for their excellent optical performance, durability, and autofocus capabilities. Some of the notable lens series by Canon include the L-series lenses, known for their superior image quality, weather sealing, and robust build quality. Other reputable lens brands compatible with the Canon 70d include Sigma, Tamron, and Tokina, which offer a wide variety of lenses catering to different budgets and photography needs.
In addition to Canon, there are other lens brands that are compatible with the Canon 70d. Sigma is a well-known lens manufacturer that offers a range of lenses for various photography genres, including wide-angle, telephoto, and macro lenses. Their lenses are known for their sharpness, image quality, and affordability.
Exploring Different Lens Types for Canon 70d
Lenses for the Canon 70d can be broadly classified into four main types: prime lenses, zoom lenses, macro lenses, and telephoto lenses. Let’s delve into each type and explore their features and benefits for the Canon 70d.
Prime Lenses
Prime lenses have a fixed focal length and are known for their excellent image quality, wide maximum apertures, and lightweight design. They offer superior sharpness, low distortion, and are generally faster than zoom lenses due to their wider maximum aperture. Prime lenses are ideal for portrait photography, low-light situations, and achieving a shallow depth of field. Popular prime lenses for the Canon 70d include the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM and the Canon EF 35mm f/2 IS USM.
Zoom Lenses
Zoom lenses, as the name suggests, offer the flexibility to adjust the focal length while zooming in or out. They are versatile lenses that cover a wide range of focal lengths in a single lens, eliminating the need to carry multiple primes. Zoom lenses are suitable for various photography genres, such as landscapes, portraits, and wildlife photography. Notable zoom lenses for the Canon 70d include the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM and the Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM.
Macro Lenses
Macro lenses are designed for close-up photography, allowing you to capture intricate details with exceptional clarity. They offer a 1:1 magnification ratio, enabling you to capture subjects at life-size proportions. Macro lenses are widely used in areas like nature photography, product photography, and scientific applications. The Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM and the Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM are popular macro lenses for the Canon 70d.
Telephoto Lenses
Telephoto lenses have a longer focal length and are ideal for capturing subjects at a distance. They are commonly used for wildlife, sports, and event photography, where it may not be possible or convenient to get physically close to the subject. Telephoto lenses allow you to bring distant subjects closer and isolate them from the background, resulting in stunning images with beautiful bokeh. The Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM and the Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Contemporary are excellent telephoto lens options for the Canon 70d.
Exploring Different Lens Types for Canon 70d
Lenses for the Canon 70d can be broadly classified into four main types: prime lenses, zoom lenses, macro lenses, and telephoto lenses. Let’s delve into each type and explore their features and benefits for the Canon 70d.
Prime Lenses
Prime lenses have a fixed focal length and are known for their excellent image quality, wide maximum apertures, and lightweight design. They offer superior sharpness, low distortion, and are generally faster than zoom lenses due to their wider maximum aperture. Prime lenses are ideal for portrait photography, low-light situations, and achieving a shallow depth of field. Popular prime lenses for the Canon 70d include the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM and the Canon EF 35mm f/2 IS USM.
Zoom Lenses
Zoom lenses, as the name suggests, offer the flexibility to adjust the focal length while zooming in or out. They are versatile lenses that cover a wide range of focal lengths in a single lens, eliminating the need to carry multiple primes. Zoom lenses are suitable for various photography genres, such as landscapes, portraits, and wildlife photography. Notable zoom lenses for the Canon 70d include the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM and the Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM.
Macro Lenses
Macro lenses are designed for close-up photography, allowing you to capture intricate details with exceptional clarity. They offer a 1:1 magnification ratio, enabling you to capture subjects at life-size proportions. Macro lenses are widely used in areas like nature photography, product photography, and scientific applications. The Canon EF-S 60mm f/2.8 Macro USM and the Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM are popular macro lenses for the Canon 70d.
Telephoto Lenses
Telephoto lenses have a longer focal length and are ideal for capturing subjects at a distance. They are commonly used for wildlife, sports, and event photography, where it may not be possible or convenient to get physically close to the subject. Telephoto lenses allow you to bring distant subjects closer and isolate them from the background, resulting in stunning images with beautiful bokeh. The Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM and the Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Contemporary are excellent telephoto lens options for the Canon 70d.
When choosing a lens for your Canon 70d, it’s important to consider your specific photography needs and shooting style. Each lens type offers unique advantages and can greatly enhance your photographic capabilities. Whether you’re a portrait photographer, a nature enthusiast, or a sports shooter, there’s a lens out there that can help you capture the perfect shot with your Canon 70d.
Best Prime Lenses for Canon 70d: A Comprehensive Review
Now, let’s delve into the best prime lenses available for the Canon 70d and review their features and benefits.
Prime lenses are a popular choice among photographers for their superior image quality and wide aperture capabilities. They are fixed focal length lenses, meaning they do not zoom in or out. This limitation, however, allows prime lenses to be designed specifically for a particular focal length, resulting in sharper images and better low-light performance.
Zoom Lenses That Enhance Your Photography with Canon 70d
Zoom lenses are a popular choice for many photographers due to their versatility. Let’s explore some exceptional zoom lenses that will enhance your photography with the Canon 70d.
One of the top zoom lenses for the Canon 70d is the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens. This lens offers a wide focal range, allowing you to capture both wide-angle shots and close-up details. The built-in image stabilization helps to minimize camera shake, resulting in sharper images. Additionally, the STM (Stepping Motor) technology provides smooth and quiet autofocus, making it ideal for both photography and videography.
Macro Photography with Canon 70d: Recommended Lens Options
Macro photography opens up a whole new world of capturing intricate details. Here are some recommended lens options for macro photography with the Canon 70d.
1. Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L IS USM Macro Lens:
This lens is highly regarded among macro photographers for its exceptional image quality and versatility. With a focal length of 100mm, it allows for a comfortable working distance from the subject, while the f/2.8 aperture provides excellent low-light performance. The built-in Image Stabilization (IS) helps to minimize camera shake, ensuring sharp and detailed images.
2. Sigma 105mm f/2.8 EX DG OS HSM Macro Lens:
For those looking for an alternative to Canon lenses, the Sigma 105mm f/2.8 EX DG OS HSM Macro Lens is a popular choice. It offers a similar focal length and aperture as the Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L IS USM, but at a more affordable price point. The lens features Optical Stabilization (OS) technology, which compensates for camera shake and allows for handheld shooting at slower shutter speeds.
Portrait Photography: Must-Have Lenses for Canon 70d
Portrait photography requires a unique set of lenses that can beautifully capture the subject’s features. Discover the must-have lenses for portrait photography with the Canon 70d.
When it comes to portrait photography, one of the must-have lenses for the Canon 70d is the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM lens. This lens is known for its wide aperture, which allows for stunning background blur and a shallow depth of field. It is also lightweight and compact, making it a great choice for photographers on the go.
Another essential lens for portrait photography with the Canon 70d is the Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM lens. This lens offers a longer focal length, which is ideal for capturing flattering portraits with a natural perspective. With its wide aperture, it also allows for beautiful bokeh and excellent low-light performance.
Landscape Photography: Choosing the Perfect Lens for Canon 70d
Landscape photography demands lenses that can capture the vastness and beauty of nature. We discuss the factors to consider when choosing the perfect lens for landscape photography with the Canon 70d.
When it comes to landscape photography with the Canon 70d, one of the key factors to consider is the focal length of the lens. A wide-angle lens, typically ranging from 10mm to 35mm, is often preferred for capturing expansive landscapes. This type of lens allows you to include more of the scene in your frame, emphasizing the grandeur of the natural environment.
Wildlife Photography: Telephoto Lenses for Capturing Nature with Canon 70d
To capture the majesty of wildlife, telephoto lenses are essential. Explore the telephoto lenses that will help you capture stunning wildlife images with the Canon 70d.
When it comes to wildlife photography, having the right equipment can make all the difference. The Canon 70d is a popular choice among photographers for its advanced features and versatility. However, to truly capture the beauty and detail of wildlife, telephoto lenses are a must-have.
Telephoto lenses allow you to zoom in on distant subjects, bringing them closer to you and creating a more intimate and immersive image. With the Canon 70d, you have a range of telephoto lenses to choose from, each offering unique capabilities and focal lengths.
One popular option is the Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM lens. This lens provides a versatile zoom range, allowing you to capture both wide-angle shots and close-up details. Its image stabilization technology helps to minimize camera shake, ensuring sharp and clear images even at longer focal lengths.
Another excellent choice is the Canon EF 400mm f/5.6L USM lens. This lens offers a fixed focal length, which can be advantageous for wildlife photography as it allows for a wider maximum aperture. This means you can achieve a shallower depth of field, isolating your subject and creating a beautiful bokeh effect.
For those looking for even more reach, the Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS III USM lens is a top-of-the-line option. With its super telephoto focal length, this lens allows you to capture wildlife from a distance without disturbing their natural behavior. Its advanced image stabilization technology and fast autofocus make it ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects.
When choosing a telephoto lens for wildlife photography with the Canon 70d, it’s important to consider factors such as focal length, aperture, image stabilization, and autofocus capabilities. Each lens has its own strengths and limitations, so it’s worth experimenting with different options to find the one that best suits your needs and shooting style.
With the right telephoto lens and the Canon 70d, you’ll be able to capture stunning wildlife images that truly showcase the beauty and wonder of the natural world.
Low Light Photography: High-Quality Lenses for Canon 70d
Low light situations require lenses that can gather as much light as possible. Discover the high-quality lenses that excel in low light photography with the Canon 70d.
Wide Angle Lenses for Expanding Your Perspective with Canon 70d
Wide angle lenses offer a unique perspective and can capture a wider field of view. Discover the wide angle lenses that will expand your perspective with the Canon 70d.
Travel Photography Essentials: Lightweight Lenses for Canon 70d
When traveling, lightweight lenses are essential. We explore the lightweight lens options that are perfect for travel photography with the Canon 70d.
Sports and Action Photography: Fast and Reliable Lenses for Canon 70d
Sports and action photography demand lenses that can keep up with fast-moving subjects. Discover the fast and reliable lenses that will excel in capturing sports and action with the Canon 70d.
Best Lens Accessories to Enhance Your Experience with Canon 70d
In addition to lenses, there are various accessories that can enhance your photography experience with the Canon 70d. We discuss the best lens accessories you should consider.
Budget-Friendly Lens Options for the Canon 70d Photographer
Photography can be an expensive hobby or profession, but there are still budget-friendly lens options available. We explore the best budget-friendly lenses for the Canon 70d photographer.
By considering the factors mentioned above and exploring the various lens options available, you can find the best lens for your Canon 70d that suits your photography style and budget. Remember, the lens you choose plays a critical role in achieving stunning images, so take your time to research, test, and experiment before making a final decision. Happy shooting!
