Dont have time to read my thoughts? More of a visual person? Here is the YouTube video covering the same info- CLICK HERE
Today I want to talk about my current favorite RF lens. This thing is such a wonderful tool. I like to think of it as the Leatherman of lenses that I own. Portraits - check, Products- check - Weddings, everyday, commercial it does it all. Let me move this RF 50 1.2 out of the way, there it is my 100 mm macro lens. I know everyone is loving the 50, and rightfully so. It is incredible but it also feels boring to shoot 50mm all the time. I know , I know but its 1.2 and its hella sharp with wonderful Canon colors, and that out of focus area and Bokeh are stuff legends are made of. Your not wrong but I find myself always reaching for the bigger brother instead. its not as capable in low light, your right. It’s almost a thousand dollars less, true again. Its faster to focus, I hear you but…
Let me start by saying I also adore the 50 1.2 and this is my second version. I had the EF version as well and that lens was softer but in a wonderful way. Sometimes lenses are too sharp to be flattering and over clinical. The 50 is border line for me but I wouldn’t dream of letting it go either. This isn’t about that though, it’s about the unsung hero. The 100mm. This is a lens I have always wanted and never owned. The EF version was always in the cart but I couldn’t pull the trigger but when I decided it was time to move back to Canon and to the R5 specifically, I knew I wanted the RF version of this lens. So why is this one my favorite? Let’s dive in.
I can go on and on about my affection for this piece of plastic and glass, topped off with a bright red Canon Ring for a bow on top but what do I wish were different? No lens is perfect, period but yes the RF 50 is as close as i have ever seen. Let’s start with the gimmicky adjustable bokeh ring.. Why? Just why? I do think I will find a way to utilize this but I dont want to. I want to shoot and connect with my clients above all else, not be thinking, what’s around me might be interesting to shoot much softer? Vanessa Joy has a YouTube video showing some comparison of these settings so check that out here if you are curious about those.
It’s extremely versatile. I truly think its the best portrait lens currently available in the RF lineup. Yes the 85 is wonderful ( im sure, though I don’t own this lens- not a big 85mm guy either ) but what if I told you invisible backgrounds aren’t the only way to shoot? Shots fired!! This guy with the throat tattoo is being ridiculous but hear me out. Let me start by saying my favorite focal lengths are 24, 35, 135, and I really want a telephoto lens soon but haven’t decided which one. Yes, no 50, or 85 in my “favorite” options. Not hating but that’s my style.
The 100 fits nicely between 85 and the incredible 135mm focal range, and would be the last lens I let go of if and when something else catches my eye. The EF version was well know for its Macro capabilities, and for good reason, it was about the only option available especially if your a fan of that RED Canon L ring on top. Studio Portrait photographers also understand how well it works for headshots and portraits. The RF version is the next step in the evolution of this lens. It is SHARP and beautifully so. It also has some character which is the #1 thing I want in a lens. I still lean hard into my M mount adapted Voigtlander 35mm 1.7 lens on the R5. It it perfect, not even close, but it has feeling. The 100 isn’t that prominent but still feels different. The fall off at 100mm is stunning in itself and also gives you some space between you and your talent, that often lets the subject be more relaxed. It also checks all the boxes for shooting products or commercial work. It is a macro lens after all and you want to sell lashes? Shoot it on this lens, it pops off the screen. Or maybe you also love photography off the clock and hike and travel. It takes wonderful detail images in nature, can easily be used to capture candid moments with friends and families and its a wedding day work horse too.
Micro stamp by Clever Supply Co on this incredible leather camera strap.