Review 3 of 48
Price Paid:
$375.00
from Canon Summary: I purchased this lens directly though Canon, taking advantage of their Authorized Dealer Associate Purchase Program. I chose it to be my first (and currently only) lens to go with my Canon EOS 30D.
I have taken over 3,000 pictures with it in the little time I have had it and it is still growing on me. I do recommend purchasing a filter for it and screwing it on the moment you unwrap the lens. You will not regret it.
It is a breeze to use and the minimum focusing distance works wonders. I can print a 10" long grain of rice at full photo quality, and that is macro. It also works well for non-macro photography. It makes a very nice portrait lens, although a little long for some.
You are paying a premium for the close focusing distance, so if you don't need it, buy a different lens. Otherwise, buy it and use it and love it. Strengths: The f/stop is low, the bokeh smooth, the colors vibrant, the focusing quick. Need I go on? Ok, I will. Just plain 'ol easy to use.
The manual-override on autofocus mode is very convenient, although it is reset as soon as you re-partial-push the shutter down to get a new reading on exposure and the like.
The build quality is firm and solid. It is well designed and feels good on the camera and in the hand, although it is a little long for some people and most fanny-pack cases (moms really need to get over those anyways).
I especially like the internal focusing. No elements extend or rotate, which gives it an even more secure body. Also, the USM is Ring-type, Canon's best for their highest grade glass. It can seek in low light, but coupled with the wide aperture, it appears to be revealing whole new compositions when it jumps about. You will find yourself using manual focus quite a bit just because autofocus isn't telepathic yet, but it is nice to know that the auto is there. Weaknesses: They really need to offer a version with Image Stabilization installed. You never realize how nice it is until you don't have it. Because of that, I tend to suffer in low light, but I am sure I shoot more low-light than the average photographer.
I have had no problems with this lens and don't forsee any, although it is not for everyone. Similar Products Used: Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM and Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6. My mom has both and I have used the 70-300 quite extensively. Both are slow and optically, well, not L, but both are usable. If it wasn't for the 70-300's 4.9 foot minimum focusing distance, I wouldn't mind using it as my walk-around lens. Customer Service: No problems so far.
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