• The Canon 70-200 IS is a professional-level telephoto lens. It was released in 2008 for Canon's digital single lens reflex line of cameras. Because of its sophistication and price, only professional photographers should consider purchasing one. A telephoto lens is basically a super-zoom lens that will enable a photographer to shoot close-up shots from long distances. These are often used when a situation is inaccessible, such as sports or nature photography.
  
  

Focal Length and Aperture

• This zoom lens is adjustable from 70 mm to 200 mm, making it high-level telephoto lens. Its maximum aperture opening is 2.8, and its angle of view is between 34 degrees when zoomed out to 12 degrees zoomed in. Such sharp viewing angles will "flatten" the appearance of your image like all other telephoto lenses at this level.
  
  

Additional Features

• The lens is constructed with 23 elements in 18 groups and uses a rotating-type zoom method. The closest focusing distance is 4.3 feet. The lens weighs a hefty 3.4 pounds and is weatherproof. Because it is part of the EF lens series, it is compatible with Canon's DSLR cameras. Cnet.com, a popular consumer tech website, rated the lens 4.5 stars out of 5.
  
  

Pricing and Availability

• As of 2010, this lens can be purchased new for $1,200 or used for $650. Because of its value and complexity, you will need to buy it from a store specializing in photography or from an online mega-dealer, such as Amazon or Buy.com.