Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens
Best current price£141.00from Pro-Camera
Best offers
Shopping.co.uk recommended and popular offers
Pro-Camera£141.00Visit shop Canon Light Ef 50Mm F/1.8 Stm Lens
Visit shopPro-Camera£141.00Visit shop One Offer
1 offer from £141.00
View price history by clicking the chart icon.
Product Information
Full details
The Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens is an ideal choice for photographers and videographers seeking a versatile, compact, and affordable prime lens. Its key benefit lies in its exceptional low-light performance and ability to produce beautiful background blur, making it perfect for portraits and everyday shooting. A potential caveat for some users might be its fixed focal length, requiring users to "zoom with their feet."
All features
| Brand | Canon |
|---|
Extended Product Information
FAQs
What is the main advantage of the f/1.8 aperture?
The f/1.8 maximum aperture allows the lens to gather more light, making it excellent for shooting in low-light conditions. It also enables a shallow depth of field, creating a blurred background (bokeh) that helps your subject stand out.
Is this lens suitable for video recording?
Yes, the STM stepping motor provides smooth, quiet, and continuous autofocus that is ideal for video recording, especially when used with cameras that support Movie Servo AF.
What does 'STM' mean?
STM stands for Stepping Motor. This type of motor allows for precise and quiet autofocus operations, which is highly beneficial for video and minimizing noise during photo capture.
Will this lens work on my Canon EOS R camera?
Yes, the EF 50mm f/1.8 STM lens will work on Canon EOS R mirrorless cameras, but you will need an EF-EOS R Mount Adapter (sold separately).
What is the minimum focusing distance?
The minimum focusing distance for this lens is 0.35 meters (approximately 1.15 feet).
Does this lens have image stabilization?
No, this lens does not feature built-in image stabilization. You will rely on the camera's shutter speed or in-body stabilization (if your camera has it) to prevent motion blur.
What is the difference between the EF mount and RF mount?
EF is Canon's mount for DSLR cameras, while RF is their newer mount for mirrorless cameras. EF lenses can be used on RF bodies with an adapter, but RF lenses cannot be used on EF bodies.
Troubleshooting
Autofocus is slow or inaccurate
Ensure the camera's AF mode is set appropriately (e.g., One-Shot AF for stills, Movie Servo AF for video on compatible cameras). Clean the lens contacts and camera body contacts. Check that the minimum focus distance (0.35m) is not violated. Update camera firmware if available.
Lens produces blurry images
Confirm the lens is securely attached to the camera. Ensure the correct focal length is selected if using with a crop sensor camera and accounting for the crop factor. Check that the focus mode is set correctly (AF/MF). Verify the aperture is not set too wide (e.g., f/1.8) if critical sharpness is needed at the edges; stop down slightly (e.g., f/4 or f/5.6) for maximum sharpness.
Camera does not recognize the lens
Remove and reattach the lens, ensuring it clicks into place. Clean the electrical contacts on both the lens mount and the camera body with a dry microfiber cloth. Try the lens on another compatible camera body to determine if the issue is with the lens or the camera.
Lens has dust or internal haze
Minor external dust can be removed with a blower brush or microfiber cloth. Internal dust or haze usually requires professional cleaning and should not be attempted by the user, as it may cause further damage. Contact Canon service or a reputable repair shop.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Excellent value for its price point.
- Superb low-light performance thanks to the f/1.8 aperture.
- Quiet and smooth autofocus ideal for video recording.
- Produces beautiful background blur (bokeh) for subject isolation.
- Compact and lightweight for easy portability.
Cons
- Fixed focal length requires physical movement to reframe shots.
- Autofocus can be slower in very dim conditions compared to higher-end lenses.
- Plastic construction, while lightweight, may feel less robust than metal alternatives.
- No image stabilization built-in.
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Setup:
- Ensure your Canon EOS camera is powered off.
- Align the white dot on the lens mount with the corresponding mark on the camera body.
- Insert the lens and rotate it clockwise until it clicks securely into place.
- Remove the front and rear lens caps before shooting.
Compatibility:
This lens features a Canon EF mount and is compatible with all Canon EOS DSLR cameras (full-frame and APS-C). It can also be used with Canon EOS R-series mirrorless cameras via an EF-EOS R Mount Adapter (sold separately).
Care:
- Cleaning: Use a soft microfiber lens cloth to gently wipe the lens elements. For stubborn smudges, use a lens cleaning solution sparingly on the cloth, not directly on the lens. Never use abrasive materials or household cleaners.
- Storage: Store the lens in a clean, dry place, preferably in a lens pouch or its original box, with the caps attached to protect the elements.
- Environment: Avoid exposing the lens to extreme temperatures, humidity, sand, or dust. If shooting in dusty or wet conditions, use a protective filter and consider weather-sealed camera bodies and lenses.
- Handling: Always handle the lens by its body, not by the focusing ring or hood, to avoid damage.