Canon EF 400mm f/2.8L IS USM Super Telephoto Lens for Canon SLR Cameras

by Canon

• EF mount; super telephoto lens
• Fluorite and Ultra-low Dispersion-glass; image stabilizer; internal focusing; full-time manual focus
• 400mm focal length
• f/2.8 maximum aperture
• Ring-type UltraSonic Motor (USM)

Product Details

• Product Dimensions: 27 x 16 x 15 inches ; 11.8 pounds
• Shipping Weight: 15 pounds
• Shipping: This item is also available for shipping to select countries outside the U.S.
• ASIN: B00009R6X0
• Item model number: 4660A002
• Average Customer Review: 4.9 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (9 customer reviews)
• Date first available at Amazon.com: April 15, 2004

Product Description

From the Manufacturer

Virtually the standard lens for many professional sports shooters, this optical powerhouse is ideal for any film or digital application where you need telephoto power and low-light capability. With one Fluorite element and two UDglass elements, itís one lens you won't need to stop down to get a good image. The Image stabilization only adds to its all-around abilities. Details include a network of weather-resistant seals and gaskets, and a focus preset that enables instant return to a memorized focusing distance.

See a Different Dimension
A super telephoto lens can make an ordinary scene into an extraordinary one. Its ability to see surpasses that of the human eye. It can compress images and make them look as if they come from another dimension. It opens up new realms of photographic expression. All EF super telephoto lenses are L-series lenses to provide the highest quality. The USM provides quiet and high-speed autofocusing. These lenses promise outstanding delineation and put your imagination to the test.

Product Description

Super telephoto L-series lens with an Image Stabilizer for use in track and field sports as well as low-light nature and wildlife photography. The fluorite element and two UD-glass elements result in high resolution and high contrast. The ring USM and an improved AF drive algorithm make the AF speed the fastest in the world when used with the EOS-1v and EOS-3. This lens has the same AF stop and focus preset features as the EF 300mm f/2.8L IS USM.

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

64 of 65 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars One of the World's Best December 24, 2006

By DSPhoto

I consider this lens indispensible for the photography I do (action and sports). It has paid for itself in photographic sales many times over with images that no other lens can take. I combine it with good camera support (Gitzo 1325) and a Wimberly head. With a 1DMk2 body, we're talking over 15 lbs, and that's not something you want to hand hold. The images at f/2.8 are sharp and contrasty. When I nail a shot, the shallow depth of field is breathtaking. It's ability to stop action and to work in low light is amazing. I've had someone ask me how often I use this lens, and the answer is "every chance I get." You want to know how Sports Illustrated Photographers get their shots? This is part of their toolkit.

19 of 19 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars Produces Wow Images November 19, 2007

By Justin Jones

This lens is the tool to get images that jump out at the viewer. As a sports lens I don't know if there is a better solution. It is a lot of weight to pack around, but after one or two games you get used to moving it around. A mono-pod is required for shooting any more than a few shots at a time. Since I purchased this lens it has been attached to my camera exclusively with the exception of one wedding shoot.

12 of 14 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars Worth the heavy load for nature November 9, 2009

By M. Tinker

I consider myself to be a very privileged amateur wildlife photographer simply by being able to own one of these amazing over the top lenses! Its heavy, no mistake, and needs a monopod - I use the Manfrotto 681B.

Only own it if you feel able to throw yourself under it to protect your investment! I consider this ethical issue most early mornings when descending down slopes or climbing over rocks. A sturdy monopod has prevented many serious issues and I have yet to have a hard impact.

I go out early in the morning with it set to a default of F2.8/ISO800 and as the sun rises steadily move to F4/ISO200 ready for quick snaps. I keep a Canon EF 1.4x Extender in my pocket so that I can take small bird shots at 560mm. The extender does reduced the percentage of "keeper" photo's from say 25% down to 10% in typical use.

I have a 24-105/F4, 70-200/F2.8, 400/F5.6, but this is the lens I use for 90% of the time. I often have the 24-105mm or a 10-22mm in my pocket to capture wider shots, but they don't give the mind blowing shots that can only be achieved by one of the big telephoto's.

I considered the 500/F4 because its lighter, but I like the flexibility of 400/560mm and using every last bit of light that's available early in the morning.