Canon EF 50mm f/1.2L USM Standard Lens
Best current price£1,107.99from eBay
Best offers
Shopping.co.uk recommended and popular offers
eBay£1,107.99Visit shop Canon EF 50mm f/1.2L USM Lens F1.2L
Visit shopeBay£1,107.99Visit shop One Offer
1 offer from £1,107.99
View price history by clicking the chart icon.
Product Information
Full details
The Canon EF 50mm f/1.2L USM lens is designed for photographers seeking exceptional low-light performance and shallow depth-of-field capabilities. Its key benefit is the ability to capture stunning images in challenging lighting conditions with beautiful bokeh. A potential caveat is its premium price point, reflecting its professional-grade features. This lens offers L-series optics, a wide f/1.2 aperture, fast and quiet Ultrasonic Motor autofocus, and advanced lens coatings for superior image quality.
All features
| Brand | Canon |
|---|
Extended Product Information
FAQs
What is the main advantage of the f/1.2 aperture?
The f/1.2 aperture allows for shooting in very low light conditions without needing a flash, and it provides a very shallow depth of field for artistic subject isolation and background blur (bokeh).
Is this lens suitable for videography?
Yes, the ultrasonic motor (USM) provides fast and nearly silent autofocus, which is beneficial for capturing video without distracting operational noise. The shallow depth of field can also be used creatively in video.
Does this lens come with a lens hood?
Yes, the EF 50mm f/1.2L USM lens comes supplied with a cylindrical lens hood to help prevent lens flare and ghosting.
What does 'L-series' mean for this lens?
L-series signifies Canon's top-tier professional lens range, characterized by superior optical quality, robust build construction, and advanced features like dust and moisture resistance.
Can I use this lens on a Canon EOS R mirrorless camera?
Yes, you can use this EF lens on Canon EOS R mirrorless cameras with the appropriate EF-EOS R mount adapter. Performance should be similar to using it on a DSLR.
How does the Super Spectra coating help?
The Super Spectra coatings help to suppress internal reflections, reducing lens flare and ghosting. They also contribute to accurate color balance and increased contrast for vibrant images.
What is the minimum focusing distance?
The minimum focusing distance for this lens is approximately 0.45 meters (1.48 feet).
Troubleshooting
Autofocus is slow or hunting.
Ensure good lighting conditions and sufficient contrast in your subject. Clean the lens contacts on both the lens and camera body. Try switching to manual focus override for precise adjustments.
Blurry images at f/1.2.
At f/1.2, the depth of field is extremely shallow. Ensure your focus point is precisely on the desired area of your subject. Consider stopping down the aperture slightly (e.g., to f/1.4 or f/2) for a slightly deeper depth of field if needed.
Lens appears unresponsive to camera.
Check that the lens is securely mounted. Clean the electrical contacts on both the lens and the camera body with a dry, lint-free cloth. Try the lens on a different compatible camera body if possible.
Excessive flare or ghosting.
Use the provided lens hood to block stray light. Ensure the lens elements are clean. Be mindful of shooting directly into very bright light sources, as even with coatings, extreme conditions can cause flare.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Exceptional low-light performance due to the f/1.2 aperture.
- Produces beautiful, creamy bokeh for subject isolation and artistic effect.
- Fast and silent autofocus is ideal for video and candid photography.
- Durable, weather-sealed L-series construction for professional use.
- Excellent image quality with reduced flare and ghosting.
Cons
- Higher price point compared to lenses with smaller maximum apertures.
- Can be relatively large and heavy for some camera setups.
- Autofocus can occasionally hunt in extremely dark or low-contrast situations.
- Requires careful handling despite weather sealing.
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Setup:
This lens features a standard Canon EF mount and is compatible with all Canon EOS DSLR cameras. Simply align the lens mount index with the corresponding mark on the camera body and rotate the lens clockwise until it clicks into place. To detach, press the lens release button on the camera and rotate the lens counter-clockwise.
Compatibility:
Designed for Canon EOS digital SLR cameras featuring an EF lens mount. It also provides distance information to the E-TTL II flash system on compatible EOS cameras, enhancing flash metering accuracy.
Care:
- Cleaning: Use a soft, lint-free microfiber cloth to clean the lens elements. For stubborn smudges, a lens cleaning solution can be applied sparingly to the cloth, never directly to the lens. Use a blower brush to remove dust before wiping.
- Storage: Store the lens in its provided soft case when not in use to protect it from dust, scratches, and impacts. Avoid storing in extremely humid or hot environments.
- Weather Sealing: While dust and moisture-resistant, this lens is not waterproof. Avoid prolonged exposure to heavy rain or submersion in water. Ensure the camera body also has adequate weather sealing for optimal protection.
- Handling: Always handle the lens with care, avoiding sharp impacts.