Canon 28-135 IS

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I am researching a new lens. The last thread I could find on this subject was several months ago, I was wondering if opinions had changed with several more months experience. I hope I am not repeating the question. For a one lens kit, for general purpose, easy to travel and handhold lens, yet maintaining good quality (sharp and contrasty to 8x10 size) photos, would you recommend the Canon 28-105 or 28-135IS or something else? Budget is up to the 28-135IS range. What would be the advantages of your choice? Thanks for responses in advance. Wei

-- Wen-Wei Chiang (wwchiang@singnet.com.sg), September 17, 1999

Answers

I was looking for a lens to fill the gap between 28mm and my Canon 70- 200 f2.8 L lens and after reading posts on this board and talking to others I finally decided on the Canon 28-135 IS. For me it came down to choosing between the Canon 28-70 2.8L and the Canon 28-135 IS. I chose the IS because it was smaller, lighter and had the IS feature and was considerably less expensive. Although I'm sure the 28-70 2.8 L is superior and the 2.8 aperture very nice to have, I convinced myself to get the IS lens instead. After ordering the lens I started questioning my decision - knowing I never go wrong when I buy the best (28-70 2.8L). Wow! Was I surprised when I shot some photos with the 28-135 IS. It is a very sharp lens with good contrast. You can enlarge to larger than 11x14 without any noticable loss of quality. I have a Tamron 28-200 Super and enlargements to 8x10 with this lens are not anywhere near as sharp or contrasty as with the 28-135 IS. It is a good walk around lens but I would feel very limited having it as my only travel lens. Sometimes I want to be wider and sometimes I want to be tighter than the 28-135 focal range can give me. This lens is another great Canon product.

-- david hickey (fido@home.com), September 18, 1999.

I've had the 28-135IS for over a year. You are correct, it is one heck of a lens--incredibly sharp and contrasty. I have also noticed that it has beautiful out of focus images, reminding me of Leica products. I had to return my first one because when going outside on hot days, moisture would form INSIDE the lens and it would take hours to clear. It does burn batteries, however. The 28-105 is nearly as good, and a lot smaller and lighter.

-- Bill Mitchell (bmitch@home.com), September 24, 1999.

Thank you to those who responded. I went for the 28-135 IS lens. From my first 2 rolls exposed, I was amazed and delighted at the results in terms of colour and sharpness. The IS really works! This has become my favourite lens. Wei

-- Wen-Wei Chiang (wwchiang@singnet.com.sg), September 28, 1999.

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