Canon RF 45mm f/1.2 STM
Canon Canon RF Mount

Canon RF 45mm f/1.2 STM

By Camera Reviews Editorial Team ยท Last updated February 18, 2026

45mm f/1.2

Focal Length
45mm
Max Aperture
f/1.2
Weight
346g

Full Specifications

Focal Length 45mm
Maximum Aperture f/1.2
Lens Mount Canon RF
Optical Stabilization No
Autofocus Motor STM
Minimum Focus Distance 0.45m
Weight 346g
Dimensions 78 x 75 mm
Optical Elements 9 elements
Optical Groups 7 groups

What Users Think

Pros

  • Lightweight and compact design compared to other f/1.2 lenses, making it ideal for travel.
  • Exceptional low-light performance, allowing for shooting at ISO 400-800 without significant noise.
  • Good optical performance when stopped down to f/1.8, comparable to the RF 50mm f/1.8 STM.
  • Decent character in photos, with a pleasing bokeh despite some issues.
  • Affordable price at around $469, making it accessible for many hobbyist photographers.
  • Focal length of 45mm offers a nice balance between 35mm and 50mm, suitable for various types of photography.

Cons

  • Focus shift issues when stopping down from f/1.2 to f/1.8, affecting accuracy.
  • Some users report corner softness and noticeable chromatic aberration at wide open.
  • Background blur can be uneven, which some users described as 'nervous' bokeh.
  • Slower autofocus performance compared to other RF lenses, particularly when tracking fast-moving subjects.

Community Verdict

Overall, the Canon RF 45mm f/1.2 STM lens has garnered positive reviews for its lightweight design and affordable price, making it a valuable option for hobbyists. However, potential users should consider its optical imperfections and autofocus performance, especially in dynamic shooting situations.

"{'text': "The RF 45mm is a portrait lens; it's not the perfect optically.", 'context': "Comment from a user comparing the lens's versatility for travel vs dedicated portrait lenses."}"

- Reddit user

"{'text': 'The autofocus is not fast... makes my R3 feel dumb.', 'context': 'User feedback on the slow autofocus while shooting video.'}"

- Reddit user

"{'text': 'At the same time, the 45mm focal length does not completely dissolve the background like fast telephoto lenses do.', 'context': 'Observation on depth of field characteristics noted in user reviews.'}"

- Reddit user

Want the Full Story?

Read our comprehensive review covering optical quality, sharpness, bokeh, autofocus performance, build quality, and more.

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