Canon EF 28-135mm F3.5-5.6 IS USM

Canon EF

Review

The Canon EF 28-135mm F3.5-5.6 IS USM is a versatile standard zoom lens that has been a popular choice among Canon photographers for many years. Its flexible focal range makes it suitable for various photography styles, ranging from landscapes to portraits.

Build and Design

Constructed with a solid build quality, the EF 28-135mm feels robust in hand. The design features a sleek, black barrel that is aesthetically pleasing and functional. The lens is equipped with a zoom lock switch, ensuring that the lens doesn’t accidentally extend while being carried around, which is a practical addition for photographers always on the move. The 67mm filter thread is also a standard size, making it easy to find UV or polarizing filters.

Optical Performance

This lens features Canon's Image Stabilization (IS), which is particularly beneficial for handheld shooting at slower shutter speeds. Coupled with the USM (Ultrasonic Motor) technology, focusing is fast and near-silent, which is great for video work as well. Image quality is generally good, especially in the central areas of the frame. The zoom range provides versatility, and while the f/3.5-5.6 aperture isn't the fastest, it's still adequate for most everyday situations.

Image Quality

When shooting at its widest aperture, the lens exhibits some softness, particularly at the edges. Sharpness improves significantly when stopping down, so for landscapes or scenes requiring critical sharpness, f/8 or f/11 is recommended. Chromatic aberration can be noticed at certain focal lengths, especially at wide apertures, but it's manageable and can often be corrected in post-processing.

Usability and Versatility

One of the biggest advantages of the Canon EF 28-135mm is its versatility. The zoom range is ideal for travel photography, allowing photographers to capture a wide range of subjects without the need to constantly switch lenses. The lens handles well in various lighting conditions, thanks to the IS feature, and its moderate size makes it a great companion for long outings.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Versatile zoom range from 28mm to 135mm.
• Beneficial Image Stabilization for low-light conditions.
• Fast and quiet focusing thanks to USM technology.
• Good build quality with a quality feel.

Cons

• Soft corners at wide apertures.
• Noticeable chromatic aberration.
• Not the fastest aperture, limiting its low-light performance.

Verdict

The Canon EF 28-135mm F3.5-5.6 IS USM is a capable and versatile lens that caters well to a wide range of photography styles. Its balanced performance, combined with convenient features like Image Stabilization, makes it a solid choice for both beginners and experienced photographers looking for a reliable everyday lens. While it does have its quirks regarding image quality at the edges and in low-light situations, its advantages far outweigh the negatives, making it a worthwhile addition to any Canon EF mount kit.