Canon EF-S 18-55mm f4-5.6 IS STM ST2

The new standard for standard zooms

The latest version of this much-used Canon standard zoom lens is the EF-S 18-55mm f4-5.6 IS STM II. The 18-55mm focal length is a proven range for general purpose photography, resulting in it being included in the majority of entry-level DSLR kits and for many people, this is the only lens you will ever need to use. A versatile range finds this lens wide enough for landscapes and group shots, but with enough zoom to shoot portraits and everyday snapshots.

Perfect for beginners, this 18-55mm lens negates the need for carrying a tripod or getting too involved in flash photography, thanks to a built-in Image Stabiliser. A stabiliser allows you to shoot in darker conditions, like you would find in your home, without your shots being ruined by blur. With IS in play you can take your time concentrating on subject choice and composition, as you won't have to worry too much about mastering settings to avoid camera shake too early in your photographic learning curve.

A new addition with this incarnation of the 18-55mm lens comes at a perfect time for the EOS range, with virtually all camera bodies coming with video shooting of some calibre. The feature that we are referring to is a stepping autofocus motor or STM as is signified on the lens and it not only ensures your lens focuses accurately but also smoothly, quickly and quietly, saving you from seeing and hearing your focus motor at work when you are playing back your home movies.