EF 70-200mm 2.8 L IS USM

[nkg]

User reviews welcomed.

[uksteve999]

I'm a newcomer or at least relatively so to photography, I dabbled years ago, so long ago that the only digital thing on the menu was 'do I really want a Sinclair Spectrum ?', but returning to the photography fold, mainly through the the compact digital route i've ended up firmly in the Canon camp, using a Canon 20D and a 5D. Progressing onward, as you do, I mulled over upgrades from a Tamron telephoto, very good as it was, to the realms of the L series, and this is now where I am.

I purchased the 70-200 f2.8 IS second hand, after scouring the market, at well less than half the list price, and am I glad I did.

It is without doubt the most useful, adaptable and I think flexible of all the telephoto lenses in the range, it's simply delightful to use, built like a tank, (it is a bit chunky and weighty), but now i'm used to it, I would'nt go for anything else.
It handles well, surprisingly for it's weight, especially when on the 5D, which helps balance it out a bit, and the results...stunning.
Due to the low f2.8, you can put on an extender, either the 1.4 or the 2, and the loss of stops is not too detracting, or should that be distracting ?, and the bonus...well the other camera is a 20D, so the crop factor in normal or extended is fantastic, the image stabilisation works a treat, saving many a photo from the erase button, particularly in lower light.

I did consider the f4 version, but decided that to get the usefulness and all round flexibility, the f2.8 was the way to go.

Canon describe the lens in glowing terms, and for once I totally agree with a manufacturers blurb.

Cost is a big factor for us non pro's, but if you shop wisely and can wait for the right one, I guarantee this lens will not disappoint !.

I'm not techy enough to give a full review, so this is more a recommendation than a review. If it helps you make a choice, it's done the job !