Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 Camera Lenses

Photographing with 50mm f/1.8 Lenses

Comparable to the human eye, the 50mm fixed focal length prime has long been the go-to portraiture lens for many photographers. It also offers the versatility to capture a vast range of different settings and situations, including low-light scenes. While 50mm lenses are available with different maximum apertures, the f/1.8 is one of the most utilized by amateur photographers or those purchasing their first 50mm lens.

What Is a Canon EF Lens?

Canon EF refers to the lens mount, with the acronym standing for electro-focus. It is a range of autofocus lenses that are standard for the brand's EOS family of SLR and DSLR cameras, with the option for the photographer to shoot in autofocus or manually adjust the focus ring to achieve the desired results.

• As EF lenses use a bayonet-style lens mount, all communication between the lens and the camera body is through electrical contacts.
• You can also mount EF lenses onto EF-S camera bodies, with these digital EOS cameras featuring a cropped image sensor (APS-C). However, photographers should keep in mind that EF-S lenses are not compatible with EF camera bodies.

What Are the Advantages of a 50mm f/1.8 Lens?

One of the main advantages of a 50mm f/1.8 lens is its lightweight and compact design, which makes it easy to carry when you're on the go and pull out when you want to photograph.

• The small size of the 50mm f/1.8 lens allows you to keep it close to your body when navigating crowds or small spaces, reducing the chance of having your camera stolen or damaged.
• You can apply the 50mm f/1.8 lens to a wide range of situations, including portraiture, still life photographs, and candid street scenes.
• The wide maximum aperture allows you to achieve a beautiful bokeh effect, with a small part or detail of the image in focus and the rest melting away behind.

What Is the Difference Between a 50mm f/1.4 and f/1.8 Lens?

While the 50mm f/1.8 has a relatively wide maximum aperture, the f/1.4 takes it that little bit further. The latter is also slightly sharper than its f/1.8 counterpart, which makes it favorable when you're shooting regularly in low-light conditions or wanting an even shallower depth of field.

• The f/1.8 lens also has a louder focusing motor when compared to the f/1.4, which some photographers find irritating.
• Despite its shortcomings, the 50mm f/1.8 is still the preferred choice for many amateur photographers purchasing their first prime lens.
• You can use both lenses with lens hoods to help reduce sun glare and flare in your images, as well as maintain contrast in the scene.

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