Canon's L-series 200mm f/2.8 telephoto prime — a sharp, relatively compact professional lens for action and portraits.
The Canon EF 200mm f/2.8L II USM is a telephoto prime for Canon EF full-frame bodies, providing a 200mm perspective at f/2.8 maximum aperture with two UD (ultra-low dispersion) elements. Released approximately 1996, it has been in production across the Canon L-series telephoto prime lineup. At 765g and 72mm filter thread. Ring USM. L-series dust and moisture resistance. 1.5m minimum focus distance.
The optical design uses 9 elements in 7 groups including 2 UD elements. Eight aperture blades. The 72mm filter thread. At 765g the lens is moderate for a 200mm f/2.8 prime. Minimum focus distance of 1.5m. Ring USM provides fast, quiet AF with full-time manual override. L-series dust and moisture resistance. f/2.8 maximum aperture. Full-frame coverage.
The 200mm f/2.8 perspective provides strong subject-background compression for portrait, sports, and event photography at a lighter and more affordable price point than 300mm f/2.8 and 400mm f/2.8 primes. At f/2.8, the shallow depth of field at 200mm is extreme for close and medium portrait distances. Compatible with Canon 1.4x and 2x teleconverters, extending the reach to 280mm f/4 and 400mm f/5.6.
On the used market the Canon EF 200mm f/2.8L II USM is available at mid-range L-series telephoto prime pricing. Condition checks: ring USM AF response, L-series sealing, 72mm front element for marks, and aperture blade operation. Compatible with all Canon EOS EF bodies; on RF bodies via EF-RF adapter.