UPDATE: Canon has just unveiled its groundbreaking 45mm f/1.2 STM lens, promising to revolutionize portrait and video work for creators everywhere. This compact and lightweight lens, priced at $599, challenges the norm of bulky, expensive glass, making high-quality portrait photography accessible for everyday use.
In an engaging new video, photographer Alex Cooke demonstrates the lens in a real-world setting, taking it to a scenic beach location to showcase its versatility. The video captures a range of shots, including full-body frames, mid-length portraits, and tighter compositions, all while moving fluidly through the scene. The 45mm focal length sits perfectly between 35mm and 50mm, providing enough width to capture environmental context while still offering flattering close-ups.
With a maximum aperture of f/1.2, this lens produces a beautifully soft background blur, allowing photographers to focus on their subjects without distortion. Cooke highlights how the lens performs in varying light conditions, providing a “natural” feel to images without the drawbacks often seen in shorter focal lengths.
This lens is designed for the Canon RF mount, providing full-frame coverage with an impressive minimum focus distance of 1.5 feet (45 cm) and a maximum magnification of 0.13x (1:7.7 reproduction). Weighing in at approximately 12.2 oz (346 g) and featuring a straightforward design, the 45mm f/1.2 STM aims to be a reliable companion for photographers on the go.
As the video progresses, Cooke delves into the optical compromises that allow such a compact lens to exist at this price point. Viewers can see firsthand how the lens may require in-camera or software corrections for vignetting and distortion, particularly in low-light situations. He also points out instances where the bokeh takes on sharper edges, comparing it to more expensive alternatives.
The autofocus capabilities are tested across various Canon models, including the EOS RP. This real-time testing allows potential users to assess whether the autofocus performance at f/1.2 meets their needs.
For those already invested in Canon RF primes, the latter part of the video compares the 45mm against other popular options, including the RF 50mm f/1.2L USM and RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM. Side-by-side comparisons reveal how the 45mm holds its own in terms of central sharpness, while also displaying the differences in background blur under busy conditions.
Cooke also examines video performance, focusing on autofocus, focus breathing, and noise levels. These factors are crucial for creators who shoot dynamic content or talking-head segments.
The Canon 45mm f/1.2 STM lens is poised to be a versatile addition to any photographer’s toolkit, offering a balance of quality and practicality. Check out the full video above for an in-depth review from Alex Cooke, and consider how this lens might elevate your creative work today.
This lens is not just an upgrade; it’s a potential game-changer for those who seek to blend storytelling with stunning visual clarity.
