What is the Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM?
The Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM is a high-performance telephoto lens designed for Canon EOS digital cameras. It belongs to Canon’s prestigious L-series lenses, which are known for their exceptional optical quality and professional-grade construction. The lens has a maximum aperture of f/2, making it ideal for capturing stunning portraits with beautiful background blur, even in low-light conditions.
The “EF” in its name stands for “Electro-Focus,” indicating that it is compatible with Canon EOS cameras, both film and digital. The “USM” refers to the Ultra Sonic Motor, which provides fast and silent autofocus operation, allowing photographers to capture precise moments without causing any disturbance. Overall, the Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM is a highly sought-after lens among professional photographers and enthusiasts alike.
Key Features and Benefits
1. **Outstanding Image Quality**: The Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM boasts exceptional image quality, thanks to its use of advanced lens elements and coatings. It produces sharp and detailed images with minimal chromatic aberrations, distortions, and flare.
2. **Wide Aperture**: With a wide maximum aperture of f/2, this lens provides excellent low-light performance and enables photographers to achieve a shallow depth of field, resulting in beautifully blurred backgrounds that make the subject stand out.
3. **Superior Bokeh**: The lens’s nine-blade circular aperture diaphragm creates smooth and pleasing bokeh, enhancing the visual impact of portraits and isolating subjects from distractions in the background.
4. **Fast and Accurate Autofocus**: The built-in Ultrasonic Motor (USM) delivers fast, precise, and virtually silent autofocus, allowing photographers to capture fleeting moments without disturbing the scene.
5. **Durable Build Quality**: Like all L-series lenses, the EF 135mm f/2L USM is built with professional-grade construction. It features weather-sealing and rugged build quality, ensuring it can withstand the demands of various shooting environments.
Real-World Applications
The Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM is highly versatile and can be used for various photography genres. Some popular applications include:
1. **Portrait Photography**: The lens’s 135mm focal length combined with the wide aperture makes it an excellent choice for professional portrait photographers. It produces flattering perspectives and creamy bokeh, capturing the personality and emotions of the subject.
2. **Wedding Photography**: The lens’s ability to create beautiful background separation and deliver tack-sharp images makes it a preferred choice for wedding photographers. It excels in capturing candid moments, details, and stunning couple portraits.
3. **Sports and Wildlife Photography**: The 135mm focal length allows photographers to shoot from a distance, making it ideal for capturing sports events or wildlife without disturbing the subjects. The wide aperture helps freeze action and isolate the subject from the background.
Conclusion
The Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM is a powerful telephoto lens that offers outstanding optical performance, professional build quality, and advanced autofocus capabilities. Its wide maximum aperture and superior bokeh make it an excellent choice for portrait, wedding, sports, and wildlife photography. Whether you are a professional photographer or an enthusiast looking to elevate your photography, this lens will undoubtedly deliver exceptional results.
