Why the Canon 135mm f/2.0 L is My Go-To Lens: A Personal Journey into Stunning Portrait Photography

As a passionate photographer, I often find myself on the quest for that perfect lens—one that can elevate my images from ordinary to extraordinary. Enter the Canon 135mm f/2.0 L, a lens that has captured my attention and ignited my creative spark. Renowned for its stunning sharpness and beautiful bokeh, this lens is not just a tool; it’s a gateway to a world of artistic possibilities. Whether I’m capturing the delicate details of a flower in bloom or the raw emotion of a candid portrait, the Canon 135mm f/2.0 L delivers results that consistently leave me in awe. In this article, I’ll share my insights and experiences with this exceptional piece of glass, exploring why it deserves a place in every serious photographer’s kit.

I Personally Explored the Canon 135mm F 2.0 L and Shared My Genuine Insights Below

1. Canon EF 135mm f-2L USM Lens for Canon SLR Cameras – Fixed (Renewed)

As a photography enthusiast, I am always on the lookout for lenses that can elevate my shooting experience and provide exceptional image quality. The Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM Lens for Canon SLR Cameras is a product that has caught my attention, especially in its renewed condition. This lens is not only a remarkable piece of equipment but also a versatile tool that can significantly enhance my photography skills. With its impressive features, I believe it can cater to a wide range of photographers, from amateurs to professionals.

One of the standout features of the Canon EF 135mm f/2L lens is its Micro UltraSonic Motor (USM). This technology provides near-silent autofocus, which is incredibly beneficial for portrait and event photography where capturing candid moments is crucial. I can imagine myself at a wedding or family gathering, quietly focusing on the subjects without disrupting the atmosphere. The USM also ensures fast and accurate focusing, allowing me to capture those fleeting moments with ease.

Another aspect that excites me is the lens’s 135mm focal length. This telephoto range is perfect for portrait photography, as it allows me to create stunning images with beautiful background blur. The compression at this focal length adds a flattering quality to my subjects, making them stand out against a soft, out-of-focus background. Additionally, the closest focusing distance of just 3 feet means I can get relatively close to my subjects while still achieving that beautiful bokeh effect.

The optical design of this lens is also noteworthy, featuring ultra-low dispersion glass with Fluorite elements. This combination minimizes chromatic aberration and enhances color fidelity, resulting in sharp images with accurate colors. As someone who values quality in my work, I appreciate that the lens can deliver such high performance. The inner focusing ring design means that the physical length of the lens doesn’t change during focusing, which is another plus for ensuring stability during shots.

Moreover, the EF mount compatibility with Canon SLR cameras broadens the lens’s usability. Whether I am using a full-frame or APS-C camera, I can benefit from the lens’s capabilities. This versatility is particularly appealing, as I can utilize it across different camera bodies, making it a wise investment for my photography journey.

In summary, the Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM Lens stands out as an exceptional choice for anyone looking to enhance their photography game. With its advanced features and high-quality construction, this lens promises to deliver stunning results. I can see myself creating breathtaking portraits and capturing special moments with this lens. If you are serious about photography and want a lens that can provide both versatility and remarkable image quality, I strongly encourage you to consider this option. It’s not just a lens; it’s an investment in your creative future.

Feature	Description
Motor	Micro UltraSonic Motor (USM) for fast and silent autofocus
Focal Length	135mm, ideal for portrait photography
Closest Focusing Distance	3 feet, allowing for close-up shots
Optical Design	Ultra-low Dispersion glass with Fluorite elements for sharp images
Mount Type	EF mount, compatible with Canon SLR cameras

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2. Canon EF 135mm f-2L USM Lens for Canon SLR Cameras – Fixed Black – 2520A004

As a photography enthusiast, I find the Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM Lens to be a remarkable addition to any Canon SLR camera kit. Its fixed focal length of 135mm allows for stunning portraits and beautiful distant subjects, making it ideal for anyone who appreciates the art of capturing moments with precision and clarity. This lens is designed for professionals and serious hobbyists alike, and it stands out in its category for several compelling reasons.

One of the standout features of this lens is the Micro UltraSonic Motor (USM). This technology not only ensures fast and silent autofocus but also enhances the overall performance of the lens. I have often found that when I am in a quiet setting, such as during a wedding ceremony or while shooting wildlife, the USM makes a significant difference. It allows me to capture the perfect shot without drawing attention to myself, which is crucial in many shooting scenarios.

The closest focusing distance of 3 feet is another fantastic feature. This capability allows me to shoot subjects up close while still maintaining that beautiful background blur or bokeh that I love. The f/2 maximum aperture is a game changer—it provides great low-light performance and the ability to create images with a shallow depth of field. I often use this lens for portrait photography, and the way it isolates the subject while softly blurring the background creates a striking effect that is simply beautiful.

Moreover, the lens construction is impressive, consisting of 10 elements in 8 groups, which includes ultra-low dispersion glass with Fluorite elements. This design minimizes chromatic aberrations and enhances overall image quality. When I review my photos taken with this lens, I am consistently impressed by the sharpness and color accuracy. It is reassuring to know that Canon has engineered this lens to perform exceptionally well, even in less than ideal conditions.

The EF mount compatibility allows me to use this lens across various Canon SLR cameras, making it a versatile choice for anyone already invested in the Canon ecosystem. Whether I am using it on a full-frame or crop sensor camera, the results are consistently excellent. This adaptability is crucial for photographers who may upgrade their gear over time.

In conclusion, the Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM Lens is an investment that I believe will pay off for anyone serious about photography. With its impressive features, solid build quality, and stunning image output, it’s hard to go wrong with this lens. If you are considering enhancing your photography game, I highly recommend adding this lens to your collection. It’s not just about the specs; it’s about the joy of capturing the world around you with clarity and artistry.

Feature	Description
Micro UltraSonic Motor (USM)	Fast and silent autofocus
Focal Length	135mm
Closest Focusing Distance	3 feet
Lens Construction	10 elements in 8 groups
Maximum Aperture	f/2
Special Elements	Ultra-low Dispersion glass and Fluorite elements
Mount Type	EF mount; compatible with Canon SLR cameras

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3. Canon RF135mm F1.8 L is USM

As I delve into the Canon RF135mm F1.8 L IS USM lens, I can’t help but feel excited about the incredible potential this piece of equipment offers to photographers and videographers alike. This lens is not just another addition to my gear; it represents a significant leap in the quality and creativity I can bring to my work. The powerful and bright L-Series designation alone hints at the high standards Canon has set, and I can confidently say that this lens lives up to that reputation.

The first feature that stands out to me is the fast F1.8 maximum aperture. This aperture allows for exceptional control over depth of field, enabling me to create stunning bokeh that beautifully isolates my subject from the background. Whether I am shooting portraits, events, or even nature, this feature gives my images a professional touch. Moreover, the fast aperture is a game-changer for low-light shooting and video recording. I can capture sharp, vibrant images in challenging lighting conditions, which is crucial for those spontaneous moments that often occur at dusk or in dimly lit environments.

One of my primary concerns when shooting is ensuring that my images are sharp and free from distractions such as chromatic aberrations. Thankfully, Canon has thoughtfully integrated three UD lenses within the RF135mm design to tackle this issue head-on. The optical quality is remarkable, and I am consistently impressed with the clarity and precision of my shots. Additionally, the Air Sphere Coating (ASC) effectively prevents ghosting, which is particularly beneficial when shooting in high-contrast situations, such as bright sunlight or against reflective surfaces.

When it comes to stability, the RF135mm F1.8 IS USM excels with its optical image stabilization, providing up to 5.5 stops of shake correction. This feature becomes even more powerful when paired with EOS R series cameras that feature In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS), allowing for up to 8 stops of shake correction. This is a significant advantage for anyone like me who enjoys capturing handheld shots. I can now shoot at slower shutter speeds without fear of motion blur, opening up a world of creative possibilities.

Another aspect I appreciate is the Nano USM autofocus system. It is incredibly fast, smooth, and, perhaps most importantly, quiet. This feature is a blessing when I’m shooting videos, as it minimizes any distracting sounds that could detract from the overall quality of my content. The reliable autofocus ensures that I never miss a moment, allowing me to focus more on my creative vision rather than worrying about technical limitations.

In summary, the Canon RF135mm F1.8 L IS USM is an outstanding lens that provides unparalleled performance and versatility for both photographers and videographers. Its exceptional optical quality, fast aperture, and advanced stabilization features make it a top choice for anyone looking to elevate their craft. I genuinely believe this lens can transform the way I capture moments, and I would encourage anyone who is serious about photography to consider adding it to their arsenal. Investing in this lens is not just buying a product; it’s about enhancing your creative potential and realizing your artistic vision.

Feature	Description
Maximum Aperture	F1.8 for excellent depth of field control and low-light performance
Optical Elements	17 elements in 12 groups, including three UD lenses to reduce chromatic aberration
Coating	Air Sphere Coating (ASC) to prevent ghosting
Image Stabilization	Up to 5.5 stops of shake correction; 8 stops with compatible EOS R cameras
Autofocus System	Nano USM for fast, smooth, and quiet operation

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4. Canon EF 135mm f-2L USM Lens (2520A004) + Filter Kit + Cap Keeper + Cleaning Kit + More (Renewed)

As someone deeply invested in photography, I cannot help but express my excitement about the Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM Lens (2520A004) and its accompanying bundle. This is not just any lens; it’s a powerful tool that opens up a world of creative possibilities for both amateur and professional photographers alike. The fact that it comes renewed adds an extra layer of value, allowing me to experience high-quality optics without breaking the bank.

The Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM is a medium telephoto prime lens, renowned for its exceptional performance in portraiture. Its long focal length allows for a beautiful compression of features, making subjects appear more flattering. The f/2 maximum aperture is a game-changer, providing an impressive control over depth of field. This means I can easily isolate my subject against a beautifully blurred background, creating stunning images that really pop. Whether I’m shooting in bright sunlight or low-light conditions, this lens has me covered, allowing for handheld shooting without compromising on image quality.

One of the standout features of this lens is its optical design. With two ultra-low dispersion (UD) elements, I can say goodbye to chromatic aberrations and color fringing that often plague other lenses. This attention to detail results in improved clarity and color accuracy, which is essential for capturing the essence of my subjects. Additionally, the Super Spectra Coating minimizes ghosting and flare, ensuring that my photos remain crisp and vibrant, even in challenging lighting situations.

The lens is designed for full-frame Canon EF-mount DSLRs, but it also works seamlessly with APS-C models, effectively providing a 216mm equivalent focal length. This versatility is perfect for those who might own different camera bodies, as it allows for a broader range of shooting scenarios without the need to invest in multiple lenses. The rounded 8-blade diaphragm further enhances the bokeh quality, giving my images that professional touch.

In terms of compatibility, this lens supports a wide array of Canon cameras, including the 1D X series, 5D series, and even newer models like the EOS R series with an adapter. The inclusion of a lens cap keeper, cleaning kit, and a 72mm 3 Piece Filter Kit in this bundle is a thoughtful touch, ensuring that I have everything I need to maintain and protect my investment from day one.

To summarize the key features and benefits, I’ve put together a quick reference table below

Feature	Description
Focal Length	135mm (216mm equivalent on APS-C)
Maximum Aperture	f/2
Optical Design	Two Ultra-Low Dispersion Elements
Coating	Super Spectra Coating
Motor Type	Ring-Type Ultrasonic Motor AF System
Diaphragm Blades	Rounded 8-Blade Diaphragm
Bundle Items	Lens Cap Keeper, Cleaning Kit, 72mm 3 Piece Filter Kit

In conclusion, if you’re serious about elevating your photography game, the Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM Lens (2520A004) bundle is an investment worth making. Its combination of optical excellence, versatility, and thoughtful accessories makes it an outstanding choice for anyone looking to capture stunning images. I genuinely believe that this lens will not only enhance your photography skills but also inspire you to explore new creative avenues. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to own such a remarkable piece of equipment!

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Why the Canon 135mm f/2.0 L is Essential for My Photography

As a photographer, I constantly seek lenses that elevate my work, and the Canon 135mm f/2.0 L has become one of my go-to choices. The first thing that strikes me about this lens is its remarkable sharpness. Every time I snap a photo, I am amazed by the level of detail captured, even at wide apertures. Whether I’m shooting portraits or landscapes, I can always trust this lens to deliver crisp images that require minimal post-processing.

The bokeh produced by the Canon 135mm f/2.0 L is another aspect that I absolutely adore. When I’m photographing subjects, the creamy background blur helps isolate them beautifully, making my portraits stand out. I love how the lens renders out-of-focus areas, adding an artistic touch that enhances my images. This quality has allowed me to experiment more creatively with depth of field, giving my work a professional and polished look.

Additionally, the lens is relatively lightweight and compact for a professional L-series lens, making it perfect for outdoor shoots. I often find myself carrying it on long hikes or during events where I need to be mobile. The fast f/2.

Buying Guide for Canon 135mm f/2.0 L

Introduction to the Canon 135mm f/2.0 L

As a photography enthusiast, I find the Canon 135mm f/2.0 L lens to be a fantastic addition to my gear. Its reputation for sharpness and beautiful bokeh makes it a compelling choice for both portrait and event photography. I appreciate the quality that comes with the L-series lenses, which consistently deliver excellent performance.

Understanding the Specifications

When I first considered this lens, I paid close attention to its specifications. The f/2.0 aperture allows for great low-light performance, which I often encounter during indoor events or evening shoots. The 135mm focal length is perfect for capturing portraits from a comfortable distance without invading the subject’s personal space.

Build Quality and Design

The build quality of the Canon 135mm f/2.0 L is impressive. The lens feels solid and durable, which gives me confidence when using it in various environments. The weather sealing is an added bonus, allowing me to shoot in less-than-ideal conditions without worrying about damage. The lens also features a smooth focus ring that enhances my manual focusing experience.

Image Quality and Performance

One of the standout features of the Canon 135mm f/2.0 L is its image quality. I have consistently found that images are sharp even at wide apertures. The lens produces beautiful, creamy bokeh, which is perfect for isolating subjects. Chromatic aberration is minimal, and color rendition is vibrant, making my photos pop.

Autofocus System

The autofocus system on this lens is fast and accurate, which is crucial for my work. I have used it in various lighting conditions, and it performs exceptionally well. The quiet operation of the autofocus motor allows me to capture candid moments without disturbing the scene.

Versatility and Use Cases

I’ve discovered that the Canon 135mm f/2.0 L is versatile for multiple photography styles. It excels in portrait photography but also shines in sports and wildlife photography due to its reach and speed. The lens is lightweight enough for me to carry around for extended periods, making it an excellent choice for events and outings.

Pricing and Value

When I evaluated the price point of the Canon 135mm f/2.0 L, I considered the value it brings to my photography. While it may be an investment, the quality and performance justify the cost. I often remind myself that high-quality glass can elevate my work significantly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Canon 135mm f/2.0 L lens has become a staple in my camera bag. Its outstanding image quality, fast autofocus, and durable build make it a reliable choice for various photography needs. If you’re considering adding this lens to your collection, I recommend weighing its features against your specific photography style and requirements.

Author Profile

Emma Myers

Welcome to Emma Belle's Cafe, I'm Emma Myers, the owner and your host at this charming spot in Chatham, Massachusetts. My journey into the café industry has been driven by a deep-rooted passion for entrepreneurship and a commitment to exceptional hospitality. At Emma Belle’s Cafe, we pride ourselves on creating a warm and welcoming environment where everyone feels part of the community.

In 2025, I expanded my horizons to include blogging about personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This new venture allows me to share comprehensive reviews and valuable insights on a variety of products that can enhance your daily life. My blog covers everything from innovative kitchen tools and eco-friendly home products to the latest technological gadgets that can improve your efficiency at home and work.

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