The Canon EF 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6 L IS USM is an incredibly versatile “superzoom” lens, offering an expansive 11x focal range from wide-angle to powerful telephoto. It features built-in Optical Image Stabilisation (IS) for sharp handheld shooting and a fast, quiet ring-type USM autofocus system. While its aperture varies, it provides a comprehensive all-in-one solution for documentary, travel, and run-and-gun videography, minimizing the need for lens changes. Its robust L-series construction ensures reliability in diverse environments.
Overview
- Incredibly versatile “superzoom” lens
- Expansive 11x focal range (28-300mm)
- Built-in Optical Image Stabilisation (IS)
- Fast and quiet ring-type USM autofocus
- Robust, weather-sealed L-series construction
- Ideal for all-in-one documentary, travel, and run-and-gun videography
- Minimises the need for lens changes
- Convenient push-pull zoom mechanism
Ultimate All-in-One Lens
Its unparalleled 11x zoom range (from wide 28mm to super telephoto 300mm) makes it the single most versatile lens for situations where changing lenses is impractical or impossible, such as documentaries or travel.
Effective Image Stabilisation
The built-in Optical Image Stabilisation (IS) is crucial for achieving stable handheld shots across such a vast focal range, significantly reducing camera shake.
Fast & Quiet Autofocus
The ring-type USM provides quick, precise, and virtually silent autofocus, making it dependable for capturing diverse subjects from various distances.
L-Series Durability
As an L-series lens, it’s built to Canon’s professional standards, offering robust construction and dust/weather sealing for reliability in challenging environments.
Convenient Push-Pull Zoom
Features a push-pull zoom mechanism, which can be faster for quick focal length changes, though it may take some getting used to.
Compromises for Versatility
While incredibly versatile, its variable aperture and optical complexity mean it won’t offer the absolute sharpness or low-light performance of dedicated primes or faster zooms, but it prioritises convenience.