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Introduction
When it comes to photography, having the right lens can make all the difference. The Canon EF 35mm f/1.4L II USM is a popular choice among photographers for its excellent image quality, fast aperture, and versatile focal length. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at this lens and see what makes it so special.
Design and Build Quality
The Canon EF 35mm f/1.4L II USM lens is well-built and feels solid in the hand. It has a weather-sealed construction, which means it can withstand dust, moisture, and other environmental factors. The lens also has a large focus ring that allows for precise manual focusing.
Image Quality
One of the standout features of this lens is its image quality. The lens produces sharp, detailed images with great color and contrast. It also has a fast maximum aperture of f/1.4, which makes it an excellent choice for low-light photography.
Sharpness
The Canon EF 35mm f/1.4L II USM lens is incredibly sharp, even when shooting wide open at f/1.4. The center of the frame is particularly sharp, but the edges and corners are also very good.
Bokeh
The lens produces beautiful bokeh thanks to its fast maximum aperture and nine-bladed diaphragm. This makes it a great choice for portrait and wedding photographers who want to create a shallow depth of field.
Chromatic Aberration
Chromatic aberration is well-controlled with this lens. There is some minor fringing in high-contrast areas, but it’s not noticeable in most situations.
Autofocus
The Canon EF 35mm f/1.4L II USM lens has a fast and accurate autofocus system. The lens uses Canon’s Ultrasonic Motor (USM) technology, which provides quick and quiet focusing. The lens also has full-time manual focus override, which allows you to make manual adjustments to focus without switching to manual mode.
Compatibility
The Canon EF 35mm f/1.4L II USM lens is compatible with all Canon EOS DSLRs. It’s also compatible with Canon’s EF lens extenders, which can increase the focal length of the lens while maintaining image quality.
Price
The Canon EF 35mm f/1.4L II USM lens is not cheap, but it’s also not the most expensive lens in Canon’s lineup. As of 2023, the lens retails for around $1,500 USD. While this may seem like a lot of money, the lens is worth it for its image quality and versatility.
Alternatives
If the Canon EF 35mm f/1.4L II USM lens is out of your budget, there are some alternatives to consider. The Canon EF 35mm f/2 IS USM lens is a good option for those who want a similar focal length but don’t need the fast maximum aperture. The Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art lens is also a great choice for those who want a fast aperture and excellent image quality.
Conclusion
The Canon EF 35mm f/1.4L II USM lens is an excellent choice for photographers who want a high-quality, versatile lens. The lens produces sharp, detailed images with great color and contrast, and its fast maximum aperture makes it a great choice for low-light photography. While it may be expensive, the lens is worth it for its image quality and versatility.
Tips for Using the Canon EF 35mm f/1.4L II USM Lens
Here are some tips for using the Canon EF 35mm f/1.4L II USM lens:
Shoot Wide Open
The lens has a fast maximum aperture of f/1.4, so don’t be afraid to shoot wide open. This will create a shallow depth of field and beautiful bokeh.
Use Manual Focus
The lens has a large focus ring that allows for precise manual focusing. Use manual focus when shooting in low-light situations or when you want to have more control over the focus.
Experiment with Composition
The 35mm focal length is a great choice for a variety of compositions. Experiment with different angles and perspectives to create unique images.
Consider Using a Tripod
The lens is heavy, so consider using a tripod when shooting for extended periods of time. This will help prevent camera shake and ensure sharp images.
Use a Lens Hood
The lens comes with a lens hood, which helps to reduce lens flare and protect the front element of the lens. Always use the lens hood when shooting.
FAQs
What is the minimum focusing distance of the Canon EF 35mm f/1.4L II USM lens?
The minimum focusing distance of the lens is 0.28m (0.92 ft).
What is the filter size of the Canon EF 35mm f/1.4L II USM lens?
The filter size of the lens is 72mm.
Is the Canon EF 35mm f/1.4L II USM lens weather-sealed?
Yes, the lens has a weather-sealed construction, which means it can withstand dust, moisture, and other environmental factors.
What is the maximum aperture of the Canon EF 35mm f/1.4L II USM lens?
The maximum aperture of the lens is f/1.4.
Does the Canon EF 35mm f/1.4L II USM lens have image stabilization?
No, the lens does not have image stabilization.
What is the weight of the Canon EF 35mm f/1.4L II USM lens?
The lens weighs approximately 760g (1.68 lbs).
Final Thoughts
The Canon EF 35mm f/1.4L II USM lens is a great choice for photographers who want a high-quality, versatile lens. Its image quality, fast aperture, and versatile focal length make it an excellent choice for a variety of photography genres. While it may be expensive, the lens is worth it for its image quality and versatility.
