Summary: Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM Ultra Wide Angle Zoom Lens review

Comment: I am a hobbiest with a 30D.

This is my first 'L' series lens. I stressed over getting the EF-S 10mm-22mm and the f4 versions both of which are half the price of this lens. I went over the reviews here and at FMreviews. Next, I thought about where I would be using this lens. I tend to shoot in lower light situations and I really wanted to see what this 'L' series lens was all about. I also thought about the future and my plan to eventually go to a full frame camera. I didn't want to have to buy another wide angle lens so this is actually a better idea to have one great lens for both bodies. I wish the included hood was a bit wider as it doesn't help with a bright sun overhead. Other than that I'm very happy with my new lens and will look forward to seeing the world larger than before.

Summary: Worth the price over the 17-40mm f/4

Comment: I have both the 16-35MM II and the 17-40mm. At the end of the day the images produced by both lenses are sharp. The main difference is the speed. f/2.8 v f/4. When daylight turns to dusk and you're still shooting (ambient light) the option to open up the lens makes it worth it.

Sure its twice the price but the ability to gather more light to get those shots makes it worth it.

Summary: Perhaps my most versatile lens. Excellent quality!

Comment: I now own 4 "L" lenses (see below). This 16-35mm f/2.8L is perhaps the most versatile for my needs. I often shoot interiors and landscapes at the wider ranges and the overall quality is excellent. The build quality of this lens is superb (as it should be). The lens is fast, quiet, focuses quickly, and I have no complaints. - When I'm shooting indoors where there are lots of people, this is the lens I use.

Canon Digital EOS 40D
Canon EF 50mm f/1.2L USM
Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM
Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM
Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM
Canon EF 1.4X II Extender

Summary: 16-35mm Worth the Extra Money

Comment: I was debating between the cheaper 17-40L and the 16-35mm 2.8 II lenses. There is a significant difference in price between the lenses. In the end, I felt that having the extra stop of light was more important than saving a few dollars. After receiving the lense, I have been nothing be astounded by the quality of photos taken with this lens. Lens build and Image Quality are top notch. While I've seen the 17-40 produce high quality pictures, I wasn't about to sacrificy the F2.8 over the F4.

For those not needing the extra stop of light and plan to do outdoor landscape photography, the 17-40 will work just as well. If you want the extra stop of light or do indoor photography, the 16-35mm is better suited for you.

Summary: Sharp as a blade

Comment: I purchased this lens based on a recommendation from a friend and other reviews I read.

It is absolutely fantastic. From its sharpness to its build, I can not fault this lens. It is a little heavy but it's nicely balanced on a 400D Camera body with battery grip.

The price is very attractive on amazon, as you would see this lens go for around 20-30% more on ebay.

Definitely recommend it if you are serious about your photography.