Manual focus is mechanically linked and available at all times (ie - “Full Time Manual Focus” in Canon jargon), so the lens can be auto-focused and adjusted manually if desired. The 1Ds Mark III’s viewfinder is large and bright, so I do tend to manual focus because it is quicker than selecting the appropriate AF point. I wish Canon would add IS to the 200mm F2.8 because at times the view through the viewfinder feels like a mini earthquake - especially when holding the camera in an awkward position. If trying to decide between the Canon 200mm F2.8 and one of the Canon 70-200mm IS zooms, the IS enabled zooms have advantages at lower shutter speeds, at keeping the focus point on target and with a steadier viewfinder. But the downside of course is price and increased weight. My keeper rate is higher with IS zooms, so I prefer the IS options.

PERFORMANCE

The Canon 200mm F2.8 is very sharp on the Canon 1Ds Mark III, especially at F4 to F8. The 200mm F2.8 produces rich colors, and this may be the lens’ best attribute. Keeping in mind the images posted in this review have been edited in Photoshop. The bokeh (background blur) is pleasing, but not as extreme as I would like. Contrast is good at F4 through F11. The contrast at F2.8 can lack punch at times, but with some levels adjustment in Photoshop, the contrast begins to come to life. Thus far flare has not been issue, nor have there been any other ugly surprises.

The Canon 200mm F2.8 L is a safe, middle-of-the-road lens. It is fairly easy to use, performs well and does not have any extraordinary bad habits such as a propensity to flare. My one complaint is its F2.8 performance - simply put, the 200mm F2.8 is not as sharp at F2.8 as I think it should be. Over the years I have had three copies of the 200mm F2.8 L. The outcome has been the same each - amusing lens, but ultimately it was sold in favor of something else. The Canon 135mm F2 L USM has more dramatic bokeh (at F2) and feels sharper at F2 than the Canon 200mm F2.8 feels at F2.8.

In June 2008 we got two Golden Retriever puppies and this was a whole new shooting realm (for me). Chasing around puppies has been a challenge compared to the usual landscapes and still life subjects. AI/Servo focus on the Canon 1Ds Mark III was pretty quick. Many of the shots were OOF’d (out of focus), but that was mostly user error on my part because I rarely shoot in servo mode. Also the puppies where continually coming towards me and were quickly closer than the 200mm’s minimum focus distance. For the setting and working space, 200mm was too long. A Canon 135mm L would have been easier to manage in that setting.

CONCLUSION

My opinion on the 200mm F2.8 L is mixed. In its favor it is a good performing lens at a reasonable price compared to other Canon L lenses, but there is not the wow factor.

1. •If wide open performance is the most important consideration, I would pick the Canon 135mm F2 L over the Canon 200mm F2.8 L. The 135L is sharper at F2 and has more contrast and the bokeh does have the wow factor.
   

2. •The price difference between the new Canon 200mm F2 L IS and F2.8 L is huge! Spending 7X more is crazy, but that is price of admission. If I was hard-core portrait or sports shooter and earned a living from photography, I might be able to justify the 200mm F2 L IS.
   

3. •Most people are probably debating between a Canon 135L and the 200L (F2.8). I would choose the 135L for its more more pleasing bokeh. Overall I think the 135L is a better lens, but the 135mm focal length can be tricky to work with - too long indoors, not enough reach outdoors.
   

It is not too often that I a poo-poo a lens, but when it comes to 200mm there are many choices. Here are my preferences:

1. •For travel use, the Canon 70-200mm F4 L IS is more practical. It a bit lighter, offers a zoom range, is weather sealed and the image stabilization is excellent. And the lens is wickedly sharp.
   

2. •If weight is not a concern, the Canon 70-200mm F2.8 L IS Mark II is a stunning lens. Very sharp wide open, great bokeh and again - terrific image stabilization. Click here for the PebblePlace review.
   

3. •If bokeh is the most important criteria, then the Canon 135mm F2 L is a better choice. Also in my experience the 135L is sharper at F2 than the 200L at F2.8. Click here for the PebblePlace review.
   

The Canon 200mm F2.8 L is not a bad lens. The question is  - is the “right” lens? There are many options and for keeper rate reasons, I lean towards one of the IS zooms or the Canon 135L for bokeh.