Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM Lens
SKU: CA1352AF
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Questions & Answers
MARTIN V : Between a new 135mm f/2 and a used 85mm f/1.2, which would you pick for portraits with a full frame hi-res DSLR? Would buy both but I can only afford one. I love the 3D pop effect of the 85mm, which makes subjects really stand out of the background. I know the 135mm comes close, but is it as good as the 85mm? Focusing, weight and weather sealing are non-issues. Which lens offers more "wow"?DAVID S : I can't answer for the 135mm F2 lens which I'm sure is a very fine lens, but I do have the 85mm and it does a very fine job for Portraits. It is extremely sharp.KENNETH S : The 85 is a beautiful lens and the shallow depth of field can be a very useful tool. The 135 is a lightweight tool but sometimes doesn't feel long enough or too short. Hope that helps.
Shopper : does this lens have IS?Douglas J : No this lens does not have IS. It is a great lens and I have not found a need for image stabilization while using this lens. Using a tripod pretty much eliminates the need for IS, but even hand held this lens performs extremely well.SNEZHANA P : No, it does not!KATRINA L : There is no IS on this lens. It's critical that the shutter speed be high enough to eliminate blurs when using this lens unless you have a tripod.PATRICK G : Nope. It's an awesome prime with creamy bokeh at f2 though. If you want IS, buy the 70-200 f2.8 IS. Canon's absolute best all-around portrait lens.HAROLD C : Nope
Shopper : I'm trying to decide what to get. Why did you pick this one?MATT L : What type of lens are you looking to get? Just a telephoto? I chose this instead of the 70-200 because its waaay smaller and lighter, its a lot faster (2.0 vs. 2.8), in my opinion its canons sharpest lens.
If you need more length, maybe the 70-200 would be a better fit. Or maybe go 135 f/2 and 200 f/2.8. I also only shoot with prime lenses. Thats sorta why I love it too.
Hope that helps.
MattKELLI D : I chose the 135mm f/2L after I had rented the 70-200 2.8L and just didn't love that lens - it didn't fit with what I wanted to accomplish. I chose the 135 because I really enjoy shooting with primes, and it offered a good deal of reach without compromising on speed.
This is absolutely my favorite lens, although it's admittedly not useful in every situation, so I don't use it as much as I would like. It's tack sharp, even at 2.0, renders beautiful bokeh and is just perfect for my needs.ROBERT M : I chose the lens for wildlife photography primarily, but thus far have not used it much at all. This is because of illness in the family since it was purchased, and because I regret having gotten the lens after all, and instead wishing that I had gotten a wide angle lens instead. However, I have zero complaints as to the quality of the equipment.STEVE M : Very sharp portrait lens. Nice bokeh and fast AF. Good bang for your buck, in my opinion.JENNIFER W : Hello! I no longer use this lens as I have switched to the Nikon system but when I used Canon this was probably my most utilized lens. I chose it for the advantages of prime in an affordable lens that offered an extremely lightweight alternative to the 70-200 for times when I wanted good compression and a crisp, telephoto portrait lens without the weight of the zoom. It is an extremely versatile lens and performs reasonably well in low light conditions. Hope this helps!SHRINIVASAN N : pros:
prime,super fast,excellent bokeh
cons:
prime lens which means no zooming factor so you gotta walk a lot to & from from the subject
Verdict:
If you are more into zoom lenses then this is not for you. You're better of in getting 70-200 if not then you wont go wrong with this oneKEVIN M : Sharp, fast, contrast, bokeh and lightweight. Perfect lens.KENNETH S : I decided on this lens because it's fast and sharp. Plus, the price is very reasonable.MARTIN H T : It is legendary sharp and a useful length for portraits without being too intimidating like my 70-200mm 2.8.TYLER C : I picked it because it's considered to be one of the sharpest lenses out there. I needed the 135 focal length. I try to shoot primarily with prime lenses since I shoot video and typically have the time to plan out my shots. I love this lens it truly is incredible for the price. The only thing that could be improved is if they could add IS to it. But that would probably double the price.JEAN G : I use this lens for so many different things. It is unparalleled for portrait photography in my opinion. With this lens you can capture crisp, sharp images every time, even in low light. I was skeptical when I was buying this lens because it was a prime but I honestly use this lens for portraits and low light photography every single day. Well worth the money.KATHRYN S : Do you mean why did we pick Canon vs Tamron or Sigma? Why did we pick a lens with aperture 2? Why did we pick a prime vs a zoom?
We picked this lens because we have need for a long distance lens that can work well in low light situations. Short of the VERY expensive 200mm f/2L this is the fastest zoom lens that Canon offers. The fact that it is a prime means that it is going to produce high quality without the loss of performance that adjustable range zooms generally have. There are some great adjustable zooms like the 70-200 but these only go to f/2.8 and in our case where we are fighting for as much light as possible this lens is a good compromise.
Reviews about this item
Review Summary
2021-05-06T08:28:57
Rated 5 out of 5
Don?t read reviews, just get this lens
I don?t know what it is?there?s just this dreamy look to the EF 135mm f/2L, when compared to my 70-200mm f/2.8, even at 200mm. Plus as a prime, it?s so sharp and surprisingly light. It is way more manageable than the 70-200mm.
Jeremiah J.
2021-02-14T16:57:10
Rated 5 out of 5
Sharpest Lens in my bag.
I owns five Canon lentes and this one os the sharpest. Love it.
CONRADO P.
2021-02-14T16:53:25
Rated 5 out of 5
Lens & Flash.
Excelent Products. I'm very Happy.
CONRADO P.
2021-01-10T15:20:51
Rated 5 out of 5
My Canon L-Series Dream Prime lens
I spent the better part of 2020 coveting my ideal "portrait" type prime lens. Originally, I was all in on the EF 85mm f/1.4L IS prime lens. However after much deliberation, I jumped ship to the EF135mm f/2L prime lens. This lens checks off all the boxes and although it does not have image stabilization, I have previously learned to shoot sharp images w/my 24-70mm f/2.8L usm lens with proper technique & settings. My new EF 135mm f/2L has not failed me and has become my "go to" lens for my growing pet (dogs & kitties) photography. This lens is incredibly sharp & the bokeh is to die for. I like that you don't have to be in the subject's face (literally) - I can keep a comfortable distance between me & my subject & achieve the desired composition. Furthermore, I find this lens quite manageable from a weight standpoint compared to my previous go to lenses - EF 24-70mm f/2.8L & 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM. I am thrilled w/this acquisition as it meets my needs well.
Steven O.
2020-08-20T08:08:19
Rated 5 out of 5
Love It
Great lens I get sharp images.
MAYTE D.
2019-11-20T07:14:44
Rated 5 out of 5
Love this lens
Perfectvfornoutdoor family session. Creamy background, sharp focus
KATHERINE M.
2019-09-28T20:00:00
Rated 5 out of 5
Straight Up Magic
The title says it all on this. The sharpness is just right, the color rendition is amazing, and the contrast is incredible. Autofocus is also very fast, which is great because the combination of that and the bright aperture make it a great choice for indoor sports. I personally use it for both sports and portraits, and it does well at both. Stick it on an APS-C body, and it does well for outdoor sports as well. It looks like a slightly sharper 70-200 2.8 at 200mm. The limiter switch for long focus distances also helps with this, and the extra stop of light means higher shutter speeds to freeze action.
matthewdempseyphoto
Originally posted at
2019-05-27T20:00:00
Rated 5 out of 5
Bokeh God!
Now I know why this 23 year old design is still the bokeh monster. Incredibly buttery bokeh! Amazingly sharp at f2.0. Light weight in its category. Fast focus for its age. Started to love this as soon as i took my first picture with this lens.
Pradeep S.
Originally posted at
2019-05-03T20:00:00
Rated 5 out of 5
Lightweight, Fast and Outstanding Image Quality
Previously, I was exclusively using a 50mm f/1.2L. But it was time to finally add a second lens. I already had been eyeing this lens for many years, so already knew of its capabilities and reputation. I did though rent both the 70-200 f/2.8L III and the f/4L II flavor. The former though was too heavy for my liking. And the latter wasn't fast enough for my needs. Thus, I purchased this 135mm f/2L. I primarily do portrait work with speedlites, indoor sports (with shutter at least 1/250s, or outdoor work with faster shutter speeds. Thus, the lack of image stabilization is a non-issue. I'm currently using this lens with a 5D IV. It works beautifully and only a tad heavier than the 50mm f/1.2. I can easily hand-hold, and in a pinch, even hold with a single hand. It is indeed sharper than the 50mm, even when both are at f/2. I have not yet checked to see if it needs any AF micro adjustments. The background blur is insane! That's a look I really enjoy. So this pairs up nicely with the wide 50 in terms of that certain background rendering. As shown in the attached photo, now that I plan to do more portrait work, I needed a longer lens to avoid distortion. The vignetting doesn't affect my style of work. But when needed, incredibly easy to remove in Lightroom. In summary, this is an incredible lens. Lightweight, fast and outstanding image quality. If primes meet your needs, definitely give this lens a strong look.
rseos
Originally posted at
2019-05-03T20:00:00
Rated 5 out of 5
Lightweight, Fast and Outstanding Image Quality
Previously, I was exclusively using a 50mm f/1.2L. But it was time to finally add a second lens. I already had been eyeing this lens for many years, so already knew of its capabilities and reputation. I did though rent both the 70-200 f/2.8L III and the f/4L II flavor. The former though was too heavy for my liking. And the latter wasn't fast enough for my needs. Thus, I purchased this 135mm f/2L. I primarily do portrait work with speedlites, indoor sports (with shutter at least 1/250s, or outdoor work with faster shutter speeds. Thus, the lack of image stabilization is a non-issue. I'm currently using this lens with a 5D IV. It works beautifully and only a tad heavier than the 50mm f/1.2. I can easily hand-hold, and in a pinch, even hold with a single hand. It is indeed sharper than the 50mm, even when both are at f/2. I have not yet checked to see if it needs any AF micro adjustments. The background blur is insane! That's a look I really enjoy. So this pairs up nicely with the wide 50 in terms of that certain background rendering. As shown in the attached photo, now that I plan to do more portrait work, I needed a longer lens to avoid distortion. The vignetting doesn't affect my style of work. But when needed, incredibly easy to remove in Lightroom. In summary, this is an incredible lens. Lightweight, fast and outstanding image quality. If primes meet your needs, definitely give this lens a strong look.
EOS R.
Originally posted at
2019-03-05T11:41:30
Rated 5 out of 5
Awesome!
Love it! So happy to have purchased this!
Monica A.
2019-01-16T06:56:53
Rated 5 out of 5
Bokehlicious
This lens is so sharp and the bokeh is beyond amazing! It's light weight compared to some of the other lenses that come close, but this is THE lens for amazing portraits!
Danielle U.
2018-12-01T03:42:33
Rated 5 out of 5
Excellent choice
Amazing lens! Love it!!
Carol S.
2018-09-06T20:00:00
Rated 5 out of 5
L lense legend
razor sharp, beautiful background, one of the best canon lenses.
rictum
Originally posted at
2018-03-22T18:35:52
Rated 5 out of 5
Worth that bread
Lens is sharp af! Af is like crazy fast really impressed and the extras and free software in the bundle are clutch af thanks adorama lol
Octavius C.
2017-10-30T13:12:14
Rated 5 out of 5
I couldn't be happier with my 135mm lens
There is nothing to say other than I couldn't be happier with my 135mm lens. The only thing is it too long to get here.
TIFFAY C.
2017-10-10T15:13:39
Rated 5 out of 5
Good
It works very well, I’m happy with it so far. Pretty good purchase for me.
JOSE A.
2017-09-05T12:23:58
Rated 5 out of 5
Overall clarity is wonderful
Really great lens it is one of my favorites
Kevin s.
2017-08-30T01:30:20
Rated 5 out of 5
felt like the holidays
I really just wanted my lens.. but then got all this little stuff. Haha it was fun!
Luis S.
2017-08-30T01:02:54
Rated 5 out of 5
super sharp
Dream lens for so many years. Never bought it until recently. Have only ever rented it or just made do with a 70-200 2.8 or another prime. Very comfortable to travel with. Very light. The quality is legendary even at 2.0! I got a sharper copy than the others I have borrowed in the past! Thank you Adorama once again!
Luis S.
2017-06-23T20:00:00
Rated 5 out of 5
If I Could Only Have One Prime Lens...
If I could only have one prime lens, this would be it. This lens shares legendary status with the 85L for its ability to create super dreamy bokeh. Ideal for portrait use, but also sports, as it focuses super fast and accurately! It is very, very sharp, one of the sharpest lenses still. I really enjoy how compact the lens is, which makes it nice to take to sporting or other events. This refurbished lens is like-new in every way, and was a fantastic bargain!
Daniel
Originally posted at
2017-05-17T05:59:32
Rated 5 out of 5
Great Lens
Sharp lens with beautiful bokeh! My favorite focal length has always been 85mm, but bought this for shooting my kids sports. It's perfect!
ANNE M.
2017-04-09T20:00:00
Rated 5 out of 5
Yes! Best Lens Ever - For Sure :-
IF I could only bring one lens with me on a daily basis, this would be that one lens! I cannot say enough about this lens, you will not be disappointed with your purchase and the beautiful photographs and portraits you will capture. Watch on You Tube Canon 135 Lord of the Red Rings
LisaatTheCreek
Originally posted at
2017-02-19T19:00:00
Rated 5 out of 5
Now the best lens in my kit
I had this lens on my "bucket list" for some time now and recently bought it used from a local photographer. All the reviews and videos I've seen about this lens informed me that this was one of the best out there for creamy backgrounds and super sharp focus. Boy it does not disappoint! When you shoot this thing wide open the background melts into a dreamy swirl of color that allows the subject to really pop! I have several other Canon lenses, but when I want to isolate a subject and make the background a beautiful, creamy blur, this is the lens I reach for. I'm so glad I purchased this lens!
Cytography
Originally posted at
2017-01-25T13:53:33
Rated 5 out of 5
A Very Nice Telephoto Prime Lens
I bought this lens to go along with a new 5D IV. I'm a hobbyist, not a professional, but I'm very happy with the purchase. It seems to be completely sharp wide open. Autofocus is fast and accurate. I've mostly used it for portraits so far and I've been pleased with the results. I can't really compare it to any of the L series 70-200 telephoto zoom options, except to say that this lens sits in the middle of that range, gives you an extra stop, weighs less, fits in a smaller bag and costs 1/2 as much.
Wayne V.
2016-12-31T22:46:53
Rated 5 out of 5
Great Lens!
I've been using this on the C300 mark II instead of the 70-200 f2.8L. I love how much lighter it is and the Bokeh is gorgeous. It is also super sharp!
Zachary B.
2016-12-04T12:02:21
Rated 5 out of 5
Really everything I wanted in a manageable weighted lens that produces breathtaking pictures
All the reviews that speak about sharpness, and bokeh, are true. Really everything I wanted in a manageable weighted lens that produces breathtaking pictures. I went from producing mediocre soft pictures to really tack sharp beautiful pictures. It not me, it the lens. You will NOT be disappointed.
PERRY R.
2016-09-05T10:08:15
Rated 5 out of 5
I absolutely love this lens
I absolutely love this lens. Amazing clarity. I use a 70-200 f2.8 and a 24-70 f2.8 on a regular basis. I did not think I could find one I would like any better. This may be my new favorite lens!! Don't hesitate to buy one.
SARAH L.
2016-08-31T17:14:46
Rated 5 out of 5
Beautiful Compression
I am a 50mm lens kind of photographer, I love that perspective and being up close to the people I am photographing, but decided to add this lens to my bag to increase the variety of perspectives of the images I deliver and as a lens to use during low light wedding ceremonies as alternatives to my 70-200 f/2.8 in both cases which can get quite heavy after photographing for a while. So far I am very happy with the performance, quick focus and sharpness!
AMBER L.
2016-06-15T13:51:37
Rated 5 out of 5
Excellent alternative to the 200mm F2.0
I have often rented the 200mm F2.0 which is one of the best lenses I've ever used. This is a great alternative at a much more affordable price.
DALE B.
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Canon 135mm F/2L Specifications
General
General
Jump to...Brand
Canon
MPN
2520A004
Lens Series
Canon EF
Color
Black
Lens Type
Telephoto
Lens Mount
Canon EOS
Format Compatibility
Full Frame
Focus
Jump to...Focus Type
Auto Focus
Focusing Technology
N/A
Closest Focus Distance
36" / 91cm
Distance Information
N/A
Built-In Motor
N/A
Optics
Jump to...Focal Length
135mm
Angle Of View
18 deg.
35mm Equivalent Focal Length
Not Applicable
Coverage
N/A
Minimum Aperture
f/32
Maximum Aperture
f/2
Maximum Magnification
0.15x
Lens Coating
N/A
Aspherical Elements
N/A
ED Glass Elements
N/A
Filter Size
72mm
Construction
Jump to...Lens Elements / Groups
10 Elements / 8 Groups
Diaphragm Blades
8
Dimensions
3.2 x 4.4" (82.5 x 112.0mm)
Weight
26.4oz / 750g
Features
Jump to...Image Stabilization Type
None
Tripod Collar
Yes
Waterproof / Water Resistant
N/A
Dust Resistant
N/A
Other
Jump to...UPC Code
082966213328
14 Accessories for Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM Lens
- All Accessories (14)
- Filters (5)
- Bags & Cases (3)
- Lens Caps (3)
- Extended Warranty (3)
Tiffen 72mm Digital Pro SLR Filter Kit
$129.95
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Tiffen Photo Essentials Three Filter Kit, 72mm
$88.99
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Tiffen 72mm Digital Essentials Filter Kit
$41.94
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ProOPTIC Pro Digital 72mm Multi Coated UV Ultra Violet Filter
$13.95
Recommended
ProOPTIC Lens Wrap, 15in x 15in (400mm x 400mm), Black
$9.95
Recommended
Canon LP1219 Soft Lens Case
$34.95
Recommended
Canon CarePAK PLUS 2 Year Plan for Lenses (Up to $1000)
$44.99
Recommended
Canon CarePAK PLUS 3 Year Plan for Lenses (Up to $1000)
$61.99
Recommended
Canon PL-CB 72mm Circular Polarizer Glass Filter
$429.99
Canon LP816 Soft Lens Case
$28.95
Canon Lens Dust Cap E (Rear Lens Cap E)
$7.49
ProOPTIC 72mm Center Pinch Lens Cap
$4.50
About Canon 135mm F/2L
PRO REVIEW by Vanessa Joy, Wedding Photographer
"This lens is my secret weapon. The bokeh is as smooth as butter and you can't beat the price for a prime lens. "
3 Must-Have Lenses for a Wedding Videographer
Breathe Your Passion with Vanessa Joy
Ready to dive into some wedding video? Join Vanessa with her husband, expert videographer Rob Adams, as they chat about the lenses you need to video a wedding. Find out what lenses Rob likes to use for what situations and the “secret lens” that’s a real steal for the incredible quality it gives.
The fastest 135mm telephoto lens in its class. Ideal for indoor sports and portraits with background blur. Two UD-glass elements correct secondary spectrum for outstanding sharpness and color. Compatible with Extender EF 1.4x II and 2x II.
Canon 135mm F/2L Features
- The fastest 135mm telephoto lens in its class
- 1:2.0 maximum aperture
- 18 diagonal angle of view
- 0.9m / 3 ft. closest focusing distance
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Key Features
- The fastest 135mm telephoto lens in its class
- 1:2.0 maximum aperture
- 18 diagonal angle of view
- 0.9m / 3 ft. closest focusing distance
What's in the box:
- Front & Rear Lens Caps
- ET-78II Lens Hood
- LP1219 Lens Pouch
- Canon 1 Year Warranty
