EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III Telephoto Zoom Lens Black (6473A002[AA]) Review
Introduction
For weeks, I’ve been putting the EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III Telephoto Zoom Lens Black (6473A002[AA]) through its paces. This lens promises smooth zooming, impressive focus capabilities, and lightweight design, all while delivering crisp, detailed images from afar. Does it deliver on these promises? Let’s dive in.
Features and Design
The 6473A002[AA] boasts a number of appealing features. The smooth zoom mechanism is a definite highlight, allowing for precise adjustments without jarring movements. The adjustable aperture is crucial for controlling depth of field and light intake, essential for achieving the desired image clarity. The lens also incorporates impressive focus functionality, allowing for sharply magnified views even at longer focal lengths. The lightweight construction, particularly impressive given the first element group is usually one of the heaviest, makes it comfortable for extended shooting sessions.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Product Weight | 480 g |
| Colour Name | Black |
| What’s In The Box | Lens, LENS DUST CAP |
| Camera Lens Adjustment | Manual |
| Secondary Reflector | No |
| Product Length | 4.8 in |
| Product Height | 7 cm |
| Product Width/Depth | 7 cm |
| Features | Business, Cordless, Ergonomic, Programmable, Personal |
| Model Number | 6473A002[AA] |
| Model Name | 6473A003 |
| Item Quantity | 1 |
| Image Stabilization | Yes |
Performance and Image Quality
In real-world testing, the lens performed admirably. The image stabilization worked effectively, minimizing blur even in low-light conditions or when shooting handheld at longer focal lengths. The sharpness across the zoom range was consistent, producing detailed images even at the maximum zoom of 300mm. I particularly appreciated the ease of use and the precise control offered by the manual focus and aperture adjustments. While I experienced some minor chromatic aberration in high-contrast situations, it was minimal and easily correctable in post-processing.
I used this lens extensively for wildlife photography, capturing stunning shots of birds in flight and animals in their natural habitats. The lens’s ability to get close to subjects without disturbing them was a significant advantage. I also used it for landscape photography, appreciating its ability to compress perspectives and capture dramatic views.
I found that autofocus speed was acceptable, though not blazing fast in all conditions. In bright light, it was responsive, but in low light, it occasionally hunted a bit before locking onto the subject. This is a minor drawback, however, considering the overall performance.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Smooth zoom, good image quality, effective image stabilization, lightweight design, precise manual focus and aperture control.
- Cons: Autofocus speed could be improved in low light, minor chromatic aberration in high-contrast scenes.
Final Verdict
Overall, the EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III Telephoto Zoom Lens Black (6473A002[AA]) is a solid performer. Its strengths in image quality, smooth zoom, and lightweight design make it an excellent option for photographers who need a versatile telephoto lens without breaking the bank. While the autofocus could be slightly faster in low light, this is a minor drawback compared to its many positive attributes. I would wholeheartedly recommend this lens to anyone looking for a capable and affordable telephoto option for wildlife, sports, or general photography.
