Im a surf photography or at least I would like to think so. The version II not being a push pull is a major winner for me.

I was a little skeptical when a Canon representative told me that the new Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM lens ($2,199) is just as good as the EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM , the best zoom lens of that range we've tested.

Incredibly sharp throughout zoom range; Optically stabilized; Quick focus; 1:3 magnification; Relatively compact

Pricey; Some barrel distortion at 100mm

Canon has had 15 years to get the 100-400mm F4.5-5.6L IS USM Mark II right, and produce a worthy successor to the venerable, but still very capable original. And it has. The new Mk II has less in the way of revolutionary new features, as the Mk I was pretty well specified anyway, and Canon has...

The Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM is a very capable but also pricey telephoto zoom lens that will appeal most to sports and wildlife photographers looking for a relatively lightweight and versatile lens.

The Canon 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 IS USM Mark II has been worth waiting for, now with unrivalled all-round telezoom versatility. It rates best in class for sharpness, AF performance, image stabilization, close focusing and build quality. Canon has done a very thorough job and it's still good value, too.

Sports , wildlife and nature. Candids, and studio portraiture too at shorter focal lengths.;

Situations when only f/2.8 will do, or being discreet;

This is an outstanding lens - definitely one of Canon's greatest. It also seems well priced in comparison to Canon's other super telephoto lens options.I've been using it professionally for over a year now.

Sharpness; macro capability; fast autofocus; build quality; image stabiliser; price

5.6 at 400mm

Initially, I was hesitant to upgrade from my Canon EF 100 - 400mm IS I to the ISII. After all, I had taken some great photos with the original lens. My primary use of this lens is wildlife photography, for which this lens offers a practical alternative for those who cannot afford the 'big guns'.

Given its substantial cost, it took me a long time to decide to buy this lens. I'm so glad I did. It has lived up to and surpassed all my expectations. The lens is super sharp of course, but it's the image stabilisation and focus speed that make it a joy to use.

This lens is just awesome..super happy, image quality is mind blowing.

This is a great lens. When I borrowed on my son told me, "These are the best freakin pictures you have ever taken." The next day I purchased one from Digital Goja through Amazon. The questions I had were answered quickly. All the products arrived as promised.