Shoot Like a Pro: Canon EOS R Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro vs Canon EOS R Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM – The Ultimate Camera Lens Battle Revealed!

The Canon EOS R system has quickly become a popular choice for photographers of all levels, offering a range of full-frame mirrorless cameras and lenses. Two popular options among Canon EOS R users are the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro and the **Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM**. Both lenses offer excellent value for money, but they cater to different photographic styles and needs. This blog post will delve into the key differences between these two lenses, helping you decide which one is the perfect fit for your photography journey.

Focal Length: The Foundation of Perspective

The most significant difference between the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro and the Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM is their focal length. The 35mm lens offers a slightly wider field of view, ideal for capturing landscapes, architecture, and street photography. It’s a versatile focal length that works well for various genres, making it a popular choice for everyday photography.
On the other hand, the 50mm lens provides a more classic perspective, often referred to as the “normal” focal length for full-frame cameras. This focal length mimics human vision, making it excellent for portraits, product photography, and candid shots. It’s a good choice for photographers who want a lens that feels natural and produces images with a pleasing depth of field.

Macro Capability: A Unique Advantage

The Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro stands out with its macro capability. This feature allows you to focus on subjects as close as 0.21 meters (8.3 inches) from the lens, enabling you to capture stunning close-up details of insects, flowers, and other small objects. The macro function opens up a whole new world of photographic possibilities, making the 35mm lens an excellent choice for photographers interested in macro photography.
The Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM, unfortunately, lacks macro capability. While it’s a fantastic lens for general photography, it’s not designed for close-up work. If you’re looking to capture detailed images of small subjects, the 35mm lens is the clear winner.

Image Stabilization: A Game-Changer for Handheld Shots

The Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro boasts a built-in image stabilization (IS) system. This feature helps to reduce camera shake, especially when shooting handheld in low light or at slower shutter speeds. Image stabilization is a valuable asset for photographers who want to capture sharp images without a tripod.
The Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM, on the other hand, lacks image stabilization. While it’s still a capable lens, photographers may find themselves needing to use a tripod more often, especially in challenging lighting conditions.

Aperture: Controlling Depth of Field

Both the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro and the Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM offer a maximum aperture of f/1.8. This wide aperture allows for shallow depth of field, blurring the background and isolating the subject. This effect is particularly useful for portraits, product photography, and other genres where you want to create a pleasing bokeh effect.

Autofocus Performance: Fast and Reliable

Both lenses feature a stepping motor (STM) autofocus system, ensuring smooth and quiet autofocus operation. This is crucial for video recording and capturing fast-moving subjects. The autofocus performance on both lenses is generally fast and accurate, making them reliable for everyday photography.

Build Quality and Design: Compact and Lightweight

Both the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro and the Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM are compact and lightweight, making them easy to carry and use. Their build quality is solid, with durable construction and weather-sealing for protection against the elements.

Price: A Competitive Edge

The Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro and the Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM are both priced competitively, offering excellent value for their features and performance. The 50mm lens is generally slightly cheaper than the 35mm lens, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious photographers.

Choosing the Right Lens: A Matter of Personal Style

Ultimately, choosing between the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro and the Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM comes down to your personal shooting style and needs. If you’re looking for a versatile lens with macro capability and image stabilization, the 35mm lens is an excellent choice. If you prioritize a classic perspective and a slightly lower price point, the 50mm lens might be the better option for you.

Beyond the Lens: Exploring Your Creative Vision

While the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro and the Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM are fantastic lenses, remember that the ultimate creative expression lies in your vision and how you use your tools. Experiment with different perspectives, lighting conditions, and subject matter to discover your unique photographic voice.

The Final Verdict: Your Photographic Journey Begins Now

Both the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro and the Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM are valuable additions to any Canon EOS R photographer’s kit. They offer excellent image quality, fast autofocus, and a compact design, making them ideal for a wide range of photographic pursuits. By understanding their strengths and weaknesses, you can choose the lens that best aligns with your creative goals and embark on your photographic journey with confidence.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Q1: Which lens is best for portraits?
A1: Both lenses can be used for portraits, but the 50mm lens is generally preferred for its classic perspective and natural rendering. However, the 35mm lens can also create compelling portraits, especially when you want a slightly wider field of view to include more of the environment.
Q2: Which lens is better for low-light photography?
A2: Both lenses have a maximum aperture of f/1.8, making them capable in low-light conditions. However, the 35mm lens‘s image stabilization gives it an edge in low light, allowing you to shoot handheld at slower shutter speeds and capture sharper images.
Q3: Which lens is more versatile?
A3: The 35mm lens is generally considered more versatile due to its wider field of view and macro capability, making it suitable for a broader range of subjects and situations.
Q4: Can I use these lenses for video recording?
A4: Yes, both lenses are excellent for video recording thanks to their smooth and quiet autofocus performance. The image stabilization on the 35mm lens can also be beneficial for video, especially handheld shots.
Q5: Are there any other lenses I should consider?
A5: Yes, there are several other excellent Canon RF lenses available, including the Canon RF 24-105mm f/4-7.1 IS STM, Canon RF 85mm f/2 IS STM, and Canon RF 100-400mm f/5.6-8 IS USM. The best lens for you will depend on your specific photographic needs and budget.