Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM Lens

Introduction to the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM Lens

The Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM lens is a versatile prime lens designed for Canon’s RF mount mirrorless cameras. Combining a wide-angle perspective with macro capabilities and a bright aperture, this lens is suitable for a variety of photography genres, from landscapes and street photography to close-up shots of small subjects.

Optical Performance and Image Quality

The RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM lens features a fast maximum aperture of f/1.8, allowing for excellent performance in low-light conditions and beautiful background blur (bokeh). The lens incorporates Canon’s advanced optical technology to deliver sharpness and clarity across the frame, making it ideal for both still photography and video recording.

Versatile Focal Length and Macro Capability

With its 35mm focal length, the lens provides a natural perspective that closely resembles human vision, making it suitable for capturing everyday scenes and environmental portraits. Additionally, the lens offers a 1:2 maximum magnification ratio for macro photography, enabling close-up shots with intricate details of subjects like flowers, insects, or small objects.

Optical Design and Construction

The optical design of the RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM lens includes 11 elements in 9 groups, which include one aspherical element and one Ultra-low Dispersion (UD) element. These elements help minimize spherical aberrations and chromatic aberrations while maintaining high resolution and contrast throughout the aperture range.

Hybrid Image Stabilization System

Equipped with Canon’s Hybrid Image Stabilization (IS) system, the lens provides up to 5 stops of stabilization, compensating for both angular and shift camera shake. This feature is invaluable when shooting handheld in low-light conditions or when using slower shutter speeds, ensuring sharp images and steady video footage.

STM Motor for Smooth and Quiet Autofocus

The RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM lens incorporates a Stepping Motor (STM) for fast, precise, and virtually silent autofocus performance. This makes it suitable for capturing stills and recording videos without disturbing the subject, making it ideal for documentary-style shooting and vlogging.

Close-up Photography and Macro Capability

For macro enthusiasts, the lens offers a close-focusing distance of 0.17m (0.56 ft.) and a maximum magnification of 0.5x, enabling detailed close-up shots with a shallow depth of field. This capability expands creative possibilities, allowing photographers to explore the intricate details of small subjects.

Compact and Lightweight Design

Weighing approximately 305g (10.8 oz.) and measuring 74.4mm (2.9 in.) in length, the RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM lens is compact and lightweight, enhancing portability and comfort during extended shooting sessions. Its small form factor complements Canon’s mirrorless cameras, making it an excellent choice for travel and everyday photography.

Enhanced Control and Handling

The lens features a customizable Control Ring that can be assigned to adjust exposure settings such as aperture, shutter speed, ISO, or exposure compensation. This provides intuitive control over key parameters, enhancing the shooting experience for both stills and video.

Compatibility and Mount

Designed specifically for Canon’s RF mount mirrorless cameras, the RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM lens ensures seamless integration and compatibility with Canon EOS R series cameras. It supports advanced features such as Dual Pixel CMOS AF for fast and accurate autofocus performance across the frame.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM lens combines versatile focal length, macro capability, and advanced optical technologies in a compact and lightweight design. Whether capturing everyday scenes, macro details, or creating cinematic videos, this lens delivers exceptional image quality and performance for photographers and videographers alike.