Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS USM Telephoto Lens User Manual

1. Overview

The Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS USM Telephoto Lens is a high-performance L-series lens designed for Canon SLR cameras. It features an Image Stabilizer for enhanced handheld shooting and incorporates fluorite and two UD-glass elements to correct chromatic aberrations. This lens is known for its fast autofocus speed, achieved with an improved Ring Ultrasonic Motor (USM) and new algorithms. Its rugged, lightweight magnesium alloy barrel and detachable tripod collar contribute to its durability and portability.

Figure 1: Overall view of the Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS USM Telephoto Lens.

2. Setup

2.1 Attaching the Lens

1. Remove the rear lens cap from the lens and the body cap from the camera.
2. Align the red index mark on the lens with the red index mark on the camera body.
3. Insert the lens into the camera mount and turn it clockwise until it locks into place with a click.

2.2 Attaching the Lens Hood (ET-120)

The lens hood helps to prevent stray light from entering the lens, reducing flare and ghosting in your photographs.

1. Align the red dot on the lens hood with the red dot on the front of the lens.
2. Attach the lens hood to the lens and turn it clockwise until it clicks into place.

Figure 2: Front element of the lens, where the lens hood attaches.

3. Operating the Lens

3.1 Focus Mode Switch (AF/MF)

• AF (Autofocus): For automatic focusing. The Ring USM provides fast and quiet autofocus.
• MF (Manual Focus): For manual focusing. This lens supports full-time manual focus, allowing you to adjust focus manually even when in AF mode without damaging the mechanism.

3.2 Focus Limiter Switch

This switch allows you to limit the focus range, which can speed up autofocus performance when your subject is within a known distance range.

• FULL: Allows focusing across the entire range (closest focusing distance to infinity).
• 2.5m - ∞: Limits focusing to subjects 2.5 meters (8.2 feet) or further away.

3.3 Image Stabilizer (IS) Switch

• ON: Activates the Image Stabilizer function, reducing blur caused by camera shake.
• OFF: Deactivates the Image Stabilizer. It is recommended to turn IS off when using a tripod for extended periods or when shooting at very fast shutter speeds.

3.4 Image Stabilizer Mode Switch

This lens offers two Image Stabilizer modes:

• MODE 1: Corrects camera shake in all directions (vertical and horizontal). Ideal for stationary subjects.
• MODE 2: Corrects camera shake only in the vertical direction. Ideal for panning shots where you follow a moving subject horizontally.

Figure 3: Side view of the lens displaying the AF/MF, Focus Limiter, and Image Stabilizer switches.

4. Key Features

• EF Mount: Compatible with Canon EOS SLR cameras.
• 300mm Focal Length: Provides significant reach for telephoto photography.
• f/2.8 Maximum Aperture: Allows for excellent low-light performance and shallow depth of field for subject isolation.
• Ultra-low Dispersion (UD) Glass and Fluorite Elements: Effectively correct chromatic aberrations, ensuring high image quality.
• Ring UltraSonic Motor (USM): Delivers fast, quiet, and precise autofocus.
• Image Stabilizer (IS): Reduces camera shake by up to four stops, enabling sharper handheld shots.
• Inner Focusing System: The lens length does not change during focusing, maintaining balance.
• Full-time Manual Focus: Allows for manual focus adjustments even in AF mode.
• Lightweight Magnesium Alloy Barrel: Enhances portability and durability.
• Detachable Tripod Collar: Provides stable mounting on tripods and monopods, allowing for smooth rotation between horizontal and vertical orientations.

5. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to clean the lens surfaces. For stubborn smudges, use a lens cleaning solution and a microfiber cloth. Avoid touching the glass elements directly.
• Storage: Store the lens in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Use the provided lens caps to protect the front and rear elements from dust and scratches.
• Handling: Always handle the lens carefully. Avoid dropping it or subjecting it to strong impacts.
• Weather Resistance: The lens is sealed against dust and moisture, offering protection in various environmental conditions. However, it is not waterproof; avoid prolonged exposure to heavy rain or submersion.

6. Troubleshooting

• Autofocus not working:
  • Ensure the AF/MF switch is set to "AF".
  • Check the Focus Limiter switch; if set to a limited range, the subject might be outside that range.
  • Verify that the lens is securely attached to the camera body.
  • Ensure sufficient light for the autofocus system to operate effectively.
• Images are blurry:
  • Check if the Image Stabilizer (IS) is turned "ON" if shooting handheld.
  • Ensure the correct IS mode is selected for your shooting situation (Mode 1 for stationary, Mode 2 for panning).
  • Verify that the shutter speed is appropriate for the lighting conditions and focal length to minimize camera shake.
  • Confirm that the lens is properly focused on your subject.
• Dust or smudges on images:
  • Clean the front and rear lens elements using appropriate lens cleaning tools.
  • Check your camera's sensor for dust if cleaning the lens doesn't resolve the issue.

7. Specifications

8. What's in the Box

• Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS USM Telephoto Lens
• Lens Case 300 (Hard case for protection)
• Lens Hood ET-120
• Wide Strap
• 52mm Drop-In Gel Filter Holder
• Front Lens Cap E-145
• Rear Lens Dust Cap E

9. Warranty & Support

This Canon lens comes with a one-year limited warranty from the manufacturer. For technical support, service, or warranty claims, please refer to the official Canon support website or contact their customer service directly. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty validation.

For more information, visit the Canon Store.