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I feel this to be one of the most useful lenses ever built by Canon. Worthy of the Luxury (L) label it bears, the image and build quality are both excellent. This "Super Zoom" is so titled for its ability to be a "one lens fits all" solution. It comes as close to that goal as any lens probably ever will. While the newer replacement 28-300mm lens offers image stabilization (IS) and a greater 11X zoom range, I find the zoom range of this older model to be better for use with my full frame EOS 5D. It seems logical that with the popularity of the new APS-C digital cameras, the move to a 28-300mm was needed for better wide angle coverage. However, when using a full frame film or digital camera the 35mm focal length is plenty wide and I find the extra range (350mm) on the telephoto side to be very desirable. Another observation is that the 35-350mm lens works well with the Extender 1.4X and can also be used with the Extender 2X in manual focus mode. Image quality with the extenders is good and both will also improve on the .25X macro capabilities of the lens. Price is the best advantage of this lens as mint copies can be purchased for around 1K while the newer 28-300mm lens retails for well over 2K. As long as you are fine with the push/pull zoom design, you really can't go wrong by owning this lens. As previously noted, this lens may be slightly more useful with full frame cameras because of the better wide angle support. *** 2011 Update *** Sadly, I have just learned that Canon no longer services this lens as of 1/1/2011. If you need service/support, you will have to get it from a non-manufacturer service center. I phoned several and found that many will not service the lens for a lack of available parts. While I still use this lens daily, I have recently purchased the newer 28-300mm as it has a longer service life.Read full review
Beautiful contrast on the newest DSLR's and Canon Cinema cameras. Auto Focus is not fast but it is reliable with adequate light. This lens makes a great addition to your video kit when you have a sturdy tripod. Despite the small focus ring , manual focus is easy enough if you have a proper viewing system. These lenses are a bargain and, considering the build quality and zoom range, worth their market prices. Although no longer serviced by Canon, they may still have a lot of life in them.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
I shoot mostly sports. When it comes to covering outside sports, the Canon ef 35-350mm lens does a great job so long as the sun has not set. I do not need two cameras, one for up close and the second to reach out across the field. Most indoor and outdoor lighting is not bright enough to stop action. The push-pull zoom cannot be controlled as well as the twist-turn, but for a 10x zoom, I will take it. The push-pull zoom is not as smooth at 300-350mm range as it is from 35-300mm. I cannot compare it's sharpness to long prime lenses that I don't own. It is sharp enough that I am pleased with the results. For an older lens, it work well. I plan to keep using it until I can find and afford something better.
If I have to take only one lens into a unknown situation, I take this lens. This is one of the best general purpose lenses that Canon has made. The 10X zoom factor covers the wide angle to super zoom. For camera owners with a multiplication factor (1.6) this is a great standard (56mm) to super zoom (560mm)lens. This might be the best image quality lens that Canon makes (or has made), but if you can only afford to buy one lens this should be high on your list.
I've used this lens now for 6 months after purchasing second hand from Japan. Although it's not cheap it's worth every penny. I use mine on an EOS 550D body and I find the range very handy for most situations. With good technique it's possible to hand hold moving subjects at full magnification achieving stunning sharpness and clarity. It's built like a tank which actually aids stability, especially on a tripod where it resists wind movement due to its weight. The sharpness of this lens is superb, especially considering it's wide focal range and is without doubt the best investment I have made.
Verified purchase: No
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