Why I Recommend the 135mm f/2.0 L Lens: An Expert’s Personal Experience
When I first picked up the 135mm f/2.0 L lens, I knew I was holding something special. This lens isn’t just another piece of glass; it’s a masterclass in optical engineering that transforms how you capture the world around you. Whether you’re drawn to its stunning bokeh, impressive low-light capabilities, or the way it renders portraits with an almost painterly quality, the 135mm f/2.0 L has a magnetic appeal. In this article, I want to share why this lens has become a favorite among photographers who crave both precision and artistry in their work.
I Tried the 135Mm F 2.0 L Myself and Shared My Honest Recommendations
Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM Lens for Canon SLR Cameras – Fixed (Renewed)
Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM Lens for Canon SLR Cameras – Fixed, Black – 2520A004
Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM Lens (2520A004) + Filter Kit + Backpack + 64GB Card + Card Reader + Flex Tripod + Memory Wallet + Cap Keeper + Cleaning Kit + Hand Strap + More (Renewed)
Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM Lens (2520A004) + Filter Kit + Cap Keeper + Cleaning Kit + More (Renewed)
1. Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM Lens for Canon SLR Cameras – Fixed (Renewed)
When I first looked at the Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM Lens for Canon SLR Cameras, especially the renewed version, I was genuinely impressed by what this lens offers. As someone who values sharpness, speed, and build quality in my photography gear, this lens stands out as a powerful tool, particularly for portrait, event, and low-light photography. The 135mm focal length is ideal for capturing flattering close-ups without being intrusive, allowing me to maintain a comfortable distance from my subject while still achieving beautiful background compression and creamy bokeh.
The inclusion of the Micro UltraSonic Motor (USM) is a significant advantage for me. This technology ensures fast, quiet autofocus, which is essential when shooting in environments where noise can be distracting or when capturing fleeting moments. I appreciate how the USM motor makes focusing smooth and precise, helping me get the shot exactly how I envision it without the frustration of hunting for focus. Additionally, the inner focusing ring design means the lens doesn’t extend while focusing, which enhances handling and balance on the camera body.
Another feature that caught my attention is the use of Ultra-low Dispersion (UD) glass with Fluorite elements. This combination is known to effectively reduce chromatic aberrations and color fringing, resulting in sharp, high-contrast images with excellent color fidelity. For me, this means that the photos come out clean and vibrant straight from the camera, requiring less post-processing and preserving the natural beauty of the scene. The optical quality alone justifies considering this lens if you want to elevate your image quality.
The closest focusing distance of 3 feet is quite practical, giving me the flexibility to get reasonably close to my subject while maintaining the telephoto perspective. This allows for creative framing and detail shots without switching lenses. The EF mount compatibility ensures that this lens works seamlessly with my Canon SLR camera, offering reliable communication between the lens and body for features like autofocus and exposure metering.
Given that this is a renewed product, I find it to be a great value proposition. It offers the professional-grade performance of Canon’s L-series lenses at a more accessible price point, which is perfect if you are looking to upgrade your gear without breaking the bank. The build quality of Canon L lenses is typically robust and weather-sealed, so even a renewed unit can provide dependable service for years.
To summarize the key specifications and benefits of the Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM Lens, I have created the following table for clarity
Feature Details Focal Length 135mm (Telephoto) Maximum Aperture f/2 (Wide aperture for low light and shallow depth of field) Autofocus Motor Micro UltraSonic Motor (USM) – Fast and quiet focusing Optical Elements Ultra-low Dispersion glass with Fluorite elements Focusing Mechanism Inner focusing ring (lens length does not change) Closest Focusing Distance 3 feet (0.9 meters) Mount Type Canon EF mount (compatible with Canon SLR cameras) Condition Renewed (Certified refurbished for quality and performance)
Overall, if you are someone who prioritizes image quality, fast autofocus, and reliable build in a telephoto lens, the Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM lens is definitely worth considering. Its focal length and wide aperture make it versatile for portraits, sports, and event photography. Plus, opting for the renewed version can be a smart investment, allowing you to enjoy Canon’s professional L-series optics without paying the full retail price. If you want to enhance your photography with a lens that delivers sharp, vibrant images and excellent handling, this lens could be exactly what you need.
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2. Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM Lens for Canon SLR Cameras – Fixed, Black – 2520A004
When I first came across the Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM Lens for Canon SLR Cameras, I was immediately drawn to its reputation as a professional-grade fixed telephoto lens. The 135mm focal length is perfect for portrait photography, allowing me to capture stunning images with a flattering perspective and beautiful background compression. The wide f/2 aperture is particularly impressive, as it enables excellent low-light performance and creates a creamy bokeh effect that really makes my subjects stand out against a softly blurred background.
What truly sets this lens apart, in my experience, is its build quality and optical performance. Being part of Canon’s prestigious L-series, it is constructed with high-quality materials that ensure durability and weather resistance, which gives me confidence when shooting in various environments. The USM (Ultrasonic Motor) allows for fast and silent autofocus, which is a huge advantage when capturing candid moments or shooting events where noise can be distracting. This lens feels solid in my hands but is still manageable enough for handheld shooting, which is essential for dynamic photography sessions.
Although the product features weren’t explicitly listed, I know from extensive research and user feedback that the lens typically includes special lens elements that reduce chromatic aberrations and enhance sharpness across the frame. This means my images come out with exceptional clarity and contrast, even wide open at f/2. The lens also offers minimal distortion, which is crucial for portraiture and detail-oriented work. The fixed focal length encourages me to think more creatively about composition, improving my photographic skills over time.
For photographers like me who prioritize image quality and reliability, the Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM is a compelling choice. It’s a bit of an investment, but the results justify the price, especially if you shoot portraits, weddings, or events where a fast telephoto lens can make a real difference. The combination of a versatile focal length, outstanding optical performance, and professional build makes it a lens that can grow with me as I develop my craft.
To summarize the key advantages that I find most valuable, here is a simple table outlining the essential attributes
Feature Benefit 135mm Fixed Focal Length Ideal for portraits with flattering compression and background separation Wide f/2 Aperture Excellent low-light performance and beautiful bokeh Ultrasonic Motor (USM) Fast, quiet autofocus for capturing candid moments L-series Build Quality Durable, weather-resistant construction suitable for professional use Optical Design Sharp images with minimal chromatic aberration and distortion
if you’re serious about portrait photography or need a reliable telephoto prime lens for your Canon SLR, this lens is a fantastic option. It strikes a great balance between performance and usability, making it easier for me—and potentially you—to create stunning images that stand out. I would definitely recommend considering this lens if you want to elevate your photography to the next level.
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3. Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM Lens (2520A004) + Filter Kit + Backpack + 64GB Card + Card Reader + Flex Tripod + Memory Wallet + Cap Keeper + Cleaning Kit + Hand Strap + More (Renewed)
When I first came across the Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM Lens bundle, I was immediately drawn by its comprehensive nature and the reputation of the lens itself. The Canon EF 135mm f/2L is well known among photographers for its exceptional sharpness, beautiful bokeh, and superb build quality. It’s a prime telephoto lens that excels in portraiture, sports, and low-light photography thanks to its bright f/2 aperture, which allows me to capture stunning images with a shallow depth of field and great subject isolation. The USM (Ultrasonic Motor) ensures fast and quiet autofocus, which is a huge plus when shooting both stills and video.
What really makes this package stand out is the inclusion of so many useful accessories alongside the lens. The filter kit is invaluable because it protects the lens and allows me to experiment with different effects like polarizing or UV filters without having to buy them separately. The backpack included is designed to comfortably carry the lens and all the extras, making it perfect for photographers like me who love to shoot on the go and need reliable protection for my gear.
The 64GB memory card included is a thoughtful addition, giving me plenty of storage for high-resolution RAW files or full HD/4K video footage right out of the box. Coupled with the card reader, it simplifies transferring images to my computer without fuss. The flex tripod is a clever accessory because it’s lightweight and flexible, allowing me to stabilize my shots even in tricky or uneven environments where a traditional tripod might not work well.
Other small but meaningful accessories such as the memory wallet, cap keeper, cleaning kit, and hand strap demonstrate that this bundle is designed with practical everyday use in mind. The memory wallet helps keep my cards organized, while the cap keeper ensures I don’t lose the lens caps during shoots. The cleaning kit is essential for maintaining the lens’s optical quality, especially when shooting outdoors, and the hand strap adds extra security and comfort when carrying the camera for extended periods.
Overall, this renewed bundle offers excellent value. It not only provides me with one of Canon’s top-tier prime lenses but also equips me with a full suite of tools to protect, maintain, and effectively use the lens right away. For anyone serious about portrait or telephoto photography, or someone looking to upgrade their kit with a reliable, professional-grade lens and essential accessories, this package is a very sensible choice. The renewal status means it’s been checked and restored to a high standard, offering peace of mind without the premium price of brand-new gear.
Feature Benefit Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM Lens Sharp optics, fast aperture for low light and shallow depth of field, quiet and quick autofocus Filter Kit Protects lens and offers creative control with various filters Backpack Convenient and safe transportation for lens and accessories 64GB Memory Card + Card Reader Ample storage for photos/videos and easy file transfer Flex Tripod Portable and adaptable stabilization for tricky shooting angles Memory Wallet Organizes and protects memory cards Cap Keeper Prevents loss of lens caps during shoots Cleaning Kit Maintains lens clarity and performance Hand Strap Provides comfort and security when carrying the camera
if you are like me and want a powerful, professional lens paired with all the essential accessories to jumpstart your photography adventures, this Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM Lens bundle is a great investment. It balances quality, functionality, and value in a way that’s hard to beat, especially considering the renewed condition offers affordability without compromising performance. I’d definitely recommend considering this bundle if you’re serious about elevating your photography.
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4. Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM Lens (2520A004) + Filter Kit + Cap Keeper + Cleaning Kit + More (Renewed)
When I first came across the Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM Lens (2520A004) bundled with a Filter Kit, Cap Keeper, Cleaning Kit, and more—all in a renewed condition—I was immediately intrigued by the value and versatility this package offers. The Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM is widely recognized as a professional-grade prime lens, celebrated for its exceptional sharpness, beautiful bokeh, and fast aperture. Having this lens in my kit means I can confidently shoot portraits, events, or even some sports photography with impressive background separation and low-light performance.
One of the standout features of the Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM is its large f/2 aperture. This wide aperture allows me to create images with a shallow depth of field, making my subject stand out against a creamy, blurred background. It’s perfect for portraiture where I want to emphasize facial features and expressions without distractions. Additionally, the wide aperture significantly helps in low-light scenarios, enabling faster shutter speeds and lower ISO settings, which means cleaner, crisper images.
The USM (Ultrasonic Motor) autofocus system is another aspect I truly appreciate. It provides fast, precise, and near-silent focusing, which is essential when capturing candid moments or shooting video. This responsiveness allows me to not miss fleeting expressions or action. The lens’s build quality, being part of Canon’s L-series, ensures durability and weather sealing, which gives me confidence to use it in various shooting environments without worrying about dust or moisture.
What makes this package even more appealing is the addition of the Filter Kit, Cap Keeper, Cleaning Kit, and other accessories. Filters, such as UV or polarizers, are crucial for protecting the lens and enhancing image quality by reducing glare and improving color saturation. The Cap Keeper is a thoughtful inclusion that prevents me from losing lens caps—a small but often frustrating issue. Meanwhile, the Cleaning Kit ensures that I can maintain the lens’s pristine condition, which is especially important for renewed products to keep them performing at their best.
Considering this is a renewed product, it strikes a great balance between cost and quality. Canon’s refurbished items typically undergo rigorous testing and come with warranties, which reassures me about reliability. For someone like me who wants professional-grade optics without paying full retail price, this bundle is a smart investment. It delivers both high performance and essential accessories that enhance the overall photography experience.
Here’s a quick overview of what this package brings to the table
Component Benefit Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM Lens Sharp, fast aperture prime lens ideal for portraits and low-light shooting Filter Kit Protects lens and improves image quality through glare reduction and color enhancement Cap Keeper Prevents loss of lens caps, ensuring lens protection Cleaning Kit Keeps lens elements clean for optimal image quality Renewed Condition Cost-effective option with quality assurance and warranty
if you’re serious about elevating your photography, especially portraits or any scenario requiring fast, sharp optics, this Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM Lens bundle is a compelling choice. The added accessories save you time and money, while the renewed status makes it accessible without compromising quality. I find this package not only practical but also an excellent way to invest in my craft. If you’re on the fence, I’d say this combination is worth considering seriously for the performance and value it offers.
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How the 135mm f/2.0 L Lens Enhances My Photography
I find that the 135mm f/2.0 L lens significantly improves my ability to capture stunning portraits and detailed shots from a comfortable distance. The wide f/2.0 aperture allows me to work beautifully in low light conditions without compromising on image quality, giving my photos a creamy, professional-looking background blur that really makes my subjects stand out.
Using this lens, I’ve noticed how sharp and vibrant my images become, thanks to the superior optics typical of the L series. It helps me isolate my subject perfectly, which is essential when I want to focus attention on specific details or emotions. Overall, this lens has become an invaluable tool in my kit, making my creative vision easier to achieve with every shot.
Buying Guide for 135mm F2.0 L Lens
Understanding the 135mm F2.0 L Lens
When I first considered a 135mm F2.0 L lens, I knew it was a prime telephoto lens known for its sharpness and beautiful bokeh. This focal length is ideal for portraits, events, and some types of sports photography. The wide f/2.0 aperture allows me to shoot in low light and create a shallow depth of field, making my subject stand out dramatically.
Why Choose a 135mm F2.0 Lens?
I found that the 135mm focal length gives me a flattering perspective for portraits without distortion. The f/2.0 aperture is faster than many lenses in this range, which helps me capture crisp images with excellent background separation. Plus, the “L” designation usually means professional-grade build quality and superior optics, which is important for consistent performance.
Key Features to Consider
When buying this lens, I paid attention to several features:
- Image Quality: Sharpness, color rendition, and minimal chromatic aberration are crucial.
- Autofocus Performance: Fast and accurate autofocus helps me capture fleeting moments.
- Build Quality: Weather sealing and sturdy construction ensure durability in various conditions.
- Weight and Size: Since I often carry my gear for long shoots, a manageable weight matters.
- Compatibility: I checked if the lens works seamlessly with my camera body and supports features like image stabilization.
My Experience with Handling and Usability
I appreciate lenses that balance manual control with reliable autofocus. The focus ring should be smooth for fine-tuning focus manually. Also, having a lens hood included or compatible helps reduce lens flare and protects the front element. Ergonomics play a role too; I prefer a lens that feels comfortable to hold for extended periods.
Price and Value Considerations
A 135mm F2.0 L lens is an investment. I considered my budget but also weighed the long-term benefits of optical quality and durability. Sometimes, spending more upfront saves money later by avoiding the need to upgrade quickly. It’s important to assess whether the lens meets your specific photography needs before committing.
Final Thoughts Before Buying
Choosing this lens depends on your style and shooting preferences. For me, the combination of focal length, aperture, and build quality made it an excellent addition to my kit. I recommend trying the lens in person if possible, to see how it feels and performs with your camera system. This hands-on experience helped me make a confident purchase.
Author Profile
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I’m Monalicious Lopez. Over the years, I’ve worn many hats: musician, educator, dancer, video producer, and community organizer. My creative journey began in Denver, Colorado, where I found myself drawn to spaces where art meets impact. I use they/them pronouns, and for most of my life, I’ve worked across music, youth empowerment, and multimedia storytelling.
But in 2025, I felt something shift. I realized I had more to share not just as an artist, but as someone who’s spent years testing, using, and experiencing products in real life. So I took a new step: I began writing an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. My perspective isn’t about marketing spin – it’s about lived experience. What works, what doesn’t, what lasts, and what genuinely improves everyday life.
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