testing a new lens

[thelightofsound]

so i got my 70-200 2.8 IS. does anyone have any good tests to run with it?

[Titus213]

Tests? Shoot a duck!

[Mr. Clean]

Here's what a great resource and friend does here...

Whenever I get a "new" lens (be it brand new or used), I do a "quick-check" to make sure it's performing to MY STANDARDS, especially its focusing accuracy and wide open performance (resolution, contrast, CA, distortions, flare, etc). The following procedure is what I basically do for my "lens tests" as well: Canon 20D, Large-Fine/JPG, Parameter 2, centerpoint AF, Av mode to wide open aperture, tripod, ball-head, take 6 frames (forcing a re-focus each time), view at 100% and select the best of the 6. If the lens is, for example, the Canon 17-55f2.8IS, I'll shoot it at 17mm f2.8 and 55mm f2.8 primarily, as that is where I want to see its performance MAINLY. I make sure my subject is well-lit and contrasty, and once these parameters are in place, I can tell within 30 minutes from start to finish just how good a lens a particular copy is. My main areas of interest are sharpness and color. I will eventually test the lens at stopped down apertures, but not initially.

[CountryBoy]

A duck,geese, cats,family members. If the shots turn out like I think they should, I don't worry about it. If they don't, I check for user error first. This has solved all my problems so far,

[sblais]

A duck,geese, cats,family members. If the shots turn out like I think they should, I don't worry about it. If they don't, I check for user error first. This has solved all my problems so far,

If you shoot a "duck,geese, cats,family members", you'll have enough meat for a month! ;)