Why Canon lenses white?

4 years 2 months ago #674021 by Travis Brunson
Can someone tell me what is the deal behind Canon lenses being white?

*some of Canon lenses being white.  


,
4 years 2 months ago - 4 years 2 months ago #674035 by Nikon Shooter
Form Canon Infobank.

Most EF lenses have black barrels, but a few are white (actually
a light grey or beige). The white lenses are all large super-tele-
photos. There is a good reason for this.

Lenses contain glass elements. These expand with heat. This is not
usually a problem with compact lenses − the amount of expansion
is small. But large lenses contain large elements and here expansion
can bring a lens close to the limits of its design tolerances. A white
surface reflects sunlight, helping to keep the lens cooler.

Incidentally, you will find that the manual focusing action of some
black lenses allows focusing past its infinity setting (sometimes called
over-focusing). This is also to allow for expansion. If the lens is used
in hot conditions, infinity focusing will be closer to the end of the travel.

Light is free… capturing it is not!
Photo Comments
,
4 years 2 months ago #674066 by garyrhook
Despite what Canon says, at one point they only had black lenses. Lore says that they wanted their products to stand out (at football games, etc) so they made them white to differentiate.

I'm willing to bet that the amount of expansion in a lens casing, between 0 and 100 C, is irrelevant. They would be (should be) choosing materials that resist the effects of temperature change.

Any lens in the sun in Texas is going to get warm. Just like a car. So I'll opine that the above quote from Canon is drivel.

I could be wrong, but black lens bodies from Nikon have never resulted in complaints about "my 70-200" won't perform properly when it's 90F outside!"


Photo Comments
,
4 years 2 months ago #674082 by Nikon Shooter

garyrhook wrote: So I'll opine that the above quote from Canon is drivel.



When I search for " Why Canon lenses are white?", I just 
couldn't leave the thread without quoting was Canon
sent out there to justify the ugliest decision ever made!

Nikkor too uses fluoride glass in their long lenses! 

Light is free… capturing it is not!
Photo Comments
,
4 years 2 months ago #674100 by effron
Yup, some fall for anything. I've had Nikons of many lengths in quite hot conditions and NEVER an issue.

Why so serious?
Photo Comments
,

817.3K

241K

  • Facebook

    817,251 / Likes

  • Twitter

    241,000 / Followers

  • Google+

    1,620,816 / Followers

Latest Reviews

The Leica SL2-S is an attractive, premium mirrorless camera with photo and video specs that are sure to impress. And with the legendary Leica name, you know this camera exudes quality!

Mar 26, 2024

The Sigma fp L is a compact full-frame camera with a 61-megapixel sensor, 4K video capabilities, in-body image stabilization, and weather-sealed construction. What’s not to like?!

Mar 19, 2024

The Canon 1DX Mark III is a big, burly professional camera packed with top-end features. Is it worth the investment in 2024? Find out in this detailed review!

Mar 04, 2024

In the OM-1 vs OM-5 debate, which camera comes out on top? Though they’re different cameras for different purposes, comparing them head to head clarifies which is best for your needs.

Mar 01, 2024

Forum Top Posters

Latest Articles

The Leica SL2-S is an attractive, premium mirrorless camera with photo and video specs that are sure to impress. And with the legendary Leica name, you know this camera exudes quality!

Mar 26, 2024

Opening a photography business means undertaking various photography marketing strategies to promote your work. But you don’t want to do the same old thing - try these unique ideas!

Mar 22, 2024

The Canon EOS 80D might be a few years old, but it’s nevertheless a quality camera to invest in as a beginner or enthusiast looking for a mid-range DSLR with tons of lens options.

Mar 22, 2024

Wedding consultations are a critical part of a wedding photography gig. It’s when you learn about the couple and their wants, and present them with how you will meet those desires.

Mar 22, 2024

If you're looking for the best metal print of 2023, you'll find it from Artbeat Studios. After months of testing, Artbeat Studios beat out the competition!

Mar 21, 2024

Getting the best video shots on your camera or smartphone requires you to understand the fundamentals of composition and video editing. It helps to have the appropriate gear, too!

Mar 20, 2024

It’s easy to lose your inspiration behind the lens, especially as a beginner. These creative photography projects can help inspire you to try new techniques and improve your photos.

Mar 20, 2024

The Sigma fp L is a compact full-frame camera with a 61-megapixel sensor, 4K video capabilities, in-body image stabilization, and weather-sealed construction. What’s not to like?!

Mar 19, 2024