Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 Macro USM Portrait Lens
This lens overwhelms with the value it delivers for portrait photography. It is so blazingly sharp and provides amazing images. I was expecting a benefit, but wow. I've effectively received two lenses all for the cost of just one. You'll need good lighting, which is the case for all portrait photography.
The Canon EF 100mm USM macro lens lets you bring tiny objects into view. Macro lenses can reveal detail which would be otherwise impossible to see with the naked eye and deliver a whole new point of view to extremely minute objects such small flower petals and insects, and this Canon lens is not the exception.
It offers features such as a triple-group floating scheme for outstanding close-up images; a secondary diaphragm blocks wandering light while using f/2.8, that boosts contrast while shooting wide open; the USM (ultra-sonic monitor) delivers outstanding auto focus speed at every focusing distance; a wide ring for smooth manual focusing action; plus full-time manual focusing while even in autofocus mode.
Even with the big maximum aperture, it's still a compact lens. For rear focusing lens group number 5 moves, while crisp, sharp, photos are captured at every aperture. The blur of the background is perfect for portrait shooting, while the lens auto focuses quickly and quietly because of the USM.
Canon has built a number of other macro lenses, although I have a preference the 100mm over the shorter macro lenses because I can stand further away from that wasp, bee, or any other insect and different from a longer lens, is that I can capture many of handheld macro impromptu photos as I'm out walking.
if you're planning on taking advantage of the macro function, just remember that the lens's effective f-stop really increases while you're focusing at extremely close ranges. At 6 inches from the front of the lens, it acts as if its set at f/9. You'll either need an abundance of light or an extremely steady subject plus a sturdy tripod (one more reason to purchase the revolting overpriced tripod collar).
June 12, 2011
Features
• Advanced optical formula with a three-group floating element system
• Internal focusing means the lens length is constant
• Secondary diaphragm to block stray light at f/2.8 & increase contrast
• Ultrasonic Motor provides outstanding AF speed at all focusing distances
• Wide manual focusing ring with smooth action & fulltime manual focus override
• Tripod collar available optionally
Lens Includes
• 58mm Snap-On Lens Cap
• Lens Dust Cap E (Rear)
• 1-Year Warranty
