I like camera gear as much as the next photographer/gearhead. I try not to let it be a complete obsession. I would like to think if I were a sword fighter I would be focusing more on my balance than my blade. In much the same way I love meeting people who introduce me to new ways of perceiving the world around me. Artists are good at that.

But, when I am down or bored I find myself wandering over to the camera store to putz around with their toys. I wander through the used section looking at stuff that almost no-one wants. Every now and again something really interesting comes along.

The Canon 24-70mm F1.4 L is a lens which receives mixed reviews. I have never had a need for it so I stick to my other lenses that cover that range. But, last week as my eyes scanned the used camera shelves (Christmas eve day... I was sent out to buy things from Whole Foods next door...). I happened upon a minty Canon 28-70mm f1.4. The old predecessor to the 24-70mm. My friends gave me a deal too good to ignore so I went home (running a bit late) with a new item. A used hood from B&H later (which was cracked... I'm annoyed with them... EX shape my foot) I was shooting with the new toy.

In general it is better to buy lenses new. Too many bad things can happen to used ones. But, if you're having fun you're having fun. This lens would be a great carry-around lens if it was sharp. I don't worry as much as others about corner resolution or vignetting. I care about sharp focusing and sharp centers at wide apertures.

On Monday, for the first time in a long time, I went out to shoot some climbing. Was the lens magic? No. But I still had more fun than I have in a long time. Something about it made me want to shoot landscapes. There are no doubt better lenses. But I just had fun. A bit chunk of glass with a sharp center.

It helps that I was shooting in great light. Still, a pretty little bit of glass. Good enough to give a sense of depth to the images. Good enough that I had some fun. [edit] - I'm not being fair. Any lens that I have fun with is a great lens for me. Who knows... maybe if I took off the UV filter it would be even better.