Brett scores the Canon EF 16–35mm f/2.8 L IS II USM zoom lens 7 on a scale of 1 to 10.
I use the Canon EF 16–35mm f/2.8 L IS II USM zoom lens for most of the jobs I shoot. I think of it as my “scene setter” lens. It is a great lens for shooting large groups at apertures of f/8–f/11. I’ve discovered that this Canon zoom lens is a little soft at the edges, especially at larger apertures: approximately f/2.8–f/4, although it’s a vast improvement compared to the I model.
To be honest, I mostly use this lens for my “ big flash” shots when I want to include much of the scene as well as the wedding couple. For these images, I tend to select f/11–f/16. Honestly, the alternative Canon EF 17–40mm f/4 L lens would be worth considering, especially since it is half the price! I know some photographers who tape the 16–35mm f/2.8 at 35mm, so it is more useful.
These are my opinions on how I use this lens every day of my life. If it feels good in my hands, then I use it! This equipment is an extension of my eye and how I see my world and the social world within which I work. That was why I started to use Canon products more than 20 years ago. If a piece of equipment allows you to capture your vision, then use it. It is only when a piece of equipment is a hindrance that you should change it.
If you would like to see more examples of my work please go to www.brettharknessphotography.com.
You can also join me on Facebook, Twitter (@brettharkness), Instagram and Flikr. You’re also invited to visit our wonderful training site with a host of information to watch, read and download: www.brettharknessphotography.com/training
The opinions in this article are those of Brett Harkness and are not necessarily endorsed by PhotographyTalk.
About Brett Harkness: Brett Harkness is a highly regarded UK photographer, who, with Kristie, his wife and business partner, specialize in in all forms of social photography, both studio and outdoors, in the UK and overseas. Brett was born during 1972, and was graduated from Nottingham Trent University, where he studied photography. He spent the next 5 years working on board cruise ships in America and the Caribbean, where he learned the basics of working with a great diversity of people, as he photographed their vacation activities as guests. Couples around the globe seek Brett’s signature style for their wedding photography. He and his wife operate a studio and training facility in a converted wood mill outside of Manchester, England. They offer courses in lighting, lifestyle, and wedding photography.
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