Canon EF 28-135mm IS USM lens

In reading about this lens, it appears that there's a learning curve for using IS, and sometimes it's better in the off position?

Can you guys give me some insight on this lens?

Thank you,....marc

If your subject is stationary (in one spot) so that you are not moving the camera to keep up with the subject, keep the IS on. If the subject is moving and you need to pan the camera to keep the subject in the viewfinder, then turn IS off.

You also want to turn IS off if you have the camera on a tripod.

If you do have the IS on, make sure you have the shutter button half-pressed for about a second to give the IS time to turn on and settle in before taking the picture. If you take a picture before IS is ready, your picture isn't going to be as sharp as it could be.

i've gotten some really sharp pics with mine, and also some duds, just like any other lens.

The only time you need to turn the IS off with this lens is when you have the camera on a tripod. This lens has first generation IS that doesn't turn off automatically when mounted on a tripod, the IS continues to try to stabilize a stationary object...giving you some blur...

I agree with the above poasters...you have to follow the IS rules of engagement and expect results just like any other lens...

Woolburr wrote in post #2063228
The only time you need to turn the IS off with this lens is when you have the camera on a tripod. This lens has first generation IS that doesn't turn off automatically when mounted on a tripod, the IS continues to try to stabilize a stationary object...giving you some blur...

Have you ever tried tracking a moving object with the 28-135IS with the IS turned on? It's not that easy to do unless you've had a lot of practice doing it.

I had this lens for about a year and I have to say that as soon as I sold it I missed it. It was very good to me. Yes it was soft focused at some times at 100% but it was good upto 80% all the time. The IS on or off never really made that much of a difference except for some things. It is a good lens. Not the best not the worst but a good lens for the price.

PacAce wrote in post #2063494
Have you ever tried tracking a moving object with the 28-135IS with the IS turned on? It's not that easy to do unless you've had a lot of practice doing it.

I use mine mainly for tracking moving objects. I've never had a problem with it tracking a train...even those running in the high-speed corridor. Seems like people either have a superb copy of this lens or a total piece of junk....glad I got one of the good ones. I've had mine since 2001 and have never had a single issue with it...