Opinions on Canon EF 135 f/2

[clkgtr37]

I am looking into buying one of these lenses and I was wondering if anyone has some experience with this model? If you do here are my questions:
1) How are the optics
2) How much did you pay
3) Where did you buy it
4) Is it good for portraiture or does the 1.6 mutiplier make it too much
5) I already have a 70-200 f/2.8 IS, should I still buy the 135 f/2

[Roger_Cavanagh]

I have both the 135/2 and the 70-200LIS. I got the 135 first not expecting to be able to get the 70-200 at an affordable price. Unless you are in the UK, the price won't be helpful. It was around GBP800-850 (can't remember exactly) much more than US prices from Warehouse Express Online.

The optics are fantastic. The colour, crispness and contrast are awesome. All the images in these three galleries were taken with the 135:

http://www.rogercavanagh.com/EF135/index.htm
http://www.rogercavanagh.com/at_the_zoo/index.htm
http://www.rogercavanagh.com/meerkats/index.htm

It certainly is possible to use the lens for portraits, although they will be "close-ups" unless you back away a good distance. :) I don't have any examples posted, but if you like to see one or two, let me know.

The lens is a good size to carry - must be only 30-40% of the weight of the 70-200. I have never done a comaprison of the optics of the two lenses. I proably would not have bought the 135, if I already had the 70-200, but I would not give it up now that I have both.

Regards,

[Scho]

This one of my favorite lenses. Extremely sharp, excellent color and contrast, and balances perfectly on the D30 (not very heavy and solid construction). I don't have any human portraits, but here is another type of portrait taken with this lens:
http://www.schophoto.com/gallery/photo.php?photo=420&exhibition=8
See also the gear notes on the above page for a review of the 135 2L.

[jadams]

Just wanted to say that's a great shot you've got there! It's often so hard to get good shots of dogs, but you've done quite well.

Jasper

[Scho]

Thanks Jasper. He was very cooperative and I think his owner was pleased with the results.

[clkgtr37]

Scho,
I have been looking at your websight for a while now and love your work. I will tell you right know, if there were one image alone that would convince me to buy this lens it was you picture of the squirrel on the bench. I loved it. Any suggestions on where to buy this lens?
Thank you,
Blair

[Scho]

Thanks Blair. I purchased the 135 2L from B&H Photo, but I noticed that they do not currently have either the USA or Grey warranty versions available:
http://www01.bhphotovideo.com/default.sph/FrameWork.class?FNC=ProductActivator__Aproductlist _html___112539___CA1352LEF___USA___CatID=274___SID =EF278A26620