Quote Originally Posted by neuroanatomist View Post
If those specs are true, a 0.7x max mag is pretty darn close to a true macro, and much higher than any other non-macro lens in the lineup. (the 24-105 is 0.3x, 24-70 is 0.29x, 24-70 II is 0.21x). The use of H-IS would be consistent with that high max mag.
Hi max mag is great. Working distance is going to be an issue - to achieve that 0.7x, you're at the MFD of 7.9". MFD is measured from the sensor - with the lens extended to 70mm, the front element will be about 6.2" from the sensor (basing estimate on extended length of 24-70/2.8L II). That means the subject will be ~1.75" from the end of the lens (the hood will be almost that long). Getting anything other than side or back lighting for 0.7 mag shots with this lens is going to be a challenge.