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Customers most agreed on the following attributes:
from Santa Clara on 3/1/2007
This is a truly awesome lens. Very sharp. Very fast. Excellent construction. I've owned this lens for over three years and never had a problem. Used it on Rebel, 20D and 30D and soon 1D Mk III.
[4 of 4 customers found this review helpful]
from Santa Clarita, CA on 2/25/2007
I bought this lens in May of 2006, and it immediately became my "always-on" lens. It's great for candids and portraits, compressing and isolating your subject with a beautifully blurred background. The images you get directly out of the camera are awesome. This lens produces great contrast and color, requiring less post-processing.A friend and I were hiking along side a waterfall/river and he had my lens in his backpack. He slipped on a rock and fell into the river. Luckily the lens didn't get wet, but it definitely felt some sort of impact from the fall, but it made it through with absolutely no problems. This beast of a lens is strong.The lens is pretty heavy, which can be a good or bad thing. I personally like the weight, it keeps my strap from moving on my shoulder. If you're going to be walking around a lot, you better be sure you are going to need this lens. I've taken it with me and left it in my bag, and it definitely weighs you down.The image stabilizer does exactly what it's supposed to. For static objects, mode 1 works like a charm. Mode 2 is for stabilization while panning with a moving object, like a car, or anything moving from one side to another. Mode 2 only enables vertical stabilization, allowing you to pan with your subject without the lens freaking out (if you are in mode 1, the lens will "snap" back and forth, trying to reduce horizontal movement). If you know which mode to use, and when to turn it off completely, you will get awesome results (stabilization doesn't work well with subjects that move around too much, it can actually make your shots blur sometimes).This lens is 2.8 all the time, at any focal length, which is rad. At 2.8, the depth of field is very shallow, so if sharpness is critical for your assignment, you probably want to shoot at 4 or smaller. This lens rocks with low light, i've taken shots at 2.8, 200mm, 1/15th and it is totally sharp. That's where the IS saves the day.Overall, I give this lens a 9/10. The lost point is for the shifty IS under certain circumstances, the weight, and the price (I got mine for [...]). Every pro should own this lens. There's no excuse not to.
Images shared by: Ben
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from mission viejo, ca on 2/20/2007
This is a great lens for versatility when taking portraits or for sports where you can get reasonably close to the action. Due to it's size and weight, however, I seldom travel with it.
from North Georgia on 2/13/2007
Pricey and heavy but I don't know how I made without it. I shoot weddings as a side line and during the ceremony most of the time there's just not enought light and I hate distracting with a flash. The large f2.8 aperature coupled with image stabalization really helps getting those once in a lifetime candids in such a situation and for the most part, shots turn out sharp enough to be very acceptable. I use it a lot for outdoor portrait work as well. Stopping down to about 3.5 gives a beautifuly soft background free of distractions and when you just don't have the light and want to shoot at a high f stop for depth of field, the stabalization works wonders for slower shutter speeds. The picture quality will simply blow you away.
I liked the image stabalization feature so well that I bought Canon's IS 2.8 24-50 lens. Though it's not an "L" series, pictures are really great.
I'd say buy this lens if you can afford it and want to shoot great, clear images in low light. Just be aware that its heaviness gets a little tiresome.
from Saginaw Michigan on 2/13/2007
This is great lens for low lights photography.
Images shared by: Rick5D,1/500 at 2.8,iso 3200,focal length 200mm
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from Seattle, WA on 2/13/2007
One of the sharpest, most beautiful lenses I own.
from Seattle WA on 2/13/2007
Outstanding lens for what it's for. It's heavy, it's too showy (not much to be done about that but there are times when it's just too big and white!) and it's not easy on the wallet. On the other hand, I can point to a thousand photos I simply could not have made without it. The image stabilization is superb, the optics almost flawless and it seems to be built like a tank.
from Las Vegas, NV on 2/13/2007
Appreciate the lens case and hood.
from Merrimack, NH on 2/12/2007
I've used it indoors in poor lighting situations where I needed the reach of this lens. I've used it outdoors to photograph a subject from a distance and still blur the background! I've used it with the 1.4x extender at outdoor sporting events and with the macro lens for macro photography. This is an overall excellent lens. Picture quality is superb from 70mm - 200mm. The IS is a necessity with this lens, I think, and it works well. My only complaint is that the lens is a beast, and you will not be inconspicuous when you point it at someone. However, people often assume I'm a professional photographer and are very receptive to getting their picture taken. I'll often put this lens in my "day trip" bag with the 24-70mm f2.8L with the 1.4x extender and the 580EX flash, and I feel like I'm ready for just about anything.
from Columbus, Ohio on 2/12/2007
Love it, if you can afford it you should buy this!!!!
from Kokomo, IN on 2/12/2007
It has been a great addition to my camera gear. I use it for capturing images of my kids playing sports. It lets you get great photos, but you will need a monopod because it is a bit heavy and can be a handful at times.
from Ohio on 2/12/2007
I use it for portraits, trips. Took it to Ireland, China, and HK. A little heavy but never regreted that extra weight.
from Antioch, Ca on 2/12/2007
Other than the weight and the long minimum focus length of 4 feet, this lens is almost perfect.
from Dawsonville, GA on 2/12/2007
This lens is a great addition to anyone's camera bag. It is fast and precise and the controls are much better than an earlier model 100-400mm L zoom I own. It's a very good midrange zoom and works well with a variety of subjects from flowers to large landscapes.
from Bay Area Ca. on 2/12/2007
I was reluctant to purchase this lens because of the price. I always seen professionals and Enthusiasts with this lens in there bag and need some fast glass for some sporting events I was shooting. As soon as I took it out of the box you could feel that the lens was solid and built to last. It wasn?t as heavy as I people make it out to be. I am able to use this lens all day hand held with out a tripod and not be sore at the end of the day. It feels well balanced on my 30D and the sharpness is up there with Prime lenses. The Bokeh is creamy and the colors are wonderful. The USM is smooth and silent. The ?IS? is quick and responsive. One of Canons best lenses. After using it a few times the money I spent on it was well worth it. If you?re a sports fan, or a photo journalist this is a must have in your camera bag.
from Holly, MI on 2/12/2007
Bought this lens specifically for use on an African safari. Used it alone as well as frequently with a 2x multiplier. In both instances the results were excellent. I found the clarity in low light shooting environments especially good--actually better than my medium zoom with the same stabalizing mechanism. As to the weight and size--I guess it's something that one has to accept as a trade-off in order to obtain the desired quality.
from Denver, CO on 2/12/2007
This is a great all around lens. With my camera EOS 20D and my old EOS10D I did not always like the 200mm shots in AF mode. However this was much better when using manual focus only at 200mm. The lens never gave me a problem and it is used in the field my usual subjects were trains. I also used the lens with a Canon 2x converter with the same fantastic results.
from Boise, ID. on 2/12/2007
I held off buying this lens due to price and the limited zoom range. I tried a Sigma 50-500 first. I should have spent the money on the Canon instead. Even with a 1.4x extender this lens is faster and sharper than the Sigma and the AF is extremely fast and accurate. If you're after wildlife this is a great lens to have in your basic lineup.
Images shared by: Bob McKainBighorn Ram in Yellowstone
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from Tenneessee on 2/12/2007
The color. The clarity. A rock steady capture that is razor sharp at any aperture. This is the best zoom lens for your Canon period. The 70-200 encompassses a range that is suitable from portraiture to short range birding. The f2.8 with IS means you can take that shot in the light available. I've used this lens with great success at weddings where it enables me to be unobtrusive yet take a viewpoint that puts me right in the middle. It is always in my bag no matter what kind of shooting I'm out for. It's that good.
from Milford, Ct on 2/12/2007
Great Lens, it is really worth the $$$. Great for indoor sports like basketball where the 2.8 is needed. I love this lens, don't tell your wife how much you paid for it! ;o)
from Los Angeles, CA on 2/12/2007
Excellent lens, never leave home without it. Might be a little heavy, but it doesn't bother me much. The image stabalizer helps out quite a lot.
from Bogot? - Colombia on 2/12/2007
Is a great lens for all works. With the 5D have excellent pictures. [...]
from Pittsburgh, PA on 2/12/2007
Worth every penny, Unbelievably sharp. IS permits hand holding down to 1/30 with exception results. Spend extra money for IS and f2.8, you will not regret. This lens is one of my favorite lens for tight shots. Highly recommend.
from Charlotte, NC on 2/12/2007
Great lens, especially for bokah at 2.8. While it is heavy, this is necessary for a quality lens. My only critique is the location of the auto focus - manual switch on the lens, which is easily bumped with your left hand. That said, I rely on this to give good separtion of subject from background for images that "pop." Combined with my 24-70 2.8, this covers most needs.
from Circle Pines, MN on 2/12/2007
If I could have only one lens, this would be it.
from Tampa, FL on 2/12/2007
This is the workhorse of my collection. I shoot paintball for a mag and this is the perfect lens to get the job done. It seems a little heavy at first, but after hauling a 300 2.8 around, this is a piece of cake. If you are looking to get your first "L" zoom, you just found it. This thing has been in the rain and shot up with paintballs and it's still SWEET!
from Metamora, IL on 2/11/2007
I use this lens at poorly-lighted high school football games throughout Central Illinois. It's a must-have for action in low light.
from Loma Rica, CA on 2/9/2007
A little heavy, but you can't make a lens that is this good and this sturdy until an element lighter than hydrogen is discovered. Works very well with Canon 1.4x and 2x telextenders. Same filter size (77mm) for this whole series of lenses a big plus.
from Commerce, Mi on 2/7/2007
Excellent lens for low light conditions - fast and sharp. Only complaint is that the lens locks up occasionally with my 20D - no resolution from Canon.
from Egremont, MA on 2/6/2007
I finally found the perfect lens for shooting hockey.
from [...] on 2/6/2007
Used it for a month in India photographing tigers from the back of an elephant. I got terrific shots and very sharp
from Sour Lake, TX on 2/5/2007
Very heavy lens, but is worth its weight in gold, for what I do. I probably do more dirt track auto racing events than anyone else in the USA, each year. It will see a LOT of use! I also have the 24-70 L Canon lens-not image stabilized. I recommend image stabilization, even for those who think they don't need it, like I used to.
Images shared by: RonThis is a 360 cu in Sprint Car, at full speed!!!
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from Boonville,Indiana on 2/5/2007
The EF 70-200mm f/2.8 is usm lens is great for shooting outdoor portraits.
The f/2.8 gives me the dept of field I'm looking for,while the 200mm keeps me from being on top of the client.I also like the fast auto focus.
from Atlanta on 2/5/2007
Fantastic lens. Built like a tank, super image quality and bokeh and image stabilization and 2.8 makes this lens ideal in existing light situations.
It is heavy and is definitely not discreet.
from The Hague, The Netherlands on 2/5/2007
This absolutly a excelent lens, there are no cons for me. Even the price is totally worth it!
Super sharpness, perfect fast and acurate AF,
perfect out-of-focus blur and super strong construction. I use the lens for paragliding photography, always out side and not always the best weather but the lens works great and is able to have that kind of 'abuse'.
Certainlley one of Canons best!
from Yuba City, CA on 2/5/2007
I would not hesitate to recommend this lense. The only negative thing I can think of is the weight when attach to the 1ds Mark II.
from Woodstock, Georgia on 2/5/2007
If I could only have one lens in my bag this would be the one. I have shot in venues such as concerts and sports that I could not have done without this lens. Some people might not like the weight. But if you want to run with the Big Dogs, you have to get off the pourch!If your serious about your Photography then this lens is a must have for you!
from San Francisco on 2/5/2007
Great Lens great results. Zoom lenses don't get any better than this one.
Images shared by: bsawleGolden Gate Bride at Day break
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from Dallas on 2/5/2007
This is a very fine lens. The quality of the optics are first rate and the construction excellent. When using a camera with more than 8 megapixels the ability to enlarge and crop and still maintain a razor sharp image is beyond expectations. Stongly recommend for serious photographers.
from Ft. Lauderdale Florida on 2/5/2007
This lens is great for capturing those long distant shot while maintaining exceptional clarity.
from Marbella,Spain on 2/5/2007
Top product. Heavy, specially with the X1,4 multiplier on it, but when you see the results, who cares ! You take it everywhere !
from Lansing, MI on 2/5/2007
I was a little hesitent to spend that much money on a camera lens. It has turned out to be a great purchase. I have recommended the lens to numerous friends.
from far rockaway,ny on 2/5/2007
just a bit bulky/heavy for me. i am a female whose hobby is photography and would love to use it more often but find it too heavy....
from Mount Union, PA on 2/5/2007
Photos from this lens are better than I expected; possibly because of the Image Stabilization. It's a bit heavy, but using it is better than carrying extra lenses.
from TERRACE, B.C. Canada on 2/5/2007
I also use a Canon EF 100-400 F4.5-5.6L IS USM lens. I prefer this lens, simply because it has the longer reach. That being said, when you use the EF 70-200 F2.8L IS USM - it is a pleasant reminder just how fast and sharp the optics are for this lens. It is a perfect lens when you use it within the telephoto range that it is built for. The colour dynamics and rendition off the "L" glass are stunning.
Images shared by: Bob PetrasCandid shooting
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from Idaho on 12/3/2006
Being an amatuer photographer, you've got to be pretty serious about your hobby to spend this kind of money, but the results are amazing. The resolution that this lens provides is so good, it's close to three-dimensional! I've used this lens with Canon's D60 and 20D digital camera bodies with astounding results. The lens is large, heavy, and it does get noticed, but the quality and solidness far outweight these issues. It depends on your shooting, but for me, if I could only afford one lens, this would be it.
[2 of 2 customers found this review helpful]
You get what you pay for and this is worth every penny. "L" series all the way through. Great contrast, great bokeh and fast. Even with the Extender II 1.4, the contrast and clarity remains excellent.
This is a big lens that gives big results. It works as advertised and is worth the extra weight.
[1 of 1 customers found this review helpful]
from Bay area, CA on 11/13/2006
Very high quality lens! Excellent Images! Very sharp! The image stabilization works as advertised.
The uses of it will be further enhanced by a future purchase of a canon 1.4X extender.
The cons are that it is bulky and very heavy.
[...]
[11 of 13 customers found this review helpful]
By far the crown jewell of my small lens collection. It is equally at home catching fast action or low light conditions. Other than the everyday type of shooting, I try to use this lens any time I can. People may look at you funny when you use it only 10ft from them, but the shots you get up close and far away are excellent. The image stabilizer and fast optics make this a must have for any serious or semi-serious photographer.
[17 of 18 customers found this review helpful]
from Wichita, KS on 8/20/2006
This lense is amazing! The f-stop and image stabilization makes it a PERFECT lens for shooting weddings! The controls are easy, the lens is a little heavy, but I still don't need a tripod or monopod to get great crisp shots! A+