Canon EF200mm f/2L USM is a sharp and expensive telephoto lens that can be used with Canon D-SLR cameras. It costs $5,999 directly (or $5,699.00 on Amazon). The EF 200mm f/2.8L USM (819.99) captures double the light of the 200mm prime Canon lens.
This lens is less expensive but can still focus closer and lacks image stabilization. The EF 200mm f/2LIS USM is a professional-grade lens that can be rented or purchased. It's sharp right from the edge.
It is large enough that the EF 200mm f/2L can be shipped with its hard-shell case. The EF 200mm f/2L measures 8.2x5 inches (HD), and weights in at 5.6 lbs. The height can be increased by attaching the hood. Although the front element is massive, there is no thread for filtering.
Instead there is a drop-in rear filter holder which can hold 52mm gelatin filters. The lens has a tripod collar that can be rotated for landscape or portrait photography and locked into place using a thumbscrew. Two slots allow you to attach your strap directly to the collar.
The barrel has a variety of buttons and control switches. The barrel has a number of buttons and switches that allow you to toggle between manual and automatic focus. You can also set your autofocus limit to 1.9m to infinity, or 3.5m to infinity. You can also control image stabilization mode by using other switches. You can save your focus distance, and then return to it by touching any one of the buttons between the lens' front and the manual focus rings.
Imatest was used to test the sharpness of the images taken by the lens with the Canon EOS 6D ($1,699.00 Amazon). It's razor sharp edge to edge even at f/2. The sharpness of this image is 2,731 lines per picture height when it's tested using the center-weighted method. This number exceeds 1,800 lines that are required to be considered photo sharp. The sharpness is marginally improved to approximately 2,800 lines. It hovers around f/5.6 when it stops down.
The distortion is negligible. Only optical deficiency is the minimal focus distance of 6.2 feet. At 4.9 feet, the 200mm f/2.8 focusses a little closer. The 200mm F/2L is used for pro-sports photography, so it doesn't have to be at the maximum distance. However, this lens can prove to be very useful if you are a lover of tight portraiture. A macro lens is the best choice if close focus is what you want. The Sigma APO Macro 180mm EX DGOS HSM at Amazon is a fantastic option if it has a similar focal length.
This is the best wide-aperture, telephoto Canon lens for you. The price is prohibitive for non-professional photographers and wealthy enthusiasts. However, renting it is an option if you only use it occasionally. You can rent it at a rental house for $250 per week.
This price is easily integrated into the rate you pay for a paid gig. The Canon's 200mm f/2.8 lens is an option if you are able to live with the non-stabilized version. However, most event photographers prefer the stability of the 70-200mm F/2.8 zoom. It is sharp, sharp and easy to use in low light. The lens' f/2 design allows for sharp shots even under dimmed lighting.