The Zeiss Makro-Planar T* 100mm f/2 ZE Lens for Canon EF Mount EOS DSLR cameras has superior quality optics, combining sharp macro performance and a very fast maximum aperture. A 'floating element' optical system enables the Makro-Planar T* to deliver superior quality images even at f/2, from infinity to the close-focus (1.4', 0.44 m) distance. Users can employ selective focusing on important details with the clarity required for close-up photography, effectively isolating the subject from distracting surroundings. Applications for this lens making this lens is ideal for use in a wide variety of shooting scenarios including, but not limited to, industrial, scientific, nature, and product photography applications. Its superior and unique image quality also makes it a great choice for portraits.
| Performance | |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | 100 mm |
| Aperture |
Maximum: f/2.0 Minimum: f/22 |
| Camera Mount Type | Canon EF |
| Format Compatibility |
35mm Film / Full-Frame Digital Sensor Canon (APS-C) |
| Angle of View | 25° |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 1.44' (44 cm) |
| Magnification | 0.5x |
| Maximum Reproduction Ratio | 1:2 |
| Groups/Elements | 8/9 |
| Diaphragm Blades | 9 |
| Features | |
|---|---|
| Image Stabilization | No |
| Autofocus | No |
| Tripod Collar | No |
| Physical | |
|---|---|
| Filter Thread | 67 mm |
| Dimensions (DxL) | Approx. 2.99 x 4.45" (7.59 x 11.30 cm) |
| Weight | 1.50 lb (680 g) |
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Reviewed by 39 customers
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Comments about Zeiss Makro-Planar T* 100mm f/2 ZE Lens for Canon EF Mount EOS DSLR Cameras:
This lens really is awesome. I will have to agree with all the great reviews about this lens. This is the third Ziess lens I have bought and they all are great. The macro is superb both for stills and video. You can isolate a very small sliver with razer sharp detail while evrything else just dissolves to pure butterscotch. And the best thing is that is not at all sterile or clinical. It makes me say "WOW" everytime. Great for isolating objects and sort of freezing them in an almost 3D way in space. If you are using it as a 100m lens not for macro or narrow depth of field it shines here also. The image quality is crisp and clear with amazing depth and color. I personally am investing in the Ziess lenses because I like the feel of working with these high quality manual focus lenses. It is an investment but the build quality is just excellent. If taken care of these should last a lifetime. This is a substatial lens and it is heavy and long with the lens hood on and fully extended. One thing to keep in mind is that it does extend as you focus toward the macro range so it tricky using with a follow focus. It can be done though.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Zeiss Makro-Planar T* 100mm f/2 ZE Lens for Canon EF Mount EOS DSLR Cameras:
Seems to be my sharpest lens. Great for macro and landscape work, it matches the quality of the rest of the Zeiss EOS lenses - it even seems to be the best of the lot, but I haven't performed rigorous side-by-side tests. Very smooth, quiet focus pull. Warning: this lens can be much longer than it looks in the product shot, depending on how close you're focusing. VERY long focus throw.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Zeiss Makro-Planar T* 100mm f/2 ZE Lens for Canon EF Mount EOS DSLR Cameras:
It was a big dilemma for me to buy this lens especially because of it price as the close contender EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM Lens also has excellent reviews and feedback at less than half the price. After doing some research it became even more difficult to make the decision but quality was one thing that i didnt want to compromise with this time. We spend reasonable amount of money to buy reasonably good equipment but if we are seriously enough soon we realize the limitations or feel not fully satisfied with the results. I didnt want to be there again and bought this lens.
When the lens arrived, just looking at the packaging, personally signed quality control slip i felt that this was a special piece of equipment and when i took it out and held in my hands, i couldnt stop admiring at its simplicity, strong built and just the sheer weight of it which showed substance.
Having used it several times now in different light conditions and settings, few things i would like to point out from my experience which may help you to make the right decision.
- It only has manual focus. I love the manual focus as i feel more connected to this art of photography as old times but sometimes i absolutely miss the autofocus. My eyes have little number, not high enough to wear glasses or contacts, but enough to bother me while i am trying to focus manually especially in low light even after i adjust the diopter settings in the viewfinder. Something worth considering.
- It has 350deg manual focusing rotation as opposed to 157deg for the canon. This, one must carefully consider. On one hand it allows you for a very precise focus but also there are high chances of missing the focus on the subject you want as it is so precise and changes with minute increments. It also takes more effort and time to focus between both range. i still have to get used to it.
- Quality of images that this lens produces is something that makes me fall in love with this lens everytime i look at the results. Absolutely satisfied with what it does and what i expected. I have used it in extremely low light almost dark to see things with your naked eyes but this lens has given me excellent results hand held at f/2.0
For once i thought i should return this and get the canon lens but just can't part with it. The softness, bokeh, color rendition are all so special. there is something magical about the way it handles light and contrast. i am super happy with it and would recommend it if you value quality and can afford it.
For your additonal info i am using it with 5D MkII. Other lenses i have are 16-35mm f/2.8L, 70-200mm F/4L and 50mm f/1.4. Most of my equipment has been purchased from B&H and it has always been a happy experience. Quality of their equipments, their service is exceptional. I can trust them blindfolded.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Zeiss Makro-Planar T* 100mm f/2 ZE Lens for Canon EF Mount EOS DSLR Cameras:
Great lens for Canon DSLR. Only issue is fine manual focus with Canon 5DMK3 since the focus screen is not fixed and currently not interchangeable. Difficult to view depth of field which is most important with macro use. Solid build quality and fantastic image results when you get it right. Much easier to hand hold and use than Canon 180mm macro.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Zeiss Makro-Planar T* 100mm f/2 ZE Lens for Canon EF Mount EOS DSLR Cameras:
I'm very impressed with this lens and IQ - sharpness, color redention, bokeh, etc... - it produces even better my Canon 85 1.2L that I just sold, :).
I purchased this lens after read a lot of online reviews and specifically after read Ana-Maria review on B&H website vs the lens I already own the Canon 70-200 F2.8 IS II. I thought this Canon 70-200 zoom lens is Canon top product line that can produce IQ equivalents to Canon prime lens. However, after two months of shooting serial of pictures side by side of this Zeiss 100mm f/2 ZE lens vs Canon lens - 85mm F1.2 L, 24-70 F2.8 L, and 70-200 F2.8 IS II. I really want to part the Canon 200 F2.8 IS II after already parted the Canon 85mm F1.2 L and 24-70mm F2.8 L if the Zeiss is auto focus and zoom. I do need to keep the Canon 200 F2.8 IS II just because of zoom lens and auto focus when I need these features during my shooting session. Other than that, the Zeiss is always on my camera. Oh, I just bought the Zeiss 50mm Macro and Distagon 21mm as well and sold my Canon 24-70 F2.8 IS L lens.
I wish Zeiss will make auto focus on Canon body like they do produce lens for using on Sony body.
I'm getting better and better in term of using manual focus Zeiss lens days after days. Hopefully one day, I can skill up this manually lens as fast as auto focus lens, LOL!!!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Zeiss Makro-Planar T* 100mm f/2 ZE Lens for Canon EF Mount EOS DSLR Cameras:
I'm very pleased with the overall performance of this lens. I had a few reservations about moving to manual focus lenses, and while I will still keep a few auto-focus ones, the three Zeiss lenses I now have are my go-to lenses unless I absolutely need speed of focus.
I've been using the 100mm for general photography where background separation and bokeh are important to me (flowers, trees and specific scenery). The colors and sharpness of the lens are amazing - much sharper than the other Canon lenses I have including the 35L and the 70-200 II IS. The only Canon lens that is as nice is the 85 1.2L.
Built quality is great - it is a heavy lens, but balances well with both a 1D body and also a gripped 50D. The focus ring has quite a bit of travel, so focus can take a little time but tends to be precise. I haven't had a problem focusing using the focus confirmation in the camera, but can see where an upgraded focus screen would help.
Overall, fantastic lens. I would put the Canon 85 1.2L and the Zeiss 100mm f/2 MP as my two favorite lens in terms of build quality, sharpness, and color.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Zeiss Makro-Planar T* 100mm f/2 ZE Lens for Canon EF Mount EOS DSLR Cameras:
best macro ir a canon camera
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Zeiss Makro-Planar T* 100mm f/2 ZE Lens for Canon EF Mount EOS DSLR Cameras:
I've been a professional photographer for over 30 years. Many, many years ago I worked with Contax cameras and Zeiss lenses. Then Hasselblads with Zeiss lenses. Converting to digital, I began with Canon and their line-up of prime and zoom lenses. I would rent Zeiss lenses when the client demands dictated the selection. Nothing wrong with the Canon primes but there is a huge difference in the "thumbprint" of Zeiss and Canon. I finally purchased the Zeiss 21 and 100 and never looked back. Great optics!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Zeiss Makro-Planar T* 100mm f/2 ZE Lens for Canon EF Mount EOS DSLR Cameras:
This is the most amazing lens that I have ever held in my hands. The Zeiss "look" is worth every penny. The micro contrast is like nothing I have ever seen before. I really can't explain all the reasons why this lens is so great. I displayed pics taken with this lens on a 48 inch TV and my husband's reaction was "wow, I feel like I am really in the woods right now". I also put up pics taken with a Canon 100mm 2.8 L IS macro and the difference was very clear. The Canon 100mm L is a wonderful lens and I do enjoy using it, but the Zeiss 100 is something special. I do not ever foresee myself selling this lens.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Zeiss Makro-Planar T* 100mm f/2 ZE Lens for Canon EF Mount EOS DSLR Cameras:
I will be using it for videos and photoshoot.
Love the depth of field, amazing for cinematic video.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Zeiss Makro-Planar T* 100mm f/2 ZE Lens for Canon EF Mount EOS DSLR Cameras:
It's truly the Best Lens I've ever own in my life! I did a lot of research before I made my mind to purchase such an expensive lens. It has a beautiful bokeh, no distortion, colors in the image are much more rich than Canon's, ring on the lens is very smooth, etc. I'm still debating if I should exchange it for canon 70-200 f/2.8 is usm since it's a great lens for weddings. I rent canon 70-200 every time I do a wedding. Zeiss 2/100 is great for portrait, landscape & macro photography - three in one! It's a hard decision for me to make, but I can only buy one in a time.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Zeiss Makro-Planar T* 100mm f/2 ZE Lens for Canon EF Mount EOS DSLR Cameras:
This is a great lens for getting extreme close up shots. Very beautiful, very cinematic for video. What's not to like?
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Zeiss Makro-Planar T* 100mm f/2 ZE Lens for Canon EF Mount EOS DSLR Cameras:
I am a macro photographer and already have the 100mm macro 2.8L II. I have to say, The Zeiss 100mm is the best. F2.0 clear and awesome sharpness. Very good for portraits to.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Zeiss Makro-Planar T* 100mm f/2 ZE Lens for Canon EF Mount EOS DSLR Cameras:
Excellent lens. Very sharp,nice bokeh,excellent manual focus but unfortunately no auto focus,so very poor for taking photos of bees.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Zeiss Makro-Planar T* 100mm f/2 ZE Lens for Canon EF Mount EOS DSLR Cameras:
On the Canon 5D this lens takes some getting used too but only because the canon focus indicator is not completely accurate with this combination. Once you find the sweet spot this lens is incredibly detailed. If you're dead on with focus you can crop to the point of seeing the every detail of every individual pore on someone's face, not that you would want to. You can get extremely close to people and objects. While not a true Macro, this lens has amazing versatility. The colors produced are lovely and accurate, albeit a bit warm. Age wise and equipment wise I am old school so having an all metal, beautifully machined, manual lens has not bothered me at all. P.S., the results are anything but old school.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Zeiss Makro-Planar T* 100mm f/2 ZE Lens for Canon EF Mount EOS DSLR Cameras:
The 100mmf2 macro is an awesome lens.
It is a manual focus lens and I love it.
No auto focus - no computer -like the old days - just you.
It is absolutely great at everything you photograph - near, far and up-close (macro) are all excellent. Edge to edge sharpness is superior.
I use it as a walk about lens for landscape, city/urban and portrait The colors captured with this lens are amazing and accurate.
I have used the Zeiss 160, 80 and 50CF lenses with my Hassleblad 500CM and have always thought there was nothing better until I bought the 100f2. IMO - it's one of the best lenses on the planet.
Moderate weight, razor sharpness, awesome color.
What isn't there to like about this lens?
Said another way the only regret you will have with this lens is that you didn't buy it sooner!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Zeiss Makro-Planar T* 100mm f/2 ZE Lens for Canon EF Mount EOS DSLR Cameras:
This lens is simply in a class of its own. The macro shots i get from this rich in detail, shot wide open, with just the most inspiring bokeh. Get it if you can...
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Zeiss Makro-Planar T* 100mm f/2 ZE Lens for Canon EF Mount EOS DSLR Cameras:
I don't normally write reviews of any kind, but if you are reading this then I assume you are considering buying this lens. I read the reviews, but never trusted them in the past; I went onto google and check out images taken with this lens. I will recommend you do the same. [type in the lens's name and click on images].
They all looked very good yet; I was not convinced till I came to the coin photograph. It was a comparison between this lens and a canon L. The Zeiss was far superior.
I have read so much about it, that when I opened he box; I carried it like a little baby. A few shots round the bedroom in low light was unbelievable. I must have clicked camera buttons over 200,000 times, but when I looked at the first image that jumped off this lens in the dimly lit bedroom in Orlando. I could not believe it. I said this is not possible; I had to jump off the bed, go round the house taking pictures. The results were amazing.
The next day I got on my bike; yes a stupid thing to do; knowing how expensive the lens was; but I knew there is no way on earth this baby will drop. I took many pictures around the neighbourhood; they were all stunning. Yes, all.
The lens is so easy to use; focus at infinity, if you aren't sure for the first few times you uses it; this is a no brainer; then you can adjust depending on what you need to be in focus. At macro level; it is better to place it on a tripod; the bokeh is beautiful.
It will bring a new dimension to your photography be it landscape, portraits or macro. This is not one of the best lenses in the world no matter what you hear. This is the best lens in the world. Nothing compares to it - a sheer beauty of pure glass.
I shot some video on a DSLR with it too; it is amazing. This lens alone is pulling me into the world of video/cinema – it is that good.
I think is the only lens if only one remained in the world; it could be sold with the slogan – 'if you do not like it, return and we will give you double your money back'. There will be no takers; mine has not left my side since the day I bought it.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Zeiss Makro-Planar T* 100mm f/2 ZE Lens for Canon EF Mount EOS DSLR Cameras:
A perfect portrait lens. No distortion side to side. Great color.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Zeiss Makro-Planar T* 100mm f/2 ZE Lens for Canon EF Mount EOS DSLR Cameras:
I've just began to use this "bad boy". Anyone tells you a lens will not make a difference, tell them to tryout a Craig lens and stand back.
So far the clarity, definition etc etc etc is beyond belief, this is my second CZ and so far it super exceeds expectations.
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviewsPros
Cons
Best Uses
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 39 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-20
Previous | Next »
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Zeiss Makro-Planar T* 100mm f/2 ZE Lens for Canon EF Mount EOS DSLR Cameras:
This lens really is awesome. I will have to agree with all the great reviews about this lens. This is the third Ziess lens I have bought and they all are great. The macro is superb both for stills and video. You can isolate a very small sliver with razer sharp detail while evrything else just dissolves to pure butterscotch. And the best thing is that is not at all sterile or clinical. It makes me say "WOW" everytime. Great for isolating objects and sort of freezing them in an almost 3D way in space. If you are using it as a 100m lens not for macro or narrow depth of field it shines here also. The image quality is crisp and clear with amazing depth and color. I personally am investing in the Ziess lenses because I like the feel of working with these high quality manual focus lenses. It is an investment but the build quality is just excellent. If taken care of these should last a lifetime. This is a substatial lens and it is heavy and long with the lens hood on and fully extended. One thing to keep in mind is that it does extend as you focus toward the macro range so it tricky using with a follow focus. It can be done though.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Zeiss Makro-Planar T* 100mm f/2 ZE Lens for Canon EF Mount EOS DSLR Cameras:
Seems to be my sharpest lens. Great for macro and landscape work, it matches the quality of the rest of the Zeiss EOS lenses - it even seems to be the best of the lot, but I haven't performed rigorous side-by-side tests. Very smooth, quiet focus pull. Warning: this lens can be much longer than it looks in the product shot, depending on how close you're focusing. VERY long focus throw.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Zeiss Makro-Planar T* 100mm f/2 ZE Lens for Canon EF Mount EOS DSLR Cameras:
It was a big dilemma for me to buy this lens especially because of it price as the close contender EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM Lens also has excellent reviews and feedback at less than half the price. After doing some research it became even more difficult to make the decision but quality was one thing that i didnt want to compromise with this time. We spend reasonable amount of money to buy reasonably good equipment but if we are seriously enough soon we realize the limitations or feel not fully satisfied with the results. I didnt want to be there again and bought this lens.
When the lens arrived, just looking at the packaging, personally signed quality control slip i felt that this was a special piece of equipment and when i took it out and held in my hands, i couldnt stop admiring at its simplicity, strong built and just the sheer weight of it which showed substance.
Having used it several times now in different light conditions and settings, few things i would like to point out from my experience which may help you to make the right decision.
- It only has manual focus. I love the manual focus as i feel more connected to this art of photography as old times but sometimes i absolutely miss the autofocus. My eyes have little number, not high enough to wear glasses or contacts, but enough to bother me while i am trying to focus manually especially in low light even after i adjust the diopter settings in the viewfinder. Something worth considering.
- It has 350deg manual focusing rotation as opposed to 157deg for the canon. This, one must carefully consider. On one hand it allows you for a very precise focus but also there are high chances of missing the focus on the subject you want as it is so precise and changes with minute increments. It also takes more effort and time to focus between both range. i still have to get used to it.
- Quality of images that this lens produces is something that makes me fall in love with this lens everytime i look at the results. Absolutely satisfied with what it does and what i expected. I have used it in extremely low light almost dark to see things with your naked eyes but this lens has given me excellent results hand held at f/2.0
For once i thought i should return this and get the canon lens but just can't part with it. The softness, bokeh, color rendition are all so special. there is something magical about the way it handles light and contrast. i am super happy with it and would recommend it if you value quality and can afford it.
For your additonal info i am using it with 5D MkII. Other lenses i have are 16-35mm f/2.8L, 70-200mm F/4L and 50mm f/1.4. Most of my equipment has been purchased from B&H and it has always been a happy experience. Quality of their equipments, their service is exceptional. I can trust them blindfolded.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Zeiss Makro-Planar T* 100mm f/2 ZE Lens for Canon EF Mount EOS DSLR Cameras:
Great lens for Canon DSLR. Only issue is fine manual focus with Canon 5DMK3 since the focus screen is not fixed and currently not interchangeable. Difficult to view depth of field which is most important with macro use. Solid build quality and fantastic image results when you get it right. Much easier to hand hold and use than Canon 180mm macro.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Zeiss Makro-Planar T* 100mm f/2 ZE Lens for Canon EF Mount EOS DSLR Cameras:
I'm very impressed with this lens and IQ - sharpness, color redention, bokeh, etc... - it produces even better my Canon 85 1.2L that I just sold, :).
I purchased this lens after read a lot of online reviews and specifically after read Ana-Maria review on B&H website vs the lens I already own the Canon 70-200 F2.8 IS II. I thought this Canon 70-200 zoom lens is Canon top product line that can produce IQ equivalents to Canon prime lens. However, after two months of shooting serial of pictures side by side of this Zeiss 100mm f/2 ZE lens vs Canon lens - 85mm F1.2 L, 24-70 F2.8 L, and 70-200 F2.8 IS II. I really want to part the Canon 200 F2.8 IS II after already parted the Canon 85mm F1.2 L and 24-70mm F2.8 L if the Zeiss is auto focus and zoom. I do need to keep the Canon 200 F2.8 IS II just because of zoom lens and auto focus when I need these features during my shooting session. Other than that, the Zeiss is always on my camera. Oh, I just bought the Zeiss 50mm Macro and Distagon 21mm as well and sold my Canon 24-70 F2.8 IS L lens.
I wish Zeiss will make auto focus on Canon body like they do produce lens for using on Sony body.
I'm getting better and better in term of using manual focus Zeiss lens days after days. Hopefully one day, I can skill up this manually lens as fast as auto focus lens, LOL!!!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Zeiss Makro-Planar T* 100mm f/2 ZE Lens for Canon EF Mount EOS DSLR Cameras:
I'm very pleased with the overall performance of this lens. I had a few reservations about moving to manual focus lenses, and while I will still keep a few auto-focus ones, the three Zeiss lenses I now have are my go-to lenses unless I absolutely need speed of focus.
I've been using the 100mm for general photography where background separation and bokeh are important to me (flowers, trees and specific scenery). The colors and sharpness of the lens are amazing - much sharper than the other Canon lenses I have including the 35L and the 70-200 II IS. The only Canon lens that is as nice is the 85 1.2L.
Built quality is great - it is a heavy lens, but balances well with both a 1D body and also a gripped 50D. The focus ring has quite a bit of travel, so focus can take a little time but tends to be precise. I haven't had a problem focusing using the focus confirmation in the camera, but can see where an upgraded focus screen would help.
Overall, fantastic lens. I would put the Canon 85 1.2L and the Zeiss 100mm f/2 MP as my two favorite lens in terms of build quality, sharpness, and color.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Zeiss Makro-Planar T* 100mm f/2 ZE Lens for Canon EF Mount EOS DSLR Cameras:
best macro ir a canon camera
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Zeiss Makro-Planar T* 100mm f/2 ZE Lens for Canon EF Mount EOS DSLR Cameras:
I've been a professional photographer for over 30 years. Many, many years ago I worked with Contax cameras and Zeiss lenses. Then Hasselblads with Zeiss lenses. Converting to digital, I began with Canon and their line-up of prime and zoom lenses. I would rent Zeiss lenses when the client demands dictated the selection. Nothing wrong with the Canon primes but there is a huge difference in the "thumbprint" of Zeiss and Canon. I finally purchased the Zeiss 21 and 100 and never looked back. Great optics!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Zeiss Makro-Planar T* 100mm f/2 ZE Lens for Canon EF Mount EOS DSLR Cameras:
This is the most amazing lens that I have ever held in my hands. The Zeiss "look" is worth every penny. The micro contrast is like nothing I have ever seen before. I really can't explain all the reasons why this lens is so great. I displayed pics taken with this lens on a 48 inch TV and my husband's reaction was "wow, I feel like I am really in the woods right now". I also put up pics taken with a Canon 100mm 2.8 L IS macro and the difference was very clear. The Canon 100mm L is a wonderful lens and I do enjoy using it, but the Zeiss 100 is something special. I do not ever foresee myself selling this lens.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Zeiss Makro-Planar T* 100mm f/2 ZE Lens for Canon EF Mount EOS DSLR Cameras:
I will be using it for videos and photoshoot.
Love the depth of field, amazing for cinematic video.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Zeiss Makro-Planar T* 100mm f/2 ZE Lens for Canon EF Mount EOS DSLR Cameras:
It's truly the Best Lens I've ever own in my life! I did a lot of research before I made my mind to purchase such an expensive lens. It has a beautiful bokeh, no distortion, colors in the image are much more rich than Canon's, ring on the lens is very smooth, etc. I'm still debating if I should exchange it for canon 70-200 f/2.8 is usm since it's a great lens for weddings. I rent canon 70-200 every time I do a wedding. Zeiss 2/100 is great for portrait, landscape & macro photography - three in one! It's a hard decision for me to make, but I can only buy one in a time.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Zeiss Makro-Planar T* 100mm f/2 ZE Lens for Canon EF Mount EOS DSLR Cameras:
This is a great lens for getting extreme close up shots. Very beautiful, very cinematic for video. What's not to like?
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Zeiss Makro-Planar T* 100mm f/2 ZE Lens for Canon EF Mount EOS DSLR Cameras:
I am a macro photographer and already have the 100mm macro 2.8L II. I have to say, The Zeiss 100mm is the best. F2.0 clear and awesome sharpness. Very good for portraits to.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Zeiss Makro-Planar T* 100mm f/2 ZE Lens for Canon EF Mount EOS DSLR Cameras:
Excellent lens. Very sharp,nice bokeh,excellent manual focus but unfortunately no auto focus,so very poor for taking photos of bees.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Zeiss Makro-Planar T* 100mm f/2 ZE Lens for Canon EF Mount EOS DSLR Cameras:
On the Canon 5D this lens takes some getting used too but only because the canon focus indicator is not completely accurate with this combination. Once you find the sweet spot this lens is incredibly detailed. If you're dead on with focus you can crop to the point of seeing the every detail of every individual pore on someone's face, not that you would want to. You can get extremely close to people and objects. While not a true Macro, this lens has amazing versatility. The colors produced are lovely and accurate, albeit a bit warm. Age wise and equipment wise I am old school so having an all metal, beautifully machined, manual lens has not bothered me at all. P.S., the results are anything but old school.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Zeiss Makro-Planar T* 100mm f/2 ZE Lens for Canon EF Mount EOS DSLR Cameras:
The 100mmf2 macro is an awesome lens.
It is a manual focus lens and I love it.
No auto focus - no computer -like the old days - just you.
It is absolutely great at everything you photograph - near, far and up-close (macro) are all excellent. Edge to edge sharpness is superior.
I use it as a walk about lens for landscape, city/urban and portrait The colors captured with this lens are amazing and accurate.
I have used the Zeiss 160, 80 and 50CF lenses with my Hassleblad 500CM and have always thought there was nothing better until I bought the 100f2. IMO - it's one of the best lenses on the planet.
Moderate weight, razor sharpness, awesome color.
What isn't there to like about this lens?
Said another way the only regret you will have with this lens is that you didn't buy it sooner!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Zeiss Makro-Planar T* 100mm f/2 ZE Lens for Canon EF Mount EOS DSLR Cameras:
This lens is simply in a class of its own. The macro shots i get from this rich in detail, shot wide open, with just the most inspiring bokeh. Get it if you can...
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Zeiss Makro-Planar T* 100mm f/2 ZE Lens for Canon EF Mount EOS DSLR Cameras:
I don't normally write reviews of any kind, but if you are reading this then I assume you are considering buying this lens. I read the reviews, but never trusted them in the past; I went onto google and check out images taken with this lens. I will recommend you do the same. [type in the lens's name and click on images].
They all looked very good yet; I was not convinced till I came to the coin photograph. It was a comparison between this lens and a canon L. The Zeiss was far superior.
I have read so much about it, that when I opened he box; I carried it like a little baby. A few shots round the bedroom in low light was unbelievable. I must have clicked camera buttons over 200,000 times, but when I looked at the first image that jumped off this lens in the dimly lit bedroom in Orlando. I could not believe it. I said this is not possible; I had to jump off the bed, go round the house taking pictures. The results were amazing.
The next day I got on my bike; yes a stupid thing to do; knowing how expensive the lens was; but I knew there is no way on earth this baby will drop. I took many pictures around the neighbourhood; they were all stunning. Yes, all.
The lens is so easy to use; focus at infinity, if you aren't sure for the first few times you uses it; this is a no brainer; then you can adjust depending on what you need to be in focus. At macro level; it is better to place it on a tripod; the bokeh is beautiful.
It will bring a new dimension to your photography be it landscape, portraits or macro. This is not one of the best lenses in the world no matter what you hear. This is the best lens in the world. Nothing compares to it - a sheer beauty of pure glass.
I shot some video on a DSLR with it too; it is amazing. This lens alone is pulling me into the world of video/cinema – it is that good.
I think is the only lens if only one remained in the world; it could be sold with the slogan – 'if you do not like it, return and we will give you double your money back'. There will be no takers; mine has not left my side since the day I bought it.
Pros
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Comments about Zeiss Makro-Planar T* 100mm f/2 ZE Lens for Canon EF Mount EOS DSLR Cameras:
A perfect portrait lens. No distortion side to side. Great color.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Zeiss Makro-Planar T* 100mm f/2 ZE Lens for Canon EF Mount EOS DSLR Cameras:
I've just began to use this "bad boy". Anyone tells you a lens will not make a difference, tell them to tryout a Craig lens and stand back.
So far the clarity, definition etc etc etc is beyond belief, this is my second CZ and so far it super exceeds expectations.