Canon’s 135mm f/2 Lens Gains Popularity Among Landscape Photographers

UPDATE: The Canon 135mm f/2 lens is rapidly gaining traction among landscape photographers, presenting a compelling alternative to modern glass. This classic lens, originally launched in April 1996, is currently available on the secondhand market for a remarkable price range of $500-$600 in the UK, making it an attractive option for both beginners and seasoned photographers.

The surge in interest surrounding this lens stems from its impressive performance and affordability compared to contemporary models that can exceed $2,000. Photographers are increasingly discovering that older technology can yield stunning results without breaking the bank. Fred van Leeuwen, a UK-based photographer and filmmaker with over 15 years of experience, emphasizes how this lens has transformed his approach to landscape photography.

Since acquiring the 135mm f/2, van Leeuwen has shifted his focus from wide-angle landscapes to a more minimalist style, allowing for clearer compositions that emphasize essential details. The lens’s large aperture and sharpness make it ideal for capturing breathtaking images while minimizing distractions in the frame. This has led to a renewed passion for landscape photography for van Leeuwen, who has redefined how he evaluates scenes during outdoor shoots.

Additionally, the lens’s unique compression properties enable photographers to create stunning panoramas with minimal distortion. Van Leeuwen has utilized this capability, resulting in exceptional Brenizer Method panoramas that showcase intricate details of the landscape. While autofocus may not match today’s advanced mirrorless technology, its performance remains satisfactory, especially for those who prefer manual focus during video shoots.

The 135mm f/2 lens has also proven effective for videography, delivering soft, pleasing bokeh and vibrant color reproduction. Despite minor chromatic aberration that can easily be corrected in post-processing, the quality achieved at wide apertures is a significant advantage for videographers working in low-light conditions.

Photographers are now sharing their success stories with this lens, noting its versatility in various applications, including astrophotography. Users report that the lens handles infrared filters exceptionally well, making it a valuable tool for those exploring different photographic styles. With comparable lenses still priced around $1,000 or more, the 135mm f/2 stands out as a cost-effective solution.

While it lacks modern weather sealing, van Leeuwen asserts that the lens’s robust all-metal construction ensures durability, reminiscent of the quality found in older gear. He advises caution when using the lens in inclement weather but believes its performance justifies the risk.

As the photography community rallies around the 135mm f/2, this lens is being hailed as a hidden gem—one that any Canon shooter should consider adding to their kit. Van Leeuwen’s only regret? Not purchasing it sooner.

With the growing popularity of this lens, photographers are encouraged to explore its potential and share their experiences. The Canon 135mm f/2 is not just a purchase; it’s an investment in creativity that promises to redefine how landscape photographers capture the world around them.

Stay tuned for further updates as more photographers join the movement surrounding this iconic lens.