Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM: Review

Posted to Lenses 2009-12-06

Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM review:

For the professional photographer, lens capabilities are extremely important when looking at taking professional quality photographs. The Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM is the top of the range in the L series lens by Canon and has a focal length of between 70 and 200mm. Be warned, that if you like the features that this lens provides, it is not for the budget conscious.

Accessories should not be a problem with the vast range of Canon lens caps and lens protection at your disposal. The diagonal view angle of the lens is between 34 degrees and 12 degrees, giving a fairly handy field of vision. Closest focusing distances range from 4.3 feet, making this lens a good addition if you are taking a lot of portraits or sports photos. The lens is heavily constructed with an 8 blade circular aperture system used to achieve the f2.8 aperture throughout.

Rating:

3.8 out of 5

Value

You will pay a heavy price for the quality that is contained within the Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM, possibly placing this lens outside the budget of an amateur photographer. For the professional or advanced amateur, the lens is at the price range expected of it's value. The performance and quality of image of the L Series lenses are greatly enhanced over the lower end models, so it could be well worth stretching the bank, to get the most out of your photos.

Ergonomics

For the professionally minded photographer the extra size that this lens adds to your camera isn't going to be a problem. It measures 3.4 x 7.8 inches and adds 3.24 lbs of weight to your camera. For an advanced amateur photographer looking for a good quality, high performance telephoto zoom lens, this is probably a bit of overkill but you will get very excited, once you see the results. The internal focusing system gives easy focus adjustments and there is also a good range of accessories that Canon supply with this camera for added functionality and storage options.

Summary

With superior performance, comes superior price tags and that holds true with this lens being in the high end of Canons L series lens. Aperture and focal length performance are of extremely high quality and the internal focus system adds ease of use to the rest of the impressive features the Canon EF 70-200mm possesses. If you are prepared for the price tag, or need the top of the line lens for your gadget bag, this is the pick of the pack.

Pros

Great photo quality
70-200mm focal length
F 2.8 Aperture
Weight in a 3.24 lbs.

Cons

High price tag