[2024] 5 BEST Lenses For Canon R5 - All Options Revealed

Dive into our detailed comparison to discover the best lens for your Canon R5. Our thorough analysis reveals the Canon RF 50mm f/1.2 as an outstanding option, offering superior sharpness and bokeh performance, making it a top choice for portraits and subject isolation.

November 14, 2023
[2024] 5 BEST Lenses For Canon R5 - All Options Revealed
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Canon R5 Lenses - My Top Picks

Hello, Seb here. If you're in search of the best lenses for the Canon R5, I'm your guy. I've had the privilege of using some phenomenal lenses with this camera that I think you'll love as much as I do. So let's dive in!

Lens Aperture Focal Length Weight Key Features Special Features Main Benefits
Canon RF 50mm f/1.2 f/1.2 50mm 2.09 lbs Outstanding sharpness, Bokeh performance Wide aperture at f/1.2 Excellent for portraits, isolating subjects
Rokinon AF 14mm F2.8 F2.8 14mm 1.01 lbs Great for astrophotography, Light capture Ultra-wide-angle Excellent for capturing starry landscapes
Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM f/2.8 15-35mm 1.85 lbs Versatile, Good for landscapes and street scenes Zoom capabilities Can capture large scenes
Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 f/1.8 35mm 0.67 lbs Compact size, Great image quality Impressive low-light performance Great for indoor shoots and short film projects
Laowa 15mm f/2 Zero-D f/2 15mm 1.10 lbs Ultra-wide-angle, Zero distortion Great for architecture and interior photography Can capture straight lines, wide field of view

Canon RF 50mm f/1.2: A Portrait Maestro

Ah, the Canon RF 50mm f/1.2. To me, it's the Lamborghini of portrait lenses. This lens offered an exceptional level of sharpness, even wide open at f/1.2. Shooting some of my colleagues at the studio, the lens's incredible bokeh performance allowed me to isolate subjects with razor precision. The color rendition and detail that I was able to capture with this lens are outstanding, making it a top pick for any Canon R5 owner.

Effortless Handling

Now, moving onto its ergonomics - the RF 50mm f/1.2 is quite a hefty lens, but there’s a saying: "You don't get something for nothing." The weight of the lens is a direct reflection of its build quality and, in this case, its large aperture capabilities. Holding this lens in your hands, you can feel its robust construction. Despite its weight, the lens balances well on the Canon R5, making the combination comfortable to use even for extended periods. On many an evening, I've found myself wandering around the city, camera in hand, finding that the weight is not an obstacle to getting those sharp, beautifully rendered shots.

Focusing Brilliance

Now, let’s touch upon the autofocus performance, an area where the Canon RF 50mm f/1.2 shines brightly. The lens uses Canon's Dual Pixel CMOS AF system, which is impressively fast and accurate. During my street photography escapades, I often found myself needing to quickly focus on moving subjects. The RF 50mm f/1.2 was always up to the task, locking onto subjects in the blink of an eye. The autofocus is not just fast, it's also eerily silent. This is especially useful when shooting video, ensuring the mic doesn't pick up any focusing noise.

Low Light Performance

This lens is a true champion in low light conditions, thanks to its wide f/1.2 aperture. This feature has been a game-changer in my night photography ventures. It allows the lens to let in a huge amount of light, enabling me to shoot in darker environments without raising the ISO too high. As a result, I've been able to capture a raft of exquisite nightscapes, brimming with detail and low in noise. Shooting at night, it felt like this lens was literally sucking in every available photon of light.

Video Shooting Experience

When it comes to video shooting, the RF 50mm f/1.2 transitions smoothly between focus points and offers a pleasing depth of field, which is great for getting that cinematic look. I have shot a few short films with this lens, and the quality of the footage has left me and my viewers thoroughly impressed. The lens's control ring is customizable, and I often assign it to manual focus control when shooting video, giving me precise control over my focus points.

Distortion and Chromatic Aberration

Lenses with wide apertures often suffer from distortion and chromatic aberration, but the RF 50mm f/1.2 manages these exceptionally well. In my test shots, I found very minimal barrel distortion and chromatic aberration, even when shooting wide open. This is a testament to the lens's superior optical design. Shooting a grid of straight lines, the edges remained largely true, and any instances of color fringing in high-contrast areas were almost imperceptible.

Weather-Sealing

Lastly, it's worth mentioning that this lens comes with a degree of weather-sealing. I've shot in light rain and in quite dusty environments without any issues, which gives me confidence in the lens's durability. But, as always, I recommend exercising caution and using common sense when using it in harsh conditions.

Rokinon AF 14mm F2.8: Starry-Eyed Wonder

As a VFX artist who loves astrophotography, the Rokinon AF 14mm F2.8 is my go-to. The first time I used it, I was blown away by the spectacular starscapes it produced. On a clear night, the detail and light capture are mind-blowing. When I used it for a time-lapse of the Milky Way, the sharpness and clarity were unparalleled, making it the best astrophotography lens for Canon R5 in my book.

Sweeping Field of View

Stepping into the heart of the experience, the Rokinon AF 14mm F2.8 offers a truly expansive field of view. This wide perspective is perfect for capturing the grandeur of the night sky. I remember standing on the edge of a quiet lake, the Milky Way arching overhead, and being able to capture the entire scene in a single frame. The lens allows for an inclusive perspective of the celestial dome, creating those magical, awe-inspiring shots where the galaxy seems to be swirling directly above you.

Minimal Coma and Astrophotography

Astrophotography requires a lens that can handle point light sources well, minimizing the coma effect - where stars can appear to have a tail, or look like a bird in flight. The Rokinon 14mm, I am pleased to report, manages this exceptionally well. In my star shots, I have found the lens to produce crisp, round stars right towards the edges of the frame. It is this ability to maintain sharpness and clarity across the frame that sets it apart for astrophotography.

Depth of Field and Landscape Astrophotography

When I combine astrophotography with landscape elements, the Rokinon AF 14mm F2.8 really comes into its own. Due to its ultra-wide nature, the lens can maintain a large depth of field, even at wider apertures. This means I can have both the stars and the landscape in focus in the same shot, producing those ethereal nightscapes where the Earth and the cosmos seem to meet.

Stellar Performance with Manual Focus

Manual focusing is a crucial aspect of astrophotography, and the Rokinon 14mm does a stellar job in this regard. The manual focus ring is smooth and well-damped, allowing for precise adjustments. While shooting the night sky, I’ve found that the lens has a hard stop at infinity, which makes achieving perfect focus on the stars a breeze.

The Art of Time-Lapse Photography

In the realm of time-lapse photography, the Rokinon AF 14mm F2.8 is a reliable companion. Its wide field of view enables capturing dramatic changes in the sky over time. The consistency in its performance, frame after frame, ensures a smooth and visually stunning time-lapse sequence. I’ve spent countless nights under starlit skies, capturing the motion of celestial bodies, and this lens has never failed to impress.

Flare Resistance

Lastly, flare resistance is a noteworthy feature. Shooting near a light source or the moon could lead to unwanted flares or ghosting in many lenses. However, the Rokinon 14mm manages these quite effectively, keeping unwanted artifacts to a bare minimum.

Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM: The Versatile Performer

The Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM lens is a workhorse. Whether it's landscape photography or street scenes, this lens never disappoints. Its wide-angle view and zoom capabilities make it ideal for capturing large scenes. I remember using this lens during a sunrise shoot at a local park; the images were stunning, showcasing excellent color and detail rendition.

The Flexibility of a Zoom Lens

When it comes to versatility, the Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM lens is a master of adaptability. It was on a bustling city street, lined with towering architecture and vibrant city life, where I first appreciated its wide-angle to standard zoom range. This lens allowed me to transition smoothly from capturing sweeping cityscapes to focusing on detailed street scenes without changing my lens. The versatility that this zoom lens offers makes it an invaluable asset when shooting on location where conditions and required shots can be unpredictable.

Excellence in Landscape Photography

For landscape photography, this lens truly shines. The wide-angle view allows you to capture vast landscapes in a single frame. On a trip to the Grand Canyon, I used this lens to capture the sweeping vistas, dramatic cliffs, and the dance of light and shadow across the geological marvel. The pictures were breathtaking, showcasing deep, rich colors and intricate details that truly conveyed the grandeur of the scene.

Stellar Performance in Low Light

The lens's maximum aperture of f/2.8 was a gift during the early morning and twilight hours. I found that it allowed me to capture sharp, well-exposed images even in low-light conditions. During a twilight cityscape shoot, the lens allowed me to capture the vibrant city lights and the rich hues of the sunset with impressive clarity. This wide aperture also enables beautiful background blur, adding a professional depth to my images.

Image Stabilization for Crystal Clear Shots

The built-in Image Stabilization (IS) is another feature of the Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM that deserves applause. While shooting handheld in the park, the IS system helped me achieve sharp, clear images, effectively compensating for camera shake. This feature is especially beneficial when working in low light conditions or when the use of a tripod isn’t possible.

Close Focusing Distance and Versatile Composition

In terms of composition, this lens opens up a realm of possibilities. The close focusing distance allowed me to take unique, wide-angle close-ups, introducing an exciting new perspective to my photography. During a shoot at a botanical garden, I was able to capture a close-up of a blooming flower with the wide expanse of the garden as its backdrop, all in the same frame.

Canon RF 35mm f/1.8: The Compact Powerhouse

Don't underestimate the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 because of its compact size. It is indeed one of the best RF lenses for Canon R5. On a recent short film project, this lens delivered exceptional image quality. Its impressive low-light performance was a lifesaver during indoor shoots.

The Power of Compactness

The Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 has a compactness that can be deceiving, for packed within its petite frame is a powerhouse of features. On a recent short film project, this lens proved its mettle. It's light, easy to handle, and straightforward to use, making it a favorite when I need to be mobile or shooting handheld.

Exceptional Image Quality

When it comes to image quality, the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 does not disappoint. This lens consistently produces sharp, clear, and vibrant images. I was particularly impressed with the details it captured during the filming of a character-driven short film. The fine textures of the actors' faces, the delicate fabric details, the nuanced color variations – everything was captured with meticulous precision.

Performance in Low Light

What sets the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 apart is its remarkable low-light performance. During the indoor shoots for our film, we found ourselves in challenging light situations more than once. However, the lens' wide aperture of f/1.8 came to our rescue, enabling us to capture well-exposed, noise-free images even in less than ideal lighting conditions. Its ability to gather light in dim situations made it an invaluable tool on set, significantly reducing the need for additional lighting equipment.

Impressive Macro Capability

Another feature that took me by surprise was its macro capability. This lens has a close focusing distance, which means it can be used to capture macro shots with impressive detail. During a scene where the character finds a key detail in a document, this feature came in handy, allowing us to capture the minute detail in full clarity, adding a new layer of storytelling to our film.

Laowa 15mm f/2 Zero-D: The Ultra-Wide Maestro

Lastly, I'd like to talk about the Laowa 15mm f/2 Zero-D. An ultra-wide-angle lens with virtually zero distortion (hence the Zero-D), it’s perfect for architecture and interior photography. I used it for a real estate shoot recently, and the results were impressive. The property's straight lines were perfectly captured, and the wide field of view made the rooms look spacious and inviting.

The Magic of Zero Distortion

Diving into the world of the Laowa 15mm f/2 Zero-D, one quickly realizes the "Zero-D" isn't just a clever moniker. The lens promises virtually zero distortion, and it indeed delivers. During a real estate shoot I did recently, the lens truly stood out. Often, when using ultra-wide-angle lenses, straight lines within the frame can warp at the edges, but not with the Laowa 15mm f/2. It maintained the integrity of architectural lines, ensuring that the property's lines were captured perfectly, devoid of any unappealing warping or bending.

An Ultra-Wide View

The expansive field of view offered by this lens is another aspect that's hard to overlook. The 15mm focal length allows for a broader scope, which worked wonders for capturing the full essence of the rooms in the property I was photographing. It made the spaces appear spacious and inviting, an essential aspect when trying to create attractive real estate imagery. Additionally, it saved me time as I didn’t have to stitch multiple images together to create a wider view.

A Sturdy Companion

The build quality of the Laowa 15mm f/2 Zero-D also deserves a mention. This lens is well-constructed and feels sturdy, yet isn't overly heavy, which makes it easy to work with during long shooting sessions. Its solid build gives me the confidence to use it in various conditions without worrying about potential damage.

Superb Light Gathering

The lens's f/2 aperture proved to be a key feature during the indoor shoots. It allowed for excellent light gathering, which helped me take well-exposed photos even in low-light interiors. This feature minimizes the need for additional lighting sources, making the shooting process more comfortable and less cluttered.

Sharp and Clear

Sharpness is a critical factor for any lens, and the Laowa 15mm f/2 Zero-D excels in this area. It delivers sharp and clear images across the frame, which is particularly essential when showcasing the fine details in architectural and interior photography.

Choosing The Right Lens

Understanding Your Lens Needs

Discuss the various types of photography (portraits, landscape, street, astrophotography, etc.) and the corresponding lens features that are important for each one. Talk about factors like the importance of wide apertures for low light photography, zoom capabilities for versatile shooting, and wide-angle lenses for capturing expansive landscapes or architectural details.

Deep Dive into Lens Features

Give a detailed explanation of terms like aperture, focal length, zoom, and image stabilization. Describe how these features affect image quality and the type of photos you can take. This section will help readers understand the specs in the comparison table better.

Choosing the Right Lens for Your Project

Provide guidance on how to select a lens based on the specific needs of a project. For example, if you're shooting a documentary-style short film, you might prioritize different features than if you're taking portrait photos.

Understanding Lens Pricing

Explore the factors that affect the price of lenses, such as build quality, aperture range, brand reputation, and additional features like image stabilization. This will help readers understand why some lenses are more expensive than others and make informed decisions about whether those features are worth the investment for their specific needs.

Exploring Compatibility

Discuss the importance of ensuring that a lens is compatible with the Canon R5's RF mount. Explain how the mount system works and the benefits of using native lenses versus third-party lenses with adapters.

Maintenance and Care

Provide tips on how to properly care for and maintain lenses. Discuss lens cleaning, the importance of lens caps, and storage options to keep lenses in top condition.