Solid build quality and good handling despite the size
Very accurate autofocus
Exceptional sharpness right from f/1.2
Beautiful, creamy bokeh
Very good control of chromatic aberration
Almost no distortion
Excellent color and contrast
Cons
Very expensive
Large and heavy
High vignetting
Canon came out swinging with the RF 50mm f/1.2L, and managed to produce an exceptional optic. The lens is extremely sharp right from f/1.2, with beautiful bokeh, and makes for an outstanding lens for portraiture, event photography and more.
I was really impressed with the lens in the time I had with it. It consistently produced images that were pleasing and impactful, and I loved picking up the camera every time I went to shoot with it. The high cost is going to limit appeal for the general consumer, but this is a staple lens for any portrait or event photographer who uses the RF system.
The RF 50mm f/1.2L is big and heavy, and it is extremely expensive at $2,299 US, but it is also the best normal lens I’ve ever had the pleasure to shoot with. A truly outstanding lens.
Image Samples
Click on an image to enlarge.
If you enjoyed this review, check out my other reviews in the Review Index
Thank you for the reminder! I had been unable to locate a copy for review for so long, and LensRentals didn’t have one for quite some time, so it sort of dropped off my radar. Yes, I very much want to review that lens. It looks like I can rent it now, so will look to get that for review here soon!
It definitely outresolves the R6/R6 II. However, I don’t think that means that it is necessarily a ‘better fit’ on the R5. The lens is brilliant on either body. The R5 will take advantage of the full resolution the lens can deliver, but the rendering is of course equally brilliant on both, and it is sharp on both. You’re not ‘missing out’ using this lens on an R6, just creating wonderful images whatever the resolution is.
Great review. I shoot Nikon and may try an old Nikon D200 and see how it compares with the new…
It feels so nice to read your article. When I was a student, upgrading from a D5100 to a D750…
I use it now for 2years on the X-H1 and i am still impressed by the performance of this lens.…
Your article brings back some very fond memories. I had exact setup you describe. The 15-85 lens on the 30D…
While late to the party my view about both these lenses remains. The Oly is a dark moody lens suited…
We use cookies to personalize content and ads and to analyze our traffic. We also share information about your use of our site with advertising and analytics partners who may combine it with other information that you’ve provided to them or that they’ve collected from your use of their services. You may consent to the use of cookies or opt out. AcceptRejectRead More
Privacy & Cookies Policy
Privacy Overview
This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
Leave a Reply