SLR Geek

Composed of a pair of gyro sensors to detect vertical and horizontal motion and a microprocessor, the IS system compensates camera movement by shifting special lens elements in parallel with the perceived movement. Canon recommended the IS be turned off wh en shooting on a tripod. However I have successfully used the IS on my Bogen 3231 monopod with legs. A monopod is not nearly as stable as a tripod, with or without the legs. Using the IS, it’s possible to obtain sharp pictures three stops below where you normally could. This is a huge advantage in dim light or places where flash is prohibited. Just keep in mind, the IS attempts to eliminate camera movement, not subject movement.

Despite the similarities, these are very different lenses. The Canon EF 28-135mm has a wider focal range with a variable f/3.5-5.6 aperture. The Canon EF 24-105mm L, on the other hand, has a tighter focal range, a constant f/4 aperture, and produces sharper and clearer images. When it comes to Canon lenses, L lenses should outperform similar standard lenses.

L lenses are produced with much higher standards. This L lens is manufactured with a sturdy dust and moisture resistant construction. Eighteen elements in thirteen groups including one Super-UD glass element and three aspherical lenses to minimize chromatic aberration and distortion.

The compact Canon EF 24-105mm IS f/4L lens measures 5 inches long, weighs 1.5 lbs/670 kg, and accepts 77mm filters. It’s a good practice to get a quality UV haze filter to protect the front lens element as Canon recommends. The f/stop ranges from 4 – 22. The closest focusing distance is 18 in/45 cm. In addition, and the pulse control diaphragm (EMD) ensures precise aperture control.

The distance scale ring sits below the focus ring. Turning the distance scale ring all the way to the left sets the lens for low magnification close-up photography. Turning it to the right sets t he lens for infinity compensating for changes in temperature as necessary. The distance scale includes figures in red as an infrared index to use when shooting black and white infrared film.

The Canon EF 24-105mm IS f/4L includes a 1 Year US Warranty, the front & rear lens caps, the LP1219 soft pouch, and the EW-83H lens hood. The hood will decrease chances of lens flare and increase metering accuracy. If you use filters, Canon recommends against stacking.

Having used the Canon EF 24-105mm IS f/4L the difference in weight and length is hardly noticeable. The shorter focal distance is not missed, and I have a constant f/4 throughout the foca l scale unlike the Canon EF 28-135mm with a 5.6-36 on the long focal range. The images using the Canon EF 24-105mm IS f/4L is sharper and clearer than those using the Canon EF 28-135mm.

If the Canon EF 24-105mm f/4.0L IS lens’ price is not a problem, this is the lens to get. Otherwise purchase and enjoy the 28-135mm IS lens. The great thing about Canon lenses is they tend to hold their value. Later if you decide to upgrade from the 28-135mm, sell it on a popular auction site like I did.

PROS:
Compact L standard IS zoom
Excellent walkabout lens
Versatile multipurpose lens

CONS:
A price typically found on L lenses