CANON EF 70-200 F/2.8L IS II USM

CANON MAKES THE BEST EVEN BETTER

One of the most popular lens with pros and amateurs alike kicks off the new year with an under the radar announcement and a loud bang for photographers.

No doubt the EF 70-200 f/2.8L IS II USM is the choice for the new 4 stop Image Stabilizer. If Canon’s quality control is up to standards the new re-designed optical system, consisting of 23 elements in 19 groups should deliver impressive results. But, according to Canon’s MTF chart, the 70mm end is a bit week. Then again, purchase of this lens will not amount to too much usage on the low end of the zoom.

The main differences between the EF 70-200 f/2.8L IS II and f/4L IS are 2 full stops of light and a very big difference in price point. At present the EF 70-200 f/4L IS USM goes for USD1,349.00. As of this press release there is still no official price for the new f/2.8L IS II but there are rumors around the net pointing towards USD2,500.00 and that translates to a whopping PHP118,00.00.

An events and wildlife shooter will have the most advantage when it gets dark with the f/2.8L IS II. But, if shooting in daylight is a regular occurrence then the f/4L IS would do just fine for just PHP65,00.00. The Image Stabilizer on the recent f/4L gives a 4 stop advantage as well on all focal lengths and this, IMHO, is just right for most photographers.

In real world shooting applications, the charts and specs on paper wouldn’t mean anything. These are only reference guides to help make a purchasing decision. Canon L lenses are the best out there but do buy what you need and can afford. A photographer just needs to find his/her shooting style to choose the right lens.

The EF 70-200 f/2.8L IS II USM comes with the newly designed lens hood ET-87 and ring type tripod collar.

The enhanced magnesium alloy barrel design of the EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens features added strength with a minimal 20-gram increase in weight compared with the previous model (1490g vs. 1470g) and retains Canon’s protective seals and fittings providing dust and water resistance for those photographers working in adverse conditions. A new bayonet mount on the front of the lens includes a locking mechanism to ensure the supplied lens hood remains securely in place. Other noticeable improvements include a wider focusing ring, and sleeker design by reducing the thickness of any protruding elements such as the switch panel. The new lens is also compatible with Canon’s existing EF1.4X II and EF2X II Extenders as well as EF Extension Tubes and the 77mm Close-Up Lens 500D.