Pros & Cons
Pros
- Incredibly sharp images, even wide open at f/1.2
- Beautiful bokeh that enhances portraits and creative photography
- Fast focusing performance on RF bodies, particularly during video shooting
- Well-built with weather sealing, making it robust for various shooting conditions
- Relatively compact for a prime f/1.2 lens, making it easier to handle
Cons
- Heavy, making it less ideal for long shooting sessions
- Expensive compared to other options in the 50mm category
- Some users report it can produce clinical or sterile images
- The autofocus performance can be considered slow by some users, especially in low light
Verdict
The Canon RF 50mm f/1.2L USM is highly regarded for its exceptional sharpness and quality of images it produces, making it a favorite among portrait and wedding photographers. However, its weight and price are significant considerations, especially for hobbyists who may not utilize its full potential.
Specifications
| Focal Length | 50mm |
| Max Aperture | f/1.2 |
| Min Aperture | f/16 |
| Mount | Canon RF |
| OIS | No |
| AF Motor | USM |
| Filter Size | 77mm |
| Min Focus | 0.4m |
| Weight | 950g |
| Dimensions | 89.8 x 108 mm |
| Weather Sealed | Yes |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Canon RF 50mm f/1.2L USM worth the premium over the RF 50mm f/1.8 STM?
For professionals or enthusiasts seeking maximum sharpness, low-light performance, and the unique rendering of f/1.2, the f/1.2L is a clear upgrade. However, the f/1.8 STM is vastly more affordable, lighter, and offers excellent performance for everyday photography; the premium is justified mainly by optical quality and build.
Does the lens have optical image stabilization?
No, the RF 50mm f/1.2L USM does not include built-in optical stabilization. Recent Canon RF camera bodies offer in-body image stabilization (IBIS), which helps compensate, but those using bodies without IBIS may need to take extra care with handheld shots at slow shutter speeds.
How does autofocus perform in low light?
Autofocus is generally fast and accurate on modern RF bodies, but some users report it can slow down under extremely low-light or low-contrast conditions. Manual focus override is available and works well in these scenarios.
Can this lens be used for video work?
Yes, the lens is very well-suited for video thanks to smooth, near-silent autofocus and outstanding image quality. However, lack of built-in IS and the pronounced focus breathing may be considerations for serious videographers; stabilization should come from in-body or gimbal support.
How does it compare to the EF 50mm f/1.2L on an adapter?
The RF 50mm f/1.2L USM outperforms the adapted EF version in sharpness, autofocus speed and accuracy, and bokeh quality. It's also better corrected for aberrations and offers improved weather sealing. However, it is heavier and significantly more expensive.
Is this lens suitable for travel or street photography?
While the lens delivers outstanding results for any subject, its weight and size make it less discreet and portable compared to smaller 50mm primes. Dedicated travel or street photographers may prefer a compact alternative like the RF 50mm f/1.8 STM for ease of carrying.
Compatible Cameras
Camera bodies that work with this lens
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