Canon

EF 500mm F/4L IS II USM

Super Telephoto Lens

The EF 500mm f/4 IS II USM from Canon is a L-series super telephoto lens, ideal for sports and wildlife photography. While it is designed for use with full-frame Canon EF-mount DSLRs, it can also be used with APS-C models where it will provide a truly impressive 800mm equivalent focal length. This is combined with a bright f/4 maximum aperture that offers control over depth of field for working with selective focus techniques. It also features an advanced four stop-effective Image Stabiliser system that offers three separate stabilisation modes to suit a variety of applications. In addition to the standard and panning mode the third mode activates the stabiliser only when the shutter is released.

Optically, the lens uses a pair of fluorite elements and four aspherical elements to greatly reduce chromatic and spherical aberrations for sharp, clear images, with accurate colour. A Sub Wavelength Coating has also been applied to individual lens elements, and further contributes to colour accuracy by working to control flare and ghosting when working in backlit and harsh lighting conditions. A rounded nine-blade diaphragm contributes to a pleasing out of focus quality that benefits the use of shallow depth of field and selective focus techniques.

This is complimented by a ring-type Ultrasonic Motor (USM) that ensures autofocus is fast and quiet, with full-time manual focus override. For video shooters, a power focus mode is also present, allowing for smooth focus changes during shooting. A Focus Preset function is included to quickly recall a programmed focusing position, and a Focus Limiter switch allows you to restrict the focusing to suit different applications. There are three different ranges available: 12.1-32.8', 12.1'-infinity, or 32.8'-infinity.