The Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM Telephoto Lens is the perfect choice for nature, wildlife and sports photographers. The lens is extremely light for its class and the Image Stabilization system offers up to four extra stops of performance. The EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM features Fluorite optics that deliver sharper images with less chromatic aberration, and Fluorine coating that keeps soiling, smears and fingerprints to a minimum. With a super-telephoto focal length, fast aperture and outstanding image quality, this lens provides reliability and exceptional results expected from the Canon line of L lenses.
With a third Image Stabilization mode (Mode 3) that activates IS only when the shutter button is fully pressed, and giving the equivalent effect of a shutter speed four stops faster, the EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM allows for easy panning and is ideally positioned for professional action photography. Fast, quiet Auto Focusing (AF) is provided by a ring-type fast Ultra-Sonic Motor (USM), dedicated AF algorithms and a high-speed CPU, which offers quick and accurate focusing during shooting. Photographers can also utilize full-time manual focusing functionality, which enables the adjustment and fine-tuning of focus even when the AF system is activated, providing even greater control over image capture. The Power Focus mode aids focusing during video shooting, allowing the photographer to smoothly adjust focus during filming by twisting the focus recall ring. With a security slot for wire-type security locks, buttons and switches are redesigned for intuitive, deliberate operation, and dust and water sealing keeps the lens functioning flawlessly in even the most challenging environments.
| Performance | |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | 300 mm |
| Aperture |
Maximum: f/2.8 Minimum: f/32 |
| Camera Mount Type | Canon EF |
| Format Compatibility |
35mm Film / Full-Frame Digital Sensor Canon (APS-C) |
| Angle of View | 8° |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 6.6' (2 m) |
| Magnification | 0.13x |
| Maximum Reproduction Ratio | 1:7.6 |
| Groups/Elements | 12/16 |
| Diaphragm Blades | 8 |
| Features | |
|---|---|
| Image Stabilization | Yes |
| Autofocus | Yes |
| Tripod Collar | Yes |
| Physical | |
|---|---|
| Filter Thread | 52 mm |
| Dimensions (DxL) | Approx. 5.0 x 9.8" (12.70 x 24.89 cm) |
| Weight | 5.17 lb (2.35 kg) |
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Comments about Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM Telephoto Lens:
Used mostly for bird photography. With no TC extenders it is incredibly sharp. With the 2X TC-III it provides exceptionally sharp images.
I usually use it with 2X attached to get the equivalent of a 600mm with a great weight savings, as I usually use it hand-held. It's about 3.5 lbs lighter than a 500 + 1.4X, but this is significant if you are carrying it around for a long time.
The slow focussing with the 2X is a particular
nuisance on the full focus range and if the lens hasn't been prefocussed on something in the approximate range of the subject. On either of the partial ranges it works well, but clearly not as well as without the extender. In any event it has worked out well for birds in flight which demands good rapid accurate autofocus.
I got it as a lighter weight substitute for a 500 with 1.4X. That combo focuses faster, but the 300+2X seems to give comparable image quality.
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Comments about Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM Telephoto Lens:
This is a "prime" lens that offers "tack sharp" images. It is versatile, that is,
I am able to capture DIII football photos and render sharp images with a reasonable crop (I use a 1D Mk III camera.), yet I still am able to use it on a high school gymnasium floor for basketball and get some remarkably tight captures. It's best on a monopod, yet can be hand-held if needed. It's "Image Stabilization 3" setting seems to be a marked improvement from its predecessor. Canon has also lightened the weight of the lens, made some improvements on the hood cover, and has included the "Portrait"/"Landscape" "click alignment" (I believe they're called 90° detents.) I also like the new carrying case for the lens.
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Comments about Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM Telephoto Lens:
The support collar and the weight reduction alone made this purchase worth it. The image quality is outstanding, can't say if it's "better" than the prior version but the collar and weight alone make it "better" for me. Now I'm struggling with ditching the monopod and hand holding only...! And the new IS setting #3... fantastic! It's pricey but it's quality.
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Comments about Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM Telephoto Lens:
Light, fast, sharp, great IS! Best lens Canon produced!
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Comments about Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM Telephoto Lens:
Purchased the lens a couple of weeks ago. Went from the 300 2.8 non IS to new 300 2.8IS II. My original 300 lasted 18 years great year. Was my all-time favorite lens. I tested the new one with my Mark IV on a couple of NHL preseason game, 1 youth hockey game and came away amazed. The images were tack sharp, focusing speed is fantastic. The image quality is great. I also used it with a 1.4 version II, with almost no drop off in focusing speed or image quality. It was time to replace some of my old glass. The price was hard to justify, went back and forth in my decision. In the end, Canon has nailed it with this lens...
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Comments about Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM Telephoto Lens:
I just got this lens today and I love it! The quality is so sharp and the build quality is excellent!
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