The Canon RF 45mm F1.2 STM is a fast standard prime lens for Canon RF-mount 35mm full-frame mirrorless cameras. This compact and lightweight lens weighs 346g and measures 78x75mm in diameter and length, offering a bright maximum aperture of F1.2 for better low-light performance and bokeh effects.
Design and Features
The lens is comprised of 9 elements in 7 groups and features a Super Spectra coating to minimize ghosting and flare. Canon states that this lens offers the same level of image quality as the EF 50mm F1.2L. The lens also features a configurable lens control ring on the barrel, allowing for quick changes to exposure compensation, shutter speed, aperture, and ISO settings.
The lens has a 9-blade aperture that creates an attractive blur to out-of-focus areas and is compatible with Canon’s focus breathing correction technology. It accepts 67mm filters and has an optional lens hood (ES-73B) available for purchase separately.
Performance
In use, the lens feels well-balanced on a full-frame camera like the EOS R6 Mark III, providing a “normal” field of view. The build quality is good, with a solid feel despite the all-plastic construction and metal mount. However, the lens does not have a weather-resistant design or optical image stabilizer.
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The STM motor provides smooth and quiet continuous AF, making it suitable for video recording. The lens also offers full-time manual focusing, even when AF is selected, although it emits an audible “whining” noise that makes it less suitable for video.
They provide an angle of view of 51° 20, and chromatic aberrations are not especially apparent in test shots.
It offers a minimum focusing distance of 0.45m with a maximum magnification of 0.13x.
Image Quality
The lens produces nice bokeh for a wide-angle lens. However, bokeh evaluation is subjective, and examples are provided for further review.
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Compared to other lenses in its class, the Canon RF 45mm F1.2 STM offers a unique combination of compact size, fast aperture, and affordable price. While it may not have all the features of more expensive lenses, it provides a great balance of image quality and value, making it an attractive option for photographers looking for a versatile and portable prime lens.
The lens is priced at £479.99 / €549.99 / $469.99 in the UK, Europe, and USA, respectively, and is available to purchase from November 20th, 2025. It is made in Malaysia.
Canon’s pricing strategy makes the lens more accessible to a wider range of photographers.
