October 30, 2024 | Mark Goldstein |
Introduction
The Canon RF 50mm F1.4L VCM is a fast standard prime lens for Canon RF-mount 35mm full-frame mirrorless cameras.
This is a relatively compact and lightweight lens, weighing in at 580g and measuring 76.5x 99.3mm in diameter and length, yet it still offers a very bright maximum aperture of F1.4 for better low-light performance and bokeh effects.
It is very similar to the RF 35mm F1.4L VCM that was launched in June 2024 and the RF 28mm F1.4L VCM that was launched in November 2024.
All three lenses are the same size for easy swapping in video setups, with a very slight variation in weight and using the same 67mm filter size.
This is the latest model in a new generation of hybrid lenses for both photo and video, with Canon saying that there will be plenty of similar cross-over products to come in the future.
It features 14 elements in 11 groups including 1 UD and 2 aspherical elements, plus Super Spectra and Air Sphere coatings to help reduce flare and ghosting and a fluorine coating to protect the front element from dirt.
The minimum focusing distance is 40cm / 15.75" and it has a maximum magnification ratio of 0.15x.
A Nano USM and Voice Coil Motor deliver exceptional speed and near-silent operation and with minimal focus breathing due to the optical lens design.
It has an 11 blade diaphragm which creates an attractive blur to the out-of-focus areas of the image and it's fully weather-sealed.
It also boasts a clickless Iris / aperture ring with 32 steps between stops with a lock switch for the Auto position and a configurable lens function button.
There's also a configurable control ring on the lens barrel which allows you to quickly change the exposure compensation, shutter speed, aperture and ISO settings.
The Canon RF 50mm F1.4L VCM lens is priced at £1539.99 / €1749.99 in the UK and Europe, respectively.