Shooting Secrets: How the Canon EF S 18-135mm vs. Canon EF 50mm Lenses Transform Your Photography

Choosing the right camera can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular choices among photographers are the Canon EOS 700D paired with the EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens and the Canon EOS M50 paired with the EF 50mm f/1.8 STM lens. Both cameras offer distinct advantages and cater to different shooting styles. This blog post delves into the key differences, pros, and cons of each setup to help you determine which one best suits your needs.

Understanding the Players: Canon EOS 700D and Canon EOS M50

The Canon EOS 700D, released in 2013, was a popular choice for entry-level DSLR users. It boasts an 18-megapixel APS-C sensor and a 9-point autofocus system. While not the latest model, it still offers decent image quality and performance.
The Canon EOS M50, launched in 2018, is a mirrorless camera with a 24.1-megapixel APS-C sensor and a 143-point autofocus system. It features a more modern design, advanced features like 4K video recording, and a touch-sensitive LCD screen.

Lens Choices: EF-S 18-135mm vs. EF 50mm

The EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens offers a versatile zoom range, making it suitable for a wide variety of subjects, from landscapes to portraits. However, its aperture is not as wide as the EF 50mm f/1.8 STM lens, limiting its capabilities in low light conditions.
The EF 50mm f/1.8 STM lens is a popular choice for portrait photography due to its wide aperture, which allows for shallow depth of field and beautiful bokeh effects. Its fixed focal length makes it ideal for capturing sharp, detailed images, but it lacks the versatility of a zoom lens.

Image Quality: A Detailed Comparison

Canon EOS 700D with EF-S 18-135mm:

• Image Quality: The 700D delivers good image quality with decent dynamic range. However, noise becomes noticeable at higher ISO settings.
• Lens Performance: The EF-S 18-135mm lens provides sharp images at the center of the frame, but sharpness can decline towards the edges, especially at wider apertures.

Canon EOS M50 with EF 50mm:

• Image Quality: The M50 boasts a higher resolution sensor, resulting in sharper images with better detail and a wider dynamic range. It also handles noise better than the 700D, especially at high ISO settings.
• Lens Performance: The EF 50mm f/1.8 STM lens delivers exceptional sharpness and excellent bokeh, making it ideal for portraits and low-light photography.

Performance and Features: A Side-by-Side Analysis

Canon EOS 700D:

• Autofocus: The 700D’s 9-point autofocus system is decent but not as advanced as the M50’s 143-point system.
• Video Recording: It can record 1080p video at 30fps, but lacks 4K recording capabilities.
• Features: The 700D offers basic features like Wi-Fi connectivity and a built-in flash.

Canon EOS M50:

• Autofocus: The M50’s 143-point autofocus system is fast and accurate, particularly for tracking moving subjects.
• Video Recording: It supports 4K video recording at 24p, 25p, and 30p, making it a great option for videographers.
• Features: The M50 offers advanced features like a touch screen, electronic viewfinder, and a variety of shooting modes.

Ergonomics and Design: A Matter of Preference

Canon EOS 700D:

• Design: The 700D features a classic DSLR design with a large grip and a dedicated viewfinder. It feels comfortable to hold and operate.
• Size and Weight: Being a DSLR, it is larger and heavier than the M50.

Canon EOS M50:

• Design: The M50 is a compact mirrorless camera with a smaller grip and a tilting LCD screen. It is more portable and easier to carry around.
• Size and Weight: The M50’s smaller size and lighter weight make it a more convenient option for travel and everyday photography.

Price and Value: Finding the Best Deal

Canon EOS 700D with EF-S 18-135mm:

• Price: The 700D is typically more affordable than the M50, especially when purchasing used.
• Value: It offers decent image quality and performance at a budget-friendly price.

Canon EOS M50 with EF 50mm:

• Price: The M50 is more expensive than the 700D, but it offers a more modern design and advanced features.
• Value: It provides great value for its price, delivering excellent image quality, 4K video recording, and a user-friendly interface.

Who Should Choose Which Camera?

Canon EOS 700D with EF-S 18-135mm:

• Ideal for: Budget-conscious photographers looking for a versatile zoom lens and a classic DSLR experience.
• Not ideal for: Videographers or photographers who prioritize low light performance, high ISO image quality, and advanced features.

Canon EOS M50 with EF 50mm:

• Ideal for: Photographers who want a compact, lightweight camera with excellent image quality, 4K video recording, and a modern user interface.
• Not ideal for: Photographers who need a dedicated viewfinder or prefer the feel of a DSLR.

Final Verdict: The Best Camera for Your Needs

Ultimately, the best camera for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. The Canon EOS 700D with EF-S 18-135mm lens is a solid choice for entry-level photographers seeking a budget-friendly and versatile camera. However, the Canon EOS M50 with EF 50mm lens offers superior image quality, advanced features, and a more modern design for those seeking a more advanced and portable option.

Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Other Options

While the Canon EOS 700D and Canon EOS M50 are excellent choices, it’s essential to explore other options that might better suit your specific needs. Consider researching newer models like the Canon EOS 850D or the Canon EOS M6 Mark II. These cameras offer even more advanced features, improved image quality, and enhanced performance.

Questions You May Have

Q: Can I use the EF 50mm lens on the Canon EOS 700D?
A: Yes, you can use the EF 50mm f/1.8 STM lens on the Canon EOS 700D. However, you won’t be able to utilize the full potential of the lens due to the 700D’s 9-point autofocus system.
Q: Which camera is better for video recording?
A: The Canon EOS M50 is the better choice for video recording due to its 4K capabilities, advanced autofocus system, and touch screen interface.
Q: What are the pros and cons of using a zoom lens vs. a prime lens?
A: Zoom lenses offer versatility, allowing you to adjust the focal length without changing lenses. Prime lenses typically offer wider apertures, sharper images, and better bokeh effects.
Q: Is it worth upgrading from the Canon EOS 700D to the Canon EOS M50?
A: If you’re looking for better image quality, 4K video recording, and a more modern user interface, upgrading to the Canon EOS M50 is worth considering. However, if you’re satisfied with the 700D’s performance and prefer the DSLR experience, there’s no need to upgrade.