Canon EF 50mm f/1.2L USM
Announced August 24, 2006
PixelMeter The PixelMeter is our 1–100 aggregate of reviewer scores from trusted publications and creators. Weighted by source tier — not a raw average, and not PetaPixel’s own review.
Reviewer Consensus
Strong
The Canon EF 50mm f/1.2L USM is a professional-grade prime lens prized for its unique ability to isolate subjects with a shallow depth of field and beautiful bokeh. That said, its optical performance shows its age, featuring significant softness at wide apertures and noticeable chromatic aberration compared to modern designs.
Weighted from 13 reviewer scores
Pros
- Smooth, attractive bokeh and depth-of-field control
- Excellent build quality and weather sealing
- Bright f/1.2 aperture for low-light shooting
- Accurate and quiet ring-type USM autofocus
- Strong color rendition and contrast
Cons
- High price relative to other options
- Softness and low contrast at wide apertures
- Significant chromatic aberration and color fringing
- Dated optical design with distortion and focus issues
- Heavy vignetting and corner light fall-off
- Launch price $1,599 (USD)
- Focal length & aperture 50mm f/1.2
- Mount & coverage Canon EF Full-Frame
- Stabilization None
- Close focus 45 cm (0.15x)
- Filter thread 72mm
- Autofocus motor Ring-type ultrasonic
- Weight & size 580g (1 lb 4.5 oz) · 85.8 x 65.5 mm (3.38 x 2.58 in)
What the Reviewers Say
All 13 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
Is this product missing a reputable review? Share a link to a review article or YouTube video for consideration.
-
All-in-all one of the weaker MTF curves that we've seen here. To be fair - the lens is simply designed to produce usable results at ultra large apertures and in this focal length class this is obviously only possible by compromising the peak performance.
-
I can't say that the Canon EF 50mm f/1.2L USM Lens is as great of a value as the 50 f/1.4, but I do think it is worth the price to serious photographers who need what it can deliver.
-
This is a specialist tool, and thus not for everyone, but I wouldn’t be surprised if the Canon EF 50mm f/1.2L USM ends up being one of your favorite lenses in your kit.
-
If your intended use requires good centre sharpness, and the ability to reduce depth of field to the minimum, not much else comes close.
- Photo Review 8.5/10
While its predecessor was the fastest (and one of the most expensive) mass-production lens ever made, by sacrificing two thirds of a stop, Canon was able to reduce the price of the lens significantly, although the 50mm f/1.2L USM remains very expensive for a standard prime lens.
-
I highly recommend the 50 f/1.2 if you own a Canon or Sony E mount body (full frame). If you love a fast 50 as much as I do and have not yet tried this lens, you have committed a photographic crime.
-
It's very good at f/1.2 and of course fantastic from f/2.8 and smaller.
-
The optics are certainly worth the investment. Though, for the professional shooter who may bang their camera around and find themselves without a lot of choice as to where they’re positioned for the shot by way of contrast and control of flare; the 50mm f/1.2 delivers.
-
There's little doubt that if we ignore the price then the Canon EF 50/1.2L USM is Canon's best 50mm lens. It's sharp, fast, well built, weathersealed and supports E-TTL II flash operation. The only question is one of value rather than cost.
-
It’s a perfect lens for a beginning professional because it automatically takes your photos to a new level.
-
If you're a Canon shooter and you're shooting with an EF mount camera and you want the best 50 millimeter lens that the system has to offer, this is your lens. You will not regret it.
-
This lens is a winner, get your hands on it, let us know what you think.
-
I don't film with it but it does do a fantastic job at portrait photography as well as capturing any details from a wedding day or even with this amazing fluffy bouquet of peonies like how beautiful is this right you guys.
