Awesome 35!

JerryriggedTECH wrote:

I've had the 35mm f/1.4L II for about 10 months now. Right from the beginning, I was impressed with how EASY this lens is to use. AF is lightning fast AND accurate. Even when shooting wide open at close distance, focus always seems to be just right. At first, the 35mm got lots of use... partly because my 24-70 f/2.8L II was wonky (it has since been repaired). Now, honestly, I'm not always sure when it is best to use this lens. The 24-70 now that it's been repaired, is so good, and so versitile that I often grab it instead of the 35.

i totally agree with you about canon 24-70 f2.8 II, it is an amazing lens that retires many primes in that range! i have the canon 35 f1.4 rev. 1 and i find it outstanding, even with its excessive CA, but i try to avoid situations that would make its CA present its self badly, i reach for other lenses, 24-70 f2.8 II included! i find my 24-70 razor sharp with outstanding contrast!

There are certain times, however, when it is just the right lens for the job! For environmental portraits, and/or in low light, this lens is truly in its element! Wide open, pictures pop and backgrounds have very nice bokeh! And you can shoot in near darkness, even without flash or strobes!

Since I got the lens, I've learned more... the LensRentals teardown shows just how well this lens is made (https://www.lensrentals.com/blog/2015/12/canon-35mm-f1-4-mk-ii-teardown/ You can forget about CA also. For most fast primes, CA always seems to be there, but with this lens, it is rare to see even a hint!

I mostly shoot people (weddings, portraits, etc.) and for me this lens has been amazing and really helps to complete my lens kit! Now if Canon would just give the same love to the 50mm and 85mm!

i am sure the new canon 35 f1.4 II is outstanding but i haven't felt the urge to upgrade for the new one! i try to use my 35 f1.4 in controlled environment to avoid CA.