27 Mar 2012

»
»
»Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS USM Lens Review

Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS USM Lens Review


The Canon 100-400mm f/4.5-5/6 “L series” telephoto zoom lens is one of the most popular lenses for sports and wildlife photography applications. The combination of Canon’s top-of-the-line “L series” optics, image stabilization for low light shooting, a revolutionary push/pull zoom mechanism and exemplary Canon build quality make this lens a constant high level performer. The 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 produces excellent results at f/8 and at any aperture in the mid range of the lens.
Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS USM Lens
Moreover, this lens produces exceptional color and contrast throughout its entire range, often outperforming other telephoto lenses that cover similar focal length ranges. The 100-400mm telephoto lens also has the longest focal length range in the Canon lineup, allowing for extreme versatility and producing excellent results over a wide range of photographic applications and styles.

Professionals and amateurs alike add the Canon 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 to their collection due to its ability to perform well in action, wildlife, landscapes, and portrait shooting situations. It is frequently found on the “must have” lens recommendation lists of professionals.

Canon 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L Features
  • Telephoto Zoom Lens
  • Focal length : 100-400mm
  • Maximum aperture : f/4.5
  • Filter Size : 77mm
  • Optics : 17 Elements in 14 Groups Canon Micro UltraSonic Motor (USM) provides fast and accurate focusing. Image Stabilization for sharp images in low light conditions
  • Weight : 1380g
  • Canon EF Mount
What Users Like About This Lens
Most photographers agree that the Canon 100-400mm “L series” telephoto zoom lens outperforms other telephoto lenses of similar focal length ranges. Furthermore, the Canon 100-400mm telephoto often comes at a more reasonable price than similar lenses. Photographers also notice excellent sharpness, color and contrast in the mid-ranges of this lens. Overall, the 100-400mm is a consistent high performer that produces professional results in an attractive, versatile package. As such, it makes its way into the kits of many professional and amateur photographers.

What Users Don’t Like About This Lens
Some photographers feel that the autofocus is slow. Additionally, photographers have noticed that the 100-400mm occasionally has trouble focusing in low contrast shooting situations. One build element of this lens, the push/pull zoom system, seems to cause some problems as well. Over time, many photographers claim that the push/pull zoom mechanism wears out and “binds up.” Canon has noted that regular maintenance, lens servicing and proper lens care can prevent push/pull mechanism deterioration.

Also related to the push/pull feature of the 100-400 is the issue of dust. Many photographers have observed that the zoom feature allows dust to enter the body of the lens, over time creating image sharpness problems and damage to lens optics. Regular servicing and maintenance can also solve this problem.

Source : http://www.digitalphotographygear.com