Canon 100/2.8 Macro L IS "Test"

[Major Black]

I rented the Canon 100/2.8 L IS and did a test for my purposes. IS is supposed to be limited when near 1:1, for me it did not work at all. Was able to hand-hold at 1/100th and faster, as I already do with my NIkkor 105/2.8.

It is very sharp, a bit bulky compared to the Nikkor (USM motor and IS gerbils). Not that big an improvement over the Nikkor, so I'll pass.

Here are my test samples (this is not a formal test. It's a test for the way I shoot, hand-held, natural light, using my very own one-of-a-kind body to hold the camera even!):










I may rent the Zeiss 100/2 or 50/2 next. Wish I could find a Voigtlander 125/2.

There's a few more images on my blog:
http://markcolman.tv/?p=758

[phule]

Wow, Mark these are really wonderful.

I've been getting out into our (limited) garden lately with the non-IS Canon 100mm f/2.8 and enjoying it quite a bit.  I have a limited window of time but it's been great fun. 

[Major Black]

Yo phule! Thanks! The 100/2.8 is a great lens. The IS did not work for me at all (except for non-macros).

I bought a Contax Zeiss S-Planar 60/2.8 makro! It should be to me in a week. Can't wait.

Glad to hear you've found some time to shoot!

[phule]

I am really jealous of the variety of plants you have available to you.    Are these all on your property?

[Major Black]

I just walk all over Portland. On a typical photo walk I'm out for 2-5 hours. Portland has some great plants but I have to say that LA has a lot more diversity. Not moving back though!

[phule]

2-5 hour walks?  now i'm doubly-jealous.   Looking forward to seeing more images!