This lightweight, compact EF-S series standard zoom lens is equipped with an image stabilizer, and takes advantage of the small image circle of the EF-S format to deliver 5x zooming in an amazingly compact form. The seventeen element, twelve group optical system uses only environmentally friendly lead-free glass, with a double aspherical molded glass lens as the 15th element to ensure high picture quality over the whole zoom range. The image stabilizer gives stability equivalent to about three shutter speeds*1, substantially improving handheld steadiness, and ensures that you won’t miss that once-in-a-lifetime shot. The optical design and coating have been optimized to reduce the flare and ghosts that are prone to occur with digital cameras. Exquisite bokeh (blur effects) enabled by the round diaphragm, and the full-time manual focus function further expand expressive possibilities. The lens mechanism is designed to ensure that it fits only EOS DIGITAL SLR cameras designed to take EF-S lenses, and it is equipped with a special attachment indicator and protective rubber mount ring to prevent mistaken attempts to attach it to other EOS SLR cameras, and to prevent damage to the camera body.