Canon Portrait Lenses for Natural Light Photography
Are you a photographer looking to capture stunning portraits in natural light? Choosing the right lens is crucial to achieving the desired results. In this blog post, we will compare two Canon lenses specifically designed for portrait photography: the Canon RF 85mm F2 IS Macro STM and the Canon RF 50mm F1.8 STM. We'll discuss their features, differences, and help you decide which lens is best suited for your photography needs.
Canon RF 85mm F2 IS Macro STM
The Canon RF 85mm F2 IS Macro STM lens is a mid-range option priced just under $500 USD. While not classified as a true macro lens, it offers a 0.5x magnification, enabling you to get closer to your subjects. With a minimum focusing distance of 1.14 feet, you can capture intricate details and create stunning close-up shots.
One standout feature of this lens is its wide aperture of F2, allowing you to achieve a shallow depth of field and beautiful background blur, also known as bokeh. The lens is equipped with nine aperture blades, ensuring smooth and pleasing bokeh in your images. This lens excels in producing dreamy, larger-than-life portraits with a creamy background.
Another significant advantage of the RF 85mm F2 lens is its built-in image stabilization, providing up to seven stops of stabilization when paired with a compatible camera like the Canon EOS R6 Mark II. This feature helps reduce camera shake and ensures sharper images, especially when shooting handheld or in low-light conditions.
Canon RF 50mm F1.8 STM
The Canon RF 50mm F1.8 STM lens is an affordable option, priced at around $169 USD. With a wide maximum aperture of F1.8, this lens allows for excellent low-light performance and the ability to create a soft, blurred background. While it doesn't provide the same level of magnification as the 85mm lens, it still offers remarkable image quality and versatility.
The RF 50mm F1.8 STM lens features a lightweight and compact design, making it a convenient choice for photographers on the go. It easily fits in your camera bag, allowing you to capture spontaneous moments effortlessly. This lens is perfect for portrait photographers who frequently work with fast-moving subjects or need a versatile lens for various shooting scenarios.
Price and Practical Considerations
When choosing between these two lenses, price and shooting requirements play a crucial role. The RF 50mm F1.8 STM lens is the more budget-friendly option, while the RF 85mm F2 IS Macro STM offers additional features and a more unique focal length.
If you prioritize image stabilization, a shallow depth of field, and a larger focal length, the RF 85mm F2 IS Macro STM is an excellent investment. However, keep in mind that this lens requires more space to capture the desired composition effectively.
On the other hand, if you value portability, affordability, and a versatile focal length, the RF 50mm F1.8 STM lens is the ideal choice. Its lightweight design and wide aperture make it a reliable go-to lens for various portrait photography scenarios.
Conclusion
Both the Canon RF 85mm F2 IS Macro STM and the Canon RF 50mm F1.8 STM lenses are fantastic options for capturing beautiful portraits in natural light. While the 85mm lens offers a more unique focal length, image stabilization, and a dreamy background, the 50mm lens provides affordability, versatility, and excellent image quality.
Ultimately, the decision depends on your specific shooting style, budget, and the type of portraits you aim to capture. Consider your preferences and shooting requirements when selecting the lens that best suits your needs.
We hope this comparison has helped you gain insight into these two Canon portrait lenses. Let us know in the comments which lens you would choose first and what features you find most appealing. Happy shooting!
(Note: This blog post is written by Explorer of Light Vanessa Joy on behalf of Canon. Make sure to like and subscribe to Canon's YouTube channel for more informative content.)
