Are you a photographer that is trying to figure out what lens you should purchase next?
It’s a big decision, I know!
Camera lenses are expensive and an investment. Different lenses will give you different results and you want to make sure that you’re buying the one that is right for you.
I get asked all the time which lens I shoot with and I’m very vocal about my go to lens. If you’ve been thinking about the 135mm 2.0- even a little bit, I’ll help make your decision a little easier for you. Keep reading and I’ll break down the 5 reasons why I love my Canon 135mm 2.0 lens.
(taken with the 135mm at f/2.5)
Blurry Backgrounds
Probably one of the most common features of a photo shot with the 135mm lens, is that the long focal length gives a beautiful blurred background to your photos. The aperture can be set to as wide as 2.0 to give extra compression, but even with an f stop at 4.0 or smaller, the blur is still awesome!
Sharp Focus
This lens nails focus. If that is something you struggle with, this lens is for you! Even shooting as wide as 2.0, this lens will give tack sharp focus.
(taken with the 135mm at f/2.2)
Lightweight
This lens won’t break your back. Unlike some of the other lenses with focal lengths comparable to the 135mm, the lens is not heavy to carry around. ?In fact, it’s pretty light. You’ll barely notice you’ve got it!
(taken with the 135mm at f/2.8)
Price
Now, it won’t break your back- or the bank either! While it is a pricier lens, it is by far the most affordable of the L series. At just under $1000 this lens is one that you can save up for easily if you really want it! Some similar lenses can go for $2999 or even $5999, making this one a steal.
Speed
(taken with the 135mm at f/2.5)
This lens is fast. Probably one of the reasons that the focus is so sharp when shooting with the lens. There is no lag time. You set it up and shoot.
This lens is my go to lens. I do shoot with the Canon version and so that is where my experience lies, however there are other models made by Nikon and Rokinon that you may want to check out if you prefer a different brand.
Hope this helps you make your decision when purchasing your next lens! Let me know below what lens is you favorite!
Hi Emily. What camera do you use the 135mm with….I have an 80d (crop sensor) would this lens be a good one for me too?
Would you still get the 135 f2.0 if you have a zoom that would cover this range, ie 70-200 f4.0.
Is this lens manual or automatic focus?
Both! I typically use it in manual though.
I agree 100%. I purchased the 100mm macro and the 135. I do a lot of event photography. One day I picked up my 135mm because I was giving it one more go before I sold it thinking I only need one of the two and OMG! Major game changer for me.
And it didn’t break my bank. Right now it’s growing my balance.
I am trying really hard to choose between the 100 2.8 for its macro ability or the 135. There are times I would like to get really close to a subject…..have you shot withthe 100? Any thoughts? I would really appreciate it. I generally shoot portraits.
Hey Mel! I wish I could be of better help, but I have not used the 100. I have considered it for macro shots, but I’m very happy with the 135 so have never added the 100 to my collection. Good luck with whichever lens you decide and feel free to send me some of your shots with either lens 😉 -Emily
Hi Emily!!! how are you? Would you use this lens for a newborn photo shoot??
Thank you 🙂
Hi Maria!
This lens would work for newborn photos, however, you would need to have a lot of space or a bigger studio to really get the most out of it. It also wouldn’t be the only lens that I would use for a newborn session. I like shooting newborns with my 50mm 1.4 🙂 -Emily