Pros & Cons
Pros
- Compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry, suitable for travel and casual photography.
- Offers a versatile focal length range (18-45mm) for everyday shooting, from landscapes to portraits.
- Incorporates image stabilization (IS), which helps reduce blur in low-light conditions and when shooting handheld.
- Significantly better image quality compared to smartphone cameras, meeting the needs of beginners looking to enhance their photography.
- Affordable lens option for new photographers, providing good value for its price compared to more expensive alternatives.
Cons
- Aperture range of f/4.5-6.3 is relatively slow, which limits performance in low-light situations and background separation.
- Image quality can sometimes be underwhelming, especially when compared to higher-end lenses, leading to frustrations for more experienced users.
- Max focal length of 45mm may feel limiting for some photographers who desire more zoom for wildlife or distant subjects.
- Resale value is low, making it less attractive for those looking to upgrade quickly.
- Not the best option for astrophotography due to slow apertures.
Verdict
Overall, the Canon RF-S 18-45mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM lens is well-received by beginner photographers for its compactness, versatility, and affordability. While it offers significant improvements over smartphone photography, experienced users may find its limitations in low light and aperture slow for more advanced uses.
Specifications
| Focal Length | 18-45mm |
| Max Aperture | f/4.5 |
| Min Aperture | f/32 |
| Mount | RF-S |
| OIS | Yes |
| Filter Size | 49mm |
| Dimensions | diameter x 76-103.1 mm |
| Optical Design | 7 elements in 7 groups |
| Price | $349 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Canon RF-S 18-45mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM compatible with full-frame Canon R cameras?
The lens mounts on any Canon RF-mount camera, including full-frame bodies, but it is designed for APS-C sensors. When used on a full-frame camera, the camera will automatically crop the sensor to APS-C mode, reducing resolution and field of view.
How effective is the image stabilization on this lens?
Canon claims up to 4 stops of optical image stabilization. In real-world use, most users achieve 2.5-3 stops, making handheld shots possible at slower shutter speeds or in low light-especially beneficial for beginner photographers.
Is this lens suitable for portrait photography?
The RF-S 18-45mm can handle casual portraits, especially at the long end (45mm), but limited aperture restricts background blur and subject isolation. For higher quality portraiture, a brighter prime lens (such as the RF 50mm f/1.8) will outperform it.
Does the lens have weather sealing?
No, the lens does not feature weather sealing. Users should avoid exposing it to rain, dust, or extreme conditions, especially since the extending barrel design can allow moisture or particles inside.
What lens hood is compatible, and is it included?
The lens does not ship with a hood, but the optional EW-53 hood is compatible and recommended for reducing flare and improving contrast.
Can this lens be used for video work?
Yes, the lens's STM focus motor delivers silent and smooth operation, ideal for video. The small size and stabilization further benefit vloggers and run-and-gun shooters, although its slow aperture will limit low-light performance.
Compatible Cameras
Camera bodies that work with this lens
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