A superior performance, ultra-compact telephoto zoom lens with Canon's Image Stabilization. These Diffractive Optics elements are combined to reduce size and boost image quality. AF is super-fast and silent with a ring-type USM, and it focuses down to 4.6 feet – without rotating the front element. A new zoom lock button keeps the lens safe and secure when not in use or used at the wide angle.
11Ultra-compact lens with Canon Image Stabilization
Diffractive Optics reduce size, boost image quality
AF is fast and silent with a ring-type USM; focuses down to 4.6 feet
Zoom lock button keeps lens secure when not in use or used at wide angle
I bought this lens a couple of years ago and have used it significantly while traveling. It is a nice lens, relatively light for the range and convenient in size. Pictures lack the sharpness that i was expecting from an expensive lens. in my case I don't think the convenience in size compensates for the average quality of the images in the far end of the range.
I have used this lens for over 3 years and I have found that the Canon 70-300mm DO IS lens to be real work horse in photographing historical and battle reenactments and on my travels. I can use the short end to set up the scene and the 300mm for close in and detail pictures.
I bought this lens as a step up from the 100-300mm USM and have been extremely pleased with the results. This lens is sharp, the build quality and light weight of the lens holds up well when running around the battlefield, it encompasses the needed focal lengths and it is reliable! It might not be an “L” series lens but I wouldn’t replace it for anything. Keeping in mind the demands of the consumer, product quality, price point and intended use, Canon has done an excellent job with this lens.
I have owned and used Canon cameras and lenses for over 40 years. I am one of those old fashion photographers that still uses film, I even use my old Canon AT-1 with the 28-85mm FD lens, so I don’t just rattle off a dozen pictures without thinking. Would I recommend the Canon 70-300mm DO IS lens to anybody, you can bet on it.
This lens is for someone who... ...doesn't need L quality ...can afford up to $1000 ...wants a small lens for travel and/or candids . My wife and I call this the spy lens. We do a lot of traveling, and only take carry-ons so size does matter. More importantly (as others have said), people get uncomfortable when you point a huge lens at them. I get great candids with both this and my 85mm 1.8 without subjects realizing they're being shot. I've actually had people get out of my way because they thought I was shooting a building or statue behind them. The IS is also great when the light fades. . I have also shot auto races with this lens. The USM is fast and steady. It keeps up with the 6 fps of my 50D nicely. . I have limited experience with other Canon zooms. This seems slightly better than the other 70-300, same or better IQ and a bit faster USM. It isn't as sharp as the 70-200 2.8 L, however. . The MSRP is too high for a non-L lens. I bought it used for just under $900. If you can get it for under $1000, it's worth it.
Never could get a decent photo out of this lens, photos always slightly out of focus, couldn't handle high light conditions at all. NOT the all around lens I expected. Replaced it with the 38-300 L lens.
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