Canon 70-200 f2.8 IS Versions

EMA747

EMA747

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Andy
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I am about to buy a Canon 70-200mm f2.8 IS but was wondering if there are different versions of this lens depending on the age. I thought I remember reading that they updated the IS motor or something at some point, but I might well be wrong. ;)


I am thinking of maybe buying seecond hand off ebay that's why I ask. Would anyone recommend buying second hand or should I buy new. 2nd hand will save maybe £150 on new price (I will buy off Kerso if I buy new). 2nd hand saves the first buyer depreciation.


Andy S
 
There's only one version, I'd be careful buying one from ebay, and consider finding one you can pick-up and therefore inspect first. for £150, think 'd be tempted to buy new just for the reassurance.
 
stew1982 said:
There's only one version, I'd be careful buying one from ebay, and consider finding one you can pick-up and therefore inspect first. for £150, think 'd be tempted to buy new just for the reassurance.
Click to expand...

True, but if you can find one in mint condition and with insurance (like my f/4L) then go for it
 
stew1982 said:
There's only one version, I'd be careful buying one from ebay, and consider finding one you can pick-up and therefore inspect first. for £150, think 'd be tempted to buy new just for the reassurance.
Click to expand...
One sold on ebay that was in mint condition (according to the description anyway) that was about 2 miles from me. I was on at my computer when the auction ended though so I missed it. :'(


If I bought a second hand one how could I test if it was a sharp copy? Is there a test card that can be printed and photographed to get at least some idea?
 
EMA747 said:
One sold on ebay that was in mint condition (according to the description anyway) that was about 2 miles from me. I was on at my computer when the auction ended though so I missed it. :'(


If I bought a second hand one how could I test if it was a sharp copy? Is there a test card that can be printed and photographed to get at least some idea?
Click to expand...

I would try some portraits just to confirm it is accurate (that is with the centre spot AF) and sharp enough at f/2.8 and all key focal lengths, then do some shooting wide open at infinity. Make sure to find a well lit scene with lots of details across the frame. Finally do some brick wall shots. Shoot RAW and analyse on computer, not on camera. If they look OK at 100% magnification with no sharpening at all then it is a good one. Make sure there is no 'soft side' and it focuses exactly where you intended. This lens (unlike some others) is meant to be near perfect.

I am sure you could google for 'lens test chart download'. Make sure you stand well back.

You could also use live view to confirm if it focuses correctly (ie. use tripod, focus, then switch to LV and try tweak focus - or focus manually on LV, switch to auto and watch if the distance scale indicator moves).
 
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