I've just received the Canon 17-40 f4 L lens (Spring 2004). This gallery shows some of the results of the first day of testing. The photos represent a range of different types of images, from detailed interior shots to landscapes. There are also many 17-40 f4 L photos in a more recent gallery on Italy at https://pbase.com/tconelly/italy

To provide context: these were taken with the Canon D60 camera at iso 200, handheld and with no flash. Moderate levels and sharpening were applied to all images. Images are, of course, significantly compressed for the web so there is some loss of quality from the original. Weather conditions varied through the day from overcast and rather dreary to intermittent sun late in the day. I am an amateur, fairly new to digital photography.

Overall, my first impressions are positive. Compared to my existing 28-135 IS and 75-300 IS lenses, the 17-40 appears sharp from 17 to 40 mm, though a bit less so at the 17mm end. Even at lower shutter speeds (1/20 - 1/30) and handheld photos remain sharp. The lens produces 'silky' smooth images with vibrant colors. Detail and clarity of some of the pictures rivals those produced by my good Canon 50 f1.8 prime lens. What do you think?