Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM Lens for Canon EOS SLR Cameras

Product Features

* 70-300mm telephoto zoom lens with f/4-5.6 maximum aperture for Canon EOS SLR cameras
* 3-stop Image Stabilizer for reducing camera shake; ring-type ultra-sonic monitor (USM)
* Electro-magnetic diaphragm (EMD) helps create attractive background at large apertures
* Super Spectra lens coating and lens element shaping suppresses flare and ghosting
* Measures 3 inches in diameter and 5.6 inches long; weighs 22.2 ounces; 1-year warranty

Technical Details

* Brand Name: Canon
* Model: 0345B002
* Lens Type: Zoom lens
* Mounting Type: Canon EF
* Minimum focal length: 70 millimeters
* Maximum focal length: 300 millimeters
* Minimum Focal Range: 5 feet
* Maximum Aperture Range: F/4.0-5.6
* Camera Magnify Power: 0.26
* Lens System Special Functions: Zoom
* Focus Type: auto-focus, manual-focus
* Real Angle Of View: 34
* Weight: 1.81 pounds
* Item Display Diameter: 3 inches
* Length: 6 inches

Product Description
EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM telephoto zoom lens * Image Stabilization allows in-focus shots with longer exposure times (up to three stops slower shutter speed) * Micro Ultrasonic Motor for fast autofocus * compatible with all Canon EOS SLR cameras * minimum focus distance: 4.9 feet * lens is 5-13/16" long, 3" in diameter *

Quite happy with the lens, March 21, 2006

After debating between this and the 70-200 L series I decided to purchase this lens. I have been pleasantly surprised by the results. I also own the 17-85 and the 50mm 1.8 lenses and I have found that I have gotten the "most pleasing" results from this lens. The pictures have been very sharp from my 20D - even in the 200mm - 300mm range. I've also been happy with the quality of the bokeh.

The primary drawback I see is that the AF tends to hunt a fair amount when confronted with low contrast images. That being said, I used it for some flying bird shooting at the wildlife refuge and was surprised to see how many of the shots were in sharp focus. However, it was a little bit of all or nothing. Several shots were also wildly out of focus. Since the lens is fairly slow to focus, you never know what you're gonna get with such a fast moving object against the distant sky.

I had much more consistent results when shooting soccer, softball and football in the park. The AF speed did not present an issue for any of these activities and the results were excellent.

I wish the lens were a little less expensive but I the prints I have gotten from my 13 X 19 printer have been worth the extra money.
By pveman (New York)