The Canon RF 50mm f/1.4 L VCM, has finally arrived, promising sharp images and versatile use. Here's a look at what you can expect.
Coming to you from Christopher Frost, this detailed video breaks down the new Canon RF 50mm f/1.4 L VCM lens. Frost explains that while the lens is costly at around $1,400, it does offer premium build quality, solid weather-sealing, and a bright maximum aperture perfect for low-light shooting or portraiture. He demonstrates the lens’ silent and accurate autofocus, powered by a voice coil motor (VCM), ideal for both photo and video work. You’ll also learn about the lens’ aperture ring, which smoothly transitions and can lock in place, though it currently only functions fully in still mode with certain newer Canon cameras or in video mode with existing ones. Frost’s honest assessment highlights that, despite excellent central sharpness from f/1.4, optimal sharpness across the frame typically requires stopping down slightly.
An especially useful part of Frost’s evaluation is his detailed testing of image sharpness and optical performance across different apertures and sensor sizes. On a full frame sensor like the EOS R5, the lens delivers excellent sharpness and contrast in the image center right from f/1.4, achieving exceptional clarity by f/2. On an APS-C sensor like the EOS R7, it maintains strong performance, though corners remain softer until about f/4. Frost also notes minimal distortion and typical vignetting wide open, which substantially improves by f/2.8. Close-up shooting performance is strong at 40 cm minimum focusing distance, with very good sharpness achieved when stopped down slightly. He openly discusses the lens’ mild flare tendencies and decent handling of coma and chromatic aberration, ensuring you’re aware of potential limitations.
Key Specs
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Focal Length: 50mm
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Maximum Aperture: f/1.4
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Minimum Aperture: f/16
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Lens Mount: Canon RF
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Format Coverage: Full Frame
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Angle of View: 46°
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Minimum Focus Distance: 15.7" / 39.9 cm
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Maximum Magnification: 0.15x
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Optical Design: 14 Elements in 11 Groups
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Diaphragm Blades: 11
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Autofocus: Voice Coil Motor (VCM)
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Image Stabilization: No
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Filter Size: 67 mm (Front)
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Dimensions: 3 x 3.9" / 76.2 x 99.1 mm
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Weight: 1.3 lb / 580 g
Frost offers balanced insights into the bokeh characteristics of this lens, pointing out minor drawbacks like onion-ring patterns in specular highlights and some corner distortions—common concerns among detail-oriented shooters. He stresses that despite these slight imperfections, the overall rendering of backgrounds remains pleasing and practical for professional usage. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Frost.
