Camera Hacker

Some thoughts on the Canon 75-300mm f/4-5.6 II USM lens

This lens is the second SLR lens I ever purchased. (The Sigma 28-80 is my first.) This lens is about twice the weight of my first lens, and almost twice the weight of my Canon Rebel G. However, it is one of the lightest in its class.

I love the weight and the versitility of this lens. In fact, I carry it with me all the time. The sharpness of this lens is ok, and contrast varies. The image quality is not so good at 300mm, where I need it the most, which really bothers me.

The ultrasonic motor (USM) is relatively fast and quiet compared to non-USM lenses. This lens is based on Canon's micro motor, so full-time manual is not supported (means you can't turn the focus ring when AF is set). The focus ring turns smoothly. I wish it can be a little bit tighter. The zoom creeps when the lens is pointed down-ward.

The lens also has a rotating front, which means using a circular polarizer can be troublesome. The hood doesn't come with the lens, and have to be purchased separately. The model number of the hood is ET-60.

Overall, I get more pictures with this lens then the Canon 300mm f/4 L lens that I have. Since it is lighter, I get to take it with me all the time. It is also a lot cheaper.

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Some photos made with this lens

bird landing
- Canon Rebel G, Canon 75-300mm f/4-5.6 II USM, Kodak Gold 100.

bird wings
- Canon Rebel G, Canon 75-300mm f/4-5.6 II USM, Polaroid HD 200.

happy Eve
- Canon Rebel G, Canon 75-300mm f/4-5.6 II USM.

MeiMei - my uncle's cat
- Canon Rebel G, Canon 75-300mm f/4-5.6 II USM.

scream
- Canon Rebel G, Canon 75-300mm f/4-5.6 II USM, Kodak Tri-X 400.

Anticipating
- Canon Rebel G, Canon 75-300mm f/4-5.6 II USM.

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