Mark Ellington
Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM Telephoto Lens
Introduction
The Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM Lens is a high-performance telephoto lens designed for Canon SLR cameras. Manufactured by Canon, a leader in imaging technology, this lens is ideal for portrait, event, and low-light photography, providing photographers with the tools they need to unleash their creativity.
Product Overview
This lens features a fixed focal length of 135mm, making it an excellent choice for capturing stunning portraits with beautiful bokeh. Its wide f/2 maximum aperture allows for great performance in low lighting and provides shallow depth of field effects. The lens is crafted from high-quality materials to ensure durability and performance.
Appearance and Design
The Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM lens sports a sleek black finish that is both professional and understated. Its solid construction utilizes high-quality materials, including ultra-low dispersion glass and fluorite elements, which contribute to the lens’s exceptional optical performance. The lens features a unique inner focusing mechanism that allows for quicker and quieter autofocus, thanks to the Micro UltraSonic Motor (USM).
Key Features and Specifications
- Focal Length: 135mm
- Maximum Aperture: f/2
- Closest Focusing Distance: 3 feet
- Lens Construction: 10 elements in 8 groups
- Ultra-low Dispersion glass with Fluorite elements
- EF mount compatible with Canon SLR cameras
- Micro USM for fast and silent autofocus
- Color: Black
- Part Number: 2520A004
- Warranty: 1 year coverage for parts
- Release Date: May 2, 2006
Experience with the Product
Using the Canon EF 135mm f/2L in various scenarios has been a delight. In portrait sessions, the lens excels in creating beautifully blurred backgrounds, allowing subjects to pop in the frame. The sharpness of the images is remarkable, with details captured crisply even at wide apertures. In low-light situations, the lens performs admirably, maintaining clarity without significant noise, which is crucial for event photography.
Additionally, the autofocus system is impressively quick and accurate, enabling seamless shooting during dynamic moments. Whether shooting weddings or intimate portraits, this lens consistently delivers outstanding results.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional image quality with stunning sharpness
- Wide f/2 aperture for low-light performance and beautiful bokeh
- Fast and quiet autofocus with USM technology
- Durable and robust construction
- Ideal for portraits and event photography
Cons:
- Fixed focal length may limit versatility in certain situations
- Higher price point compared to other telephoto lenses
- No image stabilization feature, which may be a drawback for handheld shooting
Conclusion
Overall, the Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM Lens is an outstanding choice for photographers seeking a high-quality telephoto lens that excels in portraiture and low-light conditions. Its exceptional sharpness, quick autofocus, and beautiful aesthetics make it a valuable addition to any Canon SLR camera kit. While its price may be on the higher side, the investment is justified by the quality and performance it delivers. For those serious about their photography, this lens opens the door to creative possibilities.
