Canon 20mm f2.8 - experiences?

[webbEvents]

Hi All,
I often take formal shots of large (100+) groups of people and to date have used my 17-40 f4, its does the job, but since moving upto the 5d Mk2,I'm noticing th edge of the photos are soft and have quite a lot off CR. I reckon a fixed prime would help, and have been looking at the Canon 20mm f2.8. Reasonably priced, but not an "L" like my other lenses. Does anyone have any first hand experience with this lens?? How do you rate it?
Webby

 

[ShrubMonkey]

I have consided this lens in the past. Reviews seem to vary a bit here

Average rating 7.3
http://www.fredmiranda.com/reviews/showproduct.php?product=28&sort=7&cat=2&page=2

 

[webbEvents]

Hi, thanks for that Julian. Looks like its probably no better than the 17-40. I might hire one for the next shoot and see how that goes. Don't want to spend on a focal length I already have if its no better than what I'm using now.
Webby

 

[daveb99]

What aperture are you using on the 17-40L for your shots ?

Mine is very sharp at the edges when stopped down - F8 seems to be the sweet spot.

 

[LongLensPhotography]

Just set your 17-40mm past 20mm (maybe 24mm) and all shall look better.

 

[whiteflyer]

When I'm thinking of buy any Canon stuff I always check The Digital Picture for what I consider very accurate reviews.

 

[webbEvents]

Cheers,
tried all apertures, I'm being really picky about it though!! Just checked the last three I did and they range from f6.3-f11. 17mm and 28mm. I'll live with it
Webby

 

[david1701]

I don't own one but am considering one as an uwa and a backup for a failed 28/1.8