Mark Ellington
Canon RF 50mm F1.8 STM Lens - Renewed
Introduction
The Canon RF 50mm F1.8 STM lens is a compact and lightweight prime lens designed specifically for Canon’s full-frame mirrorless RF mount cameras, including the EOS R, EOS RP, EOS R5, and EOS R6. This renewed lens offers photographers a versatile option for a range of shooting scenarios, from everyday snaps to professional-quality portraits. With its large aperture and advanced features, it aims to deliver exceptional image quality and performance.
Product Overview
Manufactured by Canon, a trusted brand in photography equipment, the RF 50mm F1.8 STM belongs to the prime lens category. It is intended for photographers seeking a reliable and high-performance lens that excels in low-light conditions while providing stunning background blur for creative effects.
Appearance and Design
The Canon RF 50mm F1.8 STM lens boasts a sleek and modern aesthetic, featuring a matte black finish that gives it a professional look. Its compact form factor makes it highly portable, weighing in at just 160 grams (approximately 5.6 ounces), which is ideal for on-the-go photography. The lens is constructed with high-quality materials that feel durable and robust, ensuring it can withstand regular use. One notable design element is the control ring located towards the front of the lens, allowing users to adjust settings such as aperture or exposure compensation easily.
Key Features and Specifications
- Focal Length: 50mm (equivalent to 85mm on APS-C cameras)
- Aperture: Maximum of F1.8 for excellent low-light performance
- Stepping Motor (STM) for quiet and smooth autofocus, ideal for both photography and video recording
- Control ring for direct setting changes
- Optimized lens placement and coatings to reduce ghosting and flare
- Part Number: 4515C002
- 90-day limited warranty
Usage Experience
In practice, the RF 50mm F1.8 STM lens excels in various shooting conditions. During low-light situations, the F1.8 aperture allows for bright and clear images without excessive noise. Portrait photography is particularly enjoyable with this lens, as it produces beautifully blurred backgrounds that help subjects stand out. The STM motor provides responsive and silent autofocus, making it a great option for video recording as well.
Additionally, the lens performs well in everyday scenarios, capturing sharp images with excellent color balance. The control ring is a thoughtful addition, offering quick accessibility for adjustments without needing to delve into camera menus, which is particularly useful for time-sensitive shooting environments.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Compact and lightweight for easy portability
- Large F1.8 aperture for low-light capabilities and beautiful bokeh
- Quiet and smooth autofocus, suitable for video
- Control ring for easy adjustments
- Great image quality with minimal distortion
Cons
- Build quality is primarily plastic, which may not appeal to all users
- No weather sealing, making it less ideal for harsh conditions
- Limited zoom capabilities, being a fixed focal length lens
Conclusion
Overall, the Canon RF 50mm F1.8 STM lens is an excellent addition to any photographer’s kit, especially those using Canon’s full-frame mirrorless cameras. Its combination of a fast aperture, quality optics, and user-friendly design make it a versatile and reliable choice for various photographic needs. While it may have some limitations in terms of build quality and weather resistance, the strengths far outweigh these drawbacks. For those looking for an affordable yet high-performing lens, the RF 50mm F1.8 STM is highly recommended.
