Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8 L Mk II

[squarepumpkin]

Part 1

Rating: TBA

Pros: Improved curvilinear distortion control over the previous version and the 17-40 f/4 L.
        Fast focussing.
        Relatively light and compact.   
               
Cons: No significant advantage in image quality over the 17-40 f/4 L which costs about half the price.
        82mm filter size.
        Vignettes at f/2.8.

I picked up a copy of the lens during the week from Cathay to replace the 5 year old 17-40 f/4 L. The USM motor died and I have no auto focus.

Contrary to what some other reviewers said, its not much bigger than the previous 16-35mm f/2.8 L or the 17-40 f/4 L. Though having an 82mm front, its still very easy to handle as with all other UWA zooms from Canon. The zooming is unlike the one on the 24-105 f/4 L which is very tight. This one is smooth and easy to use.

After using it for an assignment this morning, I find the image quality from this lens is similar to that of the 17-40 f/4 L. A little disappointing given the price difference. What this lens really shine in is the improved curvilinear distortion control. Much better than both the 16-35mm f/2.8 L and 17-40 f/4 L.

Part 2 coming up.

[victor]

I have been using this lens when it first launch (almost 2 years now). I feel that the vignetting effect is lightly better then the 17-40L and also in low light conditions, it comes in really handy. You can shoot at 1/30 at 35mm @ F2.8 @ ISO 1600 and the image quality cannot be match by the 17-40L given the similar lightning condition. So the $2K spend is worth in my opinion.

[Michael]

I heard the vignetting and the distortion is way better controlled than the 1740 but it has issues of backfocusing.

[victor]

I heard the vignetting and the distortion is way better controlled than the 1740 but it has issues of backfocusing.

Not an issue when you have 1DM3 or 5DMII to do micro AF adjustment.