UPDATE: Canon’s latest lens, the 45mm f/1.2 STM, is set to revolutionize portrait photography with its compact design and affordability, making it a must-have for both professionals and enthusiasts. Just announced, this lens offers a unique blend of portability and high performance, allowing photographers to capture stunning images during daily activities, travel, or weddings.
In a compelling video review released earlier today, photographer Alex Cooke takes the 45mm f/1.2 to a secluded beach, showcasing its capabilities in real-world settings rather than traditional studio tests. The review captures a variety of shots, from full-body frames to intimate portraits, effectively demonstrating how the lens performs on the move.
This lens navigates the sweet spot between 35mm and 50mm, providing enough width for storytelling while maintaining flattering subject isolation. The video features dynamic clips shot on the Canon EOS RP, highlighting the lens’s subject separation and rendering even during motion.
The 45mm f/1.2 STM weighs only 12.2 oz (346 g) and features a maximum aperture of f/1.2, making it ideal for capturing images with a soft, dreamy aesthetic. Cooke emphasizes the lens’s flexibility, allowing photographers to step back for environmental portraits while still being close enough to engage with subjects.
However, the review also addresses some compromises that come with the lens’s compact design, particularly in terms of optical performance. Cooke notes that the lens relies on in-camera corrections for vignetting and distortion, which can introduce noise in low-light conditions. This transparency about the lens’s limitations adds depth to the review, making it invaluable for potential buyers.
The autofocus performance is tested across various camera bodies, including the Canon EOS RP, providing insights into how well the lens performs at f/1.2. Key handling details, such as its lightweight build and straightforward controls, are demonstrated in real shooting scenarios, rather than merely listed as specifications.
In the latter part of the video, Cooke compares the 45mm f/1.2 with other Canon primes, including the RF 50mm f/1.2L USM and RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM. Side-by-side crops reveal the lens’s strengths and weaknesses, particularly in sharpness and background blur, essential factors for photographers considering an upgrade.
As the photography community eagerly evaluates this new lens, many are likely to share Cooke’s insightful review. The 45mm f/1.2 STM is poised to become a favorite for those seeking high-quality results without the burden of heavier glass. Check out the full video for an in-depth look at how this lens fits within the current landscape of Canon’s offerings.
Photographer and meteorologist Alex Cooke captures the essence of modern photography, blending technical knowledge with practical application. His review sets the stage for what could be a significant shift in how portrait work is approached, making this lens a hot topic among creatives.
Stay tuned for more updates as the photography community reacts to this exciting new release.
