The Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM Lens is a legendary Canon L-series telephoto prime built for photographers who demand razor-sharp results in any light. Its ultra-wide f/2 maximum aperture, paired with two UD (Ultra-low Dispersion) glass elements and Super Spectra coatings, delivers stunning subject separation, minimised chromatic aberration, and virtually flare-free images whether you are shooting portraits, indoor sports, or wildlife.
Driven by Canon’s ring-type Ultrasonic Motor (USM), autofocus is near-silent and exceptionally fast, while full-time manual override lets you fine-tune focus without leaving AF mode. Dust- and moisture-resistant construction and a relatively compact 750g body make this EF-mount prime an indispensable tool for professional and enthusiast Canon DSLR shooters alike.
Key features
- Blazing f/2 aperture – enables high-speed shooting in low-light environments such as indoor sports venues and evening portraits, with beautiful background bokeh.
- Two UD glass elements – minimise chromatic aberration and colour fringing, producing images with outstanding sharpness and contrast across the full frame.
- Ring-type USM autofocus – delivers near-instantaneous, whisper-quiet focusing with full-time manual override so you never miss a fleeting moment.
- Super Spectra coatings – suppress flare and ghosting caused by reflections off the camera sensor, ensuring precise clarity and accurate colour rendering.
- E-TTL II flash communication – lens passes distance data to compatible EOS bodies for optimal automatic flash metering in mixed-light situations.
- Dust- and moisture-resistant build – rugged enough for wildlife safaris and adventure photography, weighing just 750g for all-day handheld comfort.
Specifications
| Focal Length | 135mm |
|---|---|
| Maximum Aperture | f/2 |
| Aperture Range | f/2 to f/32 |
| Lens Construction | 10 elements in 8 groups |
| Mount | Canon EF |
| Autofocus Motor | Ring-type Micro Ultrasonic Motor (USM) |
| Closest Focusing Distance | 3 feet (approx. 0.9m) |
| Maximum Magnification | 0.19x |
| Weight | 750g |
| Dimensions (D x L) | 81.3 x 111.8mm |
Frequently asked questions
Which cameras is the Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM compatible with?
The lens uses a Canon EF mount, making it compatible with all Canon EF-mount DSLR cameras, including full-frame EOS bodies. It also works on APS-C EF-mount bodies, where it provides an equivalent field of view of approximately 216mm.
Is the Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM good for portrait photography?
Absolutely. The 135mm focal length and f/2 maximum aperture are a classic portrait combination, producing flattering subject compression and creamy background separation. The UD glass elements ensure the subject is rendered with exceptional sharpness while the bokeh remains smooth.
Does the Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM have image stabilisation?
No, this lens does not include optical image stabilisation. However, its very wide f/2 aperture allows you to use faster shutter speeds in low light, which effectively reduces the risk of motion blur during handheld shooting.
