Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM Lens Review

Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM Sample Photos

Shooting at f/2.8 is not an issue with this lens, even at the minimum focus distance of two metres | 1/250 sec | f/2.8 | 300.0 mm | ISO 160 High-Res	Stopped down to f/8, this lens delivers outstanding sharpness | 1/500 sec | f/8.0 | 300.0 mm | ISO 100 High-Res
Focusing is blisteringly fast and even erratic subjects aren't a problem | 1/320 sec | f/4.0 | 300.0 mm | ISO 400 High-Res	The sub-wavelength coatings maintain contrast, even when shooting into the light | 1/400 sec | f/8.0 | 300.0 mm | ISO 100 High-Res
1/250 sec | f/7.1 | 300.0 mm | ISO 320 High-Res	1/320 sec | f/11.0 | 300.0 mm | ISO 400 High-Res
1/320 sec | f/4.0 | 300.0 mm | ISO 2500 High-Res	1/250 sec | f/8.0 | 300.0 mm | ISO 500 High-Res

Value for Money

This lens certainly won't be turning up in the bargain bucket at your local camera store any time soon. Priced at around £5500, this is a serious piece of professional equipment, built for those who can't afford to compromise.

Those who can afford to compromise may wish to look at Canon's 300mm f/4L IS, which can be picked up for a much more reasonable price of around £1100. Although this lens is a stop slower, lacks IS mode 3 and the power focus features of the lens reviewed here, it should still provide excellent sharpness for a much lower price.

Sigma currently offer a few lenses that may be of interest for those looking for a fast 300mm lens. Their 300mm f/2.8 EX DG HSM seems a bargain by comparison, as it is available for around £2180. If the added flexibility of a zoom appeals, then Sigma's 120-300mm F/2.8 OS EX DG HSM may also be on your shopping list. It is also substantially cheaper at around £1900.

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