Lens News

If a patent published by Canon last week is any indication, the company is exploring the possibility of using diffractive optics to create an EF 1000mm f/5.6 DO super telephoto lens that may be smaller and lighter than could be created otherwise.

The “DO” nomenclature in the description is Canon’s terminology for diffractive optics technology that focuses light in a unique manner, enabling the construction of more streamlined lenses. You can see the optical design for this lens in the diagram below.

Should this lens make it to production, it will be Canon’s biggest gun since the EF 1200mm f/5.6 USM lens we previewed last year (pictured above). Here’s what our writer (and Director of Corporate Communications for B&H Photo-Video) Henry Posner said about that behemoth:

“Shooting with a 36-pound lens requires planning and forethought. Where to go, what to shoot, and why are all considerations.”

Perhaps diffractive optics will lighten the load somewhat in the not-too-distant future.

Via Digital Trends