Mark Ellington
Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM Telephoto Lens
Introduction
The Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM lens is a highly regarded telephoto lens manufactured by Canon, a leader in imaging technology. Designed for Canon SLR cameras, this lens is intended for photographers who seek high-quality portraits, stunning landscapes, and crisp action shots. With its impressive focal length and wide aperture, it stands out as a versatile tool for both professional and enthusiast photographers alike.
Appearance and Design
The Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM lens exudes a professional aesthetic, featuring a sleek black barrel with red and gold accents that are characteristic of Canon’s L-series lenses. The body is constructed from high-quality materials, providing a robust feel that ensures durability. A significant design feature is its compact size; despite being a telephoto lens, it remains lightweight and portable, making it an excellent choice for on-the-go photography. The lens incorporates a built-in hood which protects the glass and helps to reduce flare, adding a practical touch to its elegant design.
Key Features and Specifications
- Focal Length: 135mm
- Aperture: f/2, allowing for excellent low-light performance and beautiful bokeh
- Closest Focusing Distance: 3 feet
- Motor: Micro UltraSonic Motor (USM) for fast and silent autofocus
- Optical Elements: Ultra-low Dispersion glass with Fluorite elements to minimize chromatic aberration
- Mount: Canon EF mount
- Warranty: 90 days limited warranty
- Color: Black
- Release Date: October 12, 2018
User Experience
Using the Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM lens has been a rewarding experience across various photography scenarios. In portrait photography, the lens excels in producing sharp images with a stunningly smooth background blur, which enhances the subject’s features while isolating them from the background. The f/2 aperture is particularly beneficial in low-light settings, allowing for greater flexibility and creativity.
In landscape photography, the lens provides excellent color rendition and contrast, delivering stunning images that capture the beauty of nature. The lens’s fast autofocus capabilities make it suitable for capturing action shots, and the sharpness remains consistent even at wide apertures. Additionally, its close focusing distance allows for creative close-up shots, making it a versatile option for different styles of photography.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Exceptional image quality with sharpness and contrast
- Fast and silent autofocus thanks to the USM motor
- Lightweight and compact design for a telephoto lens
- Wide aperture for low-light performance and beautiful bokeh
- Durable construction typical of Canon’s L-series lenses
Cons
- Price may be considered high for amateur photographers
- Lack of image stabilization, which could be a drawback for handheld shooting in low light
- Fixed focal length may limit versatility compared to zoom lenses
Conclusion
Overall, the Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM lens is a renewed gem in the realm of SLR photography. It offers exceptional image quality, a fast and quiet autofocus system, and a professional build that appeals to serious photographers. While its price might be a hurdle for beginners, the investment pays off in the form of stunning images and reliable performance. For anyone looking to elevate their photography, especially in portrait and low-light scenarios, this lens is highly recommended.
