How do I test a new lens?

Well, I just pulled the trigger and ordered a Canon 70-200mm 2.8 IS. I am very excited but am also a little apprehensive with the talk about some copies being soft or the focus not being right on.

I know the real answer is to take some photos and see if I like them, but being an engineer I always love a good test.

So, what tests should I run to put myself at ease?

PS - I know this info is here somewhere but for the life of me I can't find it!

If you absolutely positively have to test it then try shooting a flattened bank note from different distances. There's plenty of detail on them to check for sharpness, artifacts, focus, etc.

Congrats on one of the best lens ever.

Not sure of the MFD of the zoom, prob 3 foot at least, give some cushion if you wanna try a focus test.

I dont do chart tests, but good luck with yours.

Its gonna be very different DOF from your F4.

Use this writeup as a guide.

http://www.bobatkins.c​om …nical/testing_l​enses.html

I just tested my 70-200/2.8 IS against my primes by the way and it is a very good lens. Mine is quite sharp even wide open which makes it extremely versatile.

Thanks for the responses. I am not going to over analyze this thing but wasn't sure if there was a particular type of test. Guess I will just take some shots and see how they look.

I can't wait to get thing and try it out. Looking forward to learning the DOF at 2.8 also!

Do not believe everything you read. I will bet 99.9% of those lenses are just fine. Go out and shoot pix and smile, a lot.