The Canon EF‑M 22 mm f/2 STM is a prime interchangeable lens designed for Canon’s EOS M series of mirror‑less digital cameras, which employ the EF‑M mount. Introduced by Canon in 2015, the lens provides a focal length of 22 mm, corresponding to a 35 mm‑equivalent focal length of approximately 35 mm on full‑frame sensors, making it a moderate‑wide‑angle lens suitable for street, documentary, and everyday photography.
Key specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Focal length | 22 mm (≈35 mm full‑frame equivalent) |
| Maximum aperture | f/2 |
| Minimum aperture | f/22 |
| Optical construction | 6 elements in 5 groups, including an aspherical element |
| Minimum focusing distance | 0.20 m (7.9 in) |
| Maximum magnification | 0.12× |
| Angle of view (diagonal) | 49° |
| Autofocus system | Stepping Motor (STM) for quiet and smooth focusing |
| Image stabilization | None (stabilization relies on in‑camera body stabilization, if available) |
| Filter thread | 49 mm |
| Dimensions (approx.) | 56.5 mm × 22.5 mm (diameter × length) |
| Weight | 105 g (3.7 oz) |
| Release date | 2015 |
| Compatibility | Canon EOS M, EOS M2, EOS M3, EOS M5, EOS M6, EOS M6 Mark II, EOS M50, EOS M100 and later EF‑M‑mount bodies |
Design and usage
The lens is constructed from a compact, lightweight barrel of metal and high‑quality optical glass, emphasizing portability while delivering a relatively fast f/2 maximum aperture for shallow depth‑of‑field control and low‑light performance. The inclusion of a stepping motor enables silent autofocus operation, which is advantageous for video recording. The lens does not contain image‑stabilization elements; users rely on camera‑body stabilization (when present) or steadier shooting techniques.
Reception and applications
Since its launch, the Canon EF‑M 22 mm f/2 STM has been regarded as a versatile “walk‑around” lens for EOS M users. Its 35 mm‑equivalent field of view is often described as a “classic” perspective for general‑purpose photography, and the fast aperture makes it useful for environmental portraits, street scenes, and interior work where space is limited.
References
- Canon Inc., “EF‑M 22 mm f/2 STM” product specifications (Canon USA website, 2015).
- Review and performance data reported in photography publications such as DPReview and Imaging Resource (2015–2022).