Canon 100mm (2009–today)
A macro lens with image stabilization, built for precision and versatility.
Overview
The Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L IS USM Macro is a professional macro lens introduced in 2009 and still in production. It was the world's first image-stabilized macro lens. It gives 1:1 maximum magnification, sharp optics, and hybrid image stabilization. It fits Canon's EF mount and works for dedicated macro photography and for general telephoto use, including portraits and handheld video. Three versions exist: the original EF 100mm f/2.8 Macro (1990-2000), the EF 100mm f/2.8 Macro USM (2000-2021), and the current L-series IS model.
Specifications
| Focal Length | 100mm |
| Maximum Aperture | f/2.8 |
| Maximum Magnification | 1:1 |
| Closest Focusing Distance | 1.0 ft. / 0.3m |
| Filter Size | 67mm |
| Weight | 22.0 oz./623g |
| Original Price | $1,299 |
| Image Stabilization | Yes |
| Autofocus | USM (Ultra Sonic Motor) |
| Focus Limiter Switch | Yes (three-position) |
| Lens Mount | Metal |
| Exterior Material | Plastic barrel with metal lens mount |
| Country of Manufacture | Japan |
| Lens Type/Suffix | Macro L |
| Lens Construction | 15 elements in 12 groups |
| Minimum Aperture | f/32 |
| Angle of View | 23.4° |
| Dimensions (Diameter × Length) | 3.07 × 5.13” (78 × 130.4mm) |
Design
The EF 100mm f/2.8L IS USM Macro has internal focusing and full-time manual focus override. The diaphragm is non-compensating, so you need exposure compensation at close focus distances. A UD element reduces chromatic aberration. The barrel is high-quality plastic, the focus ring is rubber-coated, and the lens mount is metal. The front element does not rotate during focusing, so polarizing filters work fine.
Context
The 2009 EF 100mm f/2.8L IS USM Macro succeeded the earlier non-IS models and brought image stabilization to macro work and general telephoto use. It replaced the EF 100mm f/2.8 Macro USM (2000-2021), which itself followed the original 1990 version - the first Canon lens to autofocus to 1:1 magnification. The L-series model was designed for better optical performance and stabilization, and it sits above the lighter, cheaper non-L variants.
Market
The EF 100mm f/2.8L IS USM Macro launched at $1,299 and is valued today at around $500 used. The non-IS EF 100mm f/2.8 Macro USM, originally priced near $600, sells used between $284 and $354. The L IS model draws criticism for its all-plastic exterior relative to its price. It is praised for its sharpness, bokeh, and versatility beyond macro use.
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