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EF 500mm f/4L IS II USM
22094

Overview
Worthy successor to the lauded Canon EF 500mm f/4L IS USM, the new EF 500mm f/4L IS II USM super telephoto lens features completely redesigned Fluorite optics that deliver sharper images with less chromatic aberration and has a lighter weight thanks to magnesium and titanium construction elements. Because image stabilization technology in super telephoto lenses may inadvertently over-compensate and interfere with composing and framing distant or moving subjects, the EF 500mm f/4L IS II USM includes an advanced third Image Stabilization mode (Mode 3) that activates IS only when the shutter button is fully pressed. This allows users to pan fast-moving subjects and then activate IS only when it is precisely required. Additionally, all three IS modes give the equivalent effect of a shutter speed four stops faster, ideally positioning the Canon EF 500mm f/4L IS II USM for professional action photography, from sports to nature. The addition of the Power Focus mode enables smooth focus change when shooting video. Buttons and switches are redesigned for intuitive, deliberate operation, and dust and water sealing keeps the EF 500mm f/4L IS II USM functioning flawlessly in even the most challenging environments.
Sample Image
MTF Charts
EF 500mm f/4L IS II USM
5
5
1
1
Superlight Super telephoto
The canon 500mm II is a masterpiece. Version I was as well, but somehow, some way canon managed to shave 1.5 lbs off of this lens. For travel and hiking this lens cannot be beat.
The lens seems to AF slower with the series III tele converters vs the series ii. So keep that in mind.
The 4 stops of IS also helps with hand holding this lens, but so does the aforementioned weight savings.
I am happy I have purchased the 500mm ii and it will be a nice companion to my 800mm L.
June 10, 2012
