| I chose this over the 24-70mm f/2.8 L lens |
This lens is one of the best general purpose, all-around lenses in Canon's lineup. In order of preference, here are the top 5 things that I love about this lens:
- sharp images
- very versatile range of focal lengths
- image stabilization
- constant f/4.0 aperture
- L lens build quality
Because of the quality glass that Canon puts into its L lens series, this lens takes some tack-sharp photos. The range of focal lengths is excellent for portraits, stills, some landscapes and architectural shots. The auto-focus is fast on all focal lengths. The image stabilization is huge -- it gives you up to 3 additional stops in aperture. This translates to action-stopping shutter speeds. The constant f/4.0 aperture means that you don't have to suffer a decrease in shutter speed as you zoom in on a subject, a problem with variable aperture zoom lenses. Although the f/4.0 is not as desirable as an f/2.8 for low-light situations, it is great in decent lighting. I have a Speedlite 580EX II, so the range of that flash works perfectly with this lens when the situation calls for a hot shoe flash. Finally, the build quality is top-notch. The auto-focus is quiet, the lens body is rugged, and the weather-seal is very effective.
I was debating between this lens and the Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8 L lens. Although I would have loved the 24-70mm's constant f/2.8, I found the lack of IS and the loss of 35mm in focal length to be a huge compromise. With the 3-stop gain using the IS on the 24-105mm, I get back more than the 24-70mm's f/2.8. For bokeh purposes, the 8-blade aperture of the 24-105mm is still very good, although there's no question that a wider opening would provide even more blur. The only thing that would be able to pry this lens away from me as my favorite all-around lens is if Canon came out with a 24-105mm L IS lens with a constant f/2.8. But then that would be a huge lens, and might start getting in the way of effective everyday use. Right now, this lens is the perfect size for my general-purpose needs.
Overall, I am tremendously satisfied with this lens. I may eventually still get the 24-70mm f/2.8 L, but might wait to see if Canon introduces that with IS first. |
5 Rating
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| Nice lens |
Awesome lens, delivered on time and in good condition. My only complaint is that the canon box is not sealed; so, anyone could handle it before it arrives.
I would like it even more if it was faster (2.8);but, it would surely be out of sight pricewise in that case. |
4 Rating
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| Not sure it is worth the extra money |
This is my first L lens and I upgraded from 28-135mm USM IS lens on my EOS 20D. While the pictures are sharp, I am seeing color differences bet. the old 28-135 and this lens and I am not sure I like this one better! The color/tint seems to be flatter.
Only thing I definitely see the improvement is the f/4 at 105 too which I couldn't get.
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3 Rating
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