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Next-generation super telephoto L-series lens with an Image Stabilizer, it's one of the world's best lenses for wildlife and nature photography. The optical system is newly designed with a maximum aperture of f/4. One fluorite element and two UD-glass elements effectively correct aberrations resulting in sharp and excellent delineation.
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Technical Details
- EF mount; super telephoto lens- Fluorite and Ultra-low Dispersion-glass; image stabilizer; internal focusing; full-time manual focus
- 500mm focal length
- f/4 maximum aperture
- Ring-type UltraSonic Motor (USM)
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By Bryan Matthew
Deciding between this lens and the 600/4L IS was indeed a chore - but I convinced myself that if I were to buy the 600/4, I would not even bother taking it on hikes due to the extreme weight. I would also need to upgrade my tripod to a heavy Gitzo GT3541LS Series 3 Long 6X Carbon Fiber 4-Section Systematic Tripod with G-Lock - Replaces GT3540LS, and get a full proper Wimberly II Gimbal Head.
(I currently use a Gitzo GT2542L Series 2 6X Carbon Fiber 4-Section Tripod with G-Lock - Replaces GT2541L, and a Jobu Design BWG-LW2 Black Widow Lightweight MK-II Gimbal Head for 200 f/2.8, 300 f/2.8, 70-200 f/2.8 Lenses for my gimbal needs)
Though if I had the money, i'de go for the 800/5.6L IS instead due to the extreme reach on a FF body, and no longer the need to use a crop body (you lose the outer "bokeh" and vignetting).
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1-month update
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After being able to use it for 1 month now, it simply confirms that the 500mm f/4L IS was the right choice over the 600mm f/4L IS. Though often I wish I didn't have to use extenders on my 1Ds III, I quite like the fact that I can hand-hold this lens all day for nature photography.
One day soon i'll get the 800mm f/5.6L IS, but until then the 500mm f/4L IS is an excellent lens for the price you pay.
By Marsha Elder
I don't know what I could say that has't already been said but here goes. This is an absolute beast of a lens in quality, price and weight. It's 8.6 lbs put it just on the edge of being handholdable, which I've managed to do on a two hour boat wildlife safari (with breaks of course). If you need 500mm, get it because once you get the hang of shooting with a supertele, you won't be disappopinted with the photos.
The biggest problem with the lens is the unwanted attention and questions. I've already missed some opportunites because I was answering questions instead of paying attention to the action, a raptor and shorebird aerial fight!! Oh well, I've come to accept that the attention is just going to come with the territory. I'll have to work on my game face so I don't get interrupted too much.
By DocKayT (Danbury, CT)
I ordered this lens via Amazon from Calumet and it arrived ahead of schedule and was perfectly wrapped. I have not had a chance yet to shoot in the field but "tested" the lens in the backyard. Image quality is what I expected after having read a lot of reviews here and elsewhere.
For those considering this lens, however, it appears worth mentioning you be aware of the consequences: You will most probably need another tripod since this lens is heavy. Only high quality heavy duty tripods will do it. Also, like me, you may not have owned a premier class ballhead or gimbal head. This will cost you a lot. Carefully look if you can mount a 500mm f4 on either. Some manufactures explicitly recommend not to use with this lens although the reported weight load would allow to do so. You will need to research a lot. Further, you need another backpack! Honestly, there is not too much to chose from. The Tamrac 5589 Expedition 9x Backpack for DSLR Camera, Flash with Accessories, Black is a good option but some airlines will not accept its size for cabin luggage.
In conclusion, this lens is a major upgrade in your telephoto portfolio but may require an upgrade of your overall gear. Certainly well known to Pros but a learning process for enthusiasts like me.
By Digital Wizard (U.S.A.)
This lens is simply to die for. Yes, it's big, heavy and expensive, but it does the job incredibly well. If you've never shot with a super-tele the heft and reach take some getting used to at first but once you are comfortable with it be prepared for stunning images.
Hand holding isn't exactly a lot of fun. It's possible if you're not a 97lb. weakling, but not the best way to get quality shots. For sports shooters a monopod is almost manditory, and if you're a bird or nature photographer a good tripod at bare minumum and even a gimbal head are wise investments.
Buy it, use it, love it.
By Joe West (Hawaii)
I debated between the Canon 500mm and 600mm and, finally, decided to go with the 500mm as it actually can be hand held for short periods of time if you are fairly strong and athletic. Long story short... this lens is about as good as it gets for wildlife photography. Amazing image quality, even with a 1.4 converter. I have recently made the jump from Canon back to Nikon primarily because of Canon's inconsistent flash metering (are you listening Canon??)... but the 500mm stays in my bag. Even though I'm switching over to Nikon gear for most of my portrait / event / landscape work, I will keep one Canon body just to shoot with the 500mm f/4.0... it's that good -even though it's a bit of hassle working with two different camera systems.
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Buy Canon EF 500mm f/4L IS USM Super Telephoto Lens for Canon SLR Cameras Now
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