L lenses typically have more features and are manufactured with high quality materials and a higher level of dust and moisture resistance compared to the standard lens line-up. This rugged pro quality lens is built for serious photographers with high demands of their equipment. Twenty three elements in eighteen groups are encased in a sturdy metal casing. Four Super UD-glass elements largely eliminate the secondary spectrum reducing residual chromatic aberration. An improved 8-blade circular aperture offers more pleasing bokeh for out of focus backgrounds. The Canon EF 70-200mm lens has a minimal focusing distance of 4.3 ft/1.3 m. The front thread accepts 77mm filters, I recommend getting a good quality UV haze filter to protect the front lens element from scratches. A switch permits for auto or manual focus and another switch will shift the lens from 1.4m/4.6ft to infinity or 2.5m/8.2ft to infinity. Plus this lens is compatible with both the 1.4x II and 2X II telephoto extenders.

This lens looks out of place, being white, but this helps it stay cool when shooting out in the sun. Some photographers are concerned the unusual color attracts thieves’ attention. From my experience, my 40D with any lens attracts attention. In addition, I most likely have a camera bag and either a tripod or monopod with me to attract even more attention. I personally feel a thief looking for something to steal is taking less concerned with the cost of the item, and are more concerned with the ease of taking something they can unload. I try to make things difficult for potential thieves and have my equipment insured as a back-up.

The dual IS system has two modes for those interested in panning shots. Mode 1 is for stationary subjects stabilizing both up/down and left/right movement. Mode two is for moving subjects or panning, stabilizing only up/down movement. While Canon recommends not using the IS function on a tripod; I have successfully used this feature on my monopod many times. The IS attempts to eliminate camera shake when shooting from a moving vehicle or in low light situations. While there are limitations to what the IS can do, it can provide a few extra stops in darker areas. Just keep in mind, the IS attempts to eliminate camera movement, not the movement of the subject being photographed.

This lens includes the tripod mount, ET-86 lens hood, and the LZ1324 zippered soft storage case. The tripod mount is the best option to use when mounting to a tripod, helping to maintain balance. Mounting the camera creates an unbalanced set up which may topple over. The lens hood potentially reduces lens flare and offers limited protect for the front element.

The 70-200mm IS provides incredible clarity and sharpness. Compared to the Canon 100-400, images tend to be a little more saturated as well. In addition focusing is quick and quiet. The dual IS plus f/2.8 add more functionality, making this lens more versatile than the Canon 100-400.

Being an L series lens, the 70-200mm IS is expensive and weighs about 3.24 lbs or 1,470 g. About 8 inches in length, this lens sits way out in front of the camera too. This is true with the 100-400mm lens to, but if you are not familiar with this type of lens it may be a bit of a workout at first.

The EF 100-400mm f4.5-5.6L IS USM telephoto zoom lens is my lens of choice for sports photography. I find the push/pull focusing of the 100-400mm lens to be a benefit that the 70-200mm cannot replace. However, the clarity and sharpness of the 70-200mm IS lens is more refined. The f/2.8L combined with the IS makes this lens a good option for low light situations. Plus image quality loss is minimal when using the 1.4x II telephoto extender. This lenses features add creative versatility used as a walkabout lens, for landscapes, or travel photography. The Canon EF 70-200mm IS lens comes at a price, but it is worth every cent.

PROS:
Incredible clarity and sharpness
Quiet and quick auto-focus
Features add creative versatility
Dual IS system

CONS:
Heavy and bulky
Expensive