Monday, August 5, 2013

Zoom In With a Canon Lens - 70-300mm IS Produces Surprising Results


There have been tons of reviews written as reviews for cameras and lenses. It is refreshing when someone departs from the geeky, techy writing pattern and just gives their opinion in plain English.

I am hoping this report, I'm not going to cal it a review, will make sense to the average camera buff, or someone who is even struggling to figure out which lens is best for their needs.

It's about Canon lens - 70-300mm zoom lens for digital SLR cameras.

To start with the Pros:

The lens has really good optical quality. It compares very nicely to Canon's very highly rated 70-200mm lens lineup, of which there are now 5. Many reviews indicate that the 70-200mm lenses are much better, but just read what the people who have bought the Canon 70-300 say, and you should be surprised at how much they all like it.

When comparing price between these lenses, the 70-300mm is cheaper than all but the 70-200mm f/4 (without IS).

One more comparison with the 70-200mm lenses, it is less bulky and much easier to handle for long periods of time, especially if you compare it to the f/2.8 versions of the 70-200. Those are quite heavy.

On the Con side:

The lens is one that extends when it zooms. Many photographers like zoom lenses that have an interior movement for zoom, meaning the lens never changes size. Also, there is no hood with this one.

Take your time doing your research before you make your decision about buying any lens. One place I recommend you look is the online camera stores like Amazon and B & H Photo. Look for the user reviews for the product you are thinking about. These people do not get paid for their opinions, so there is no reason for them to fabricate their stories.

The Canon lens 70-300mm is great for someone who shoots a wide variety of pictures.


  • It works really well for portraits (super at about 150mm).

  • Excellent for sports, especially outdoor sports like kids soccer or baseball. Not as good for indoor sports unless the lighting is good.

  • Many use it as a nature lens for birds in flight or even pictures at the zoo when you can't get very close to the animals.

  • It works for street photography when you want to be the "unnoticed" photographer.

Finally, the Canon 70-300mm is excellent for someone on a budget that does not have the funds to purchase the Canon "L" lenses that pro photographers value so highly. Until you get to the point that your images are making you a comfortable living, consider the Canon lens - 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS. You won't have any buyer's remorse if you do.

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