An Air Sphere Coating (ASC) has been applied to lens elements to reduce backlit flaring and ghosting for maintained light transmission and high contrast in strong lighting conditions.

A ring-type Ultrasonic Motor (USM), along with optimized focusing algorithms and a high-speed CPU, is employed to deliver fast, precise, and quiet autofocus performance as well as full-time manual focus override.

Optical image stabilization minimizes the effects of camera shake by compensating for up to four stops of shutter speed.

Rounded nine-blade diaphragm contributes to a pleasing out of focus quality that benefits the use of shallow depth of field and selective focus techniques.

As a member of the esteemed L-series, this lens is sealed against dust and moisture for working in inclement environmental conditions.

Fluorine-coating on exposed elements affords protection to the optical system, resists smudging and fingerprints, and is easier to clean.