Did Canon Just Redefine The Budget Market For The RF Mount? Canon RF45mm f1.2 Review

Kevin Deal Photography December 22, 2025
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Kevin Deal Photography

@kevindeal

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Links to RAW files https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1adQ0PhLlrL_Pl57J2I2uzk--DLpRmiiI?usp=sharing **NOTE: Apparently this lens has a focus shift issue on Pre-2021 Canon mirrorless bodies. I did not test my original R5 on this review. So be aware that you may experience focusing issues on older bodies. Chapters 00:00 Intro 06:07 Specifications 07:05 Real World Test | Studio Portraits, Location Portraits, Videography 09:11 Street Photography 11:18 File Comparisons (RF45mm vs Other RF Lenses) 14:58 Cons 21:17 Pros 24:37 Who Should Buy and Pass on the RF45mm 1.2 & Final Thoughts In this episode of Kevin Deal Photography, we’re taking a deep dive into the Canon RF 45mm f/1.2 — one of the most intriguing lenses Canon has released for the RF mount to date. A full-frame f/1.2 lens for under $500 immediately raises some big questions. Who is this lens really for? Can it hold its own against Canon’s flagship red-ring glass? And is this Canon’s answer to photographers who want shallow depth of field without spending thousands? I purchased this lens with my own money and put it through real-world testing, including portrait work, street, and professional use cases. In this review, I’ll break down image quality, build, autofocus performance, size and weight, and how it actually performs when pushed in challenging lighting situations. We’ll also compare the RF 45mm f/1.2 directly against the Canon RF 50mm f/1.2 L, and for fun, I’ll throw in comparisons with the RF 28–70mm f/2 at 45mm to see how this budget prime stacks up against lenses that cost several times more. If you’re considering this lens as your first fast prime, your everyday travel lens, or a lightweight alternative to Canon’s flagship glass, this video will help you decide if the RF 45mm f/1.2 deserves a spot in your kit. As always, this is a 100% independent review with honest pros, cons, and real-world results — no fanboyism, just practical insight. Link to ES-73B Lens Hood https://amzn.to/45938kw My favorite 67mm filter (K&F 3 in 1) https://amzn.to/3KNe80a Follow Me for More Photography Content: 📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kevindealphoto/ 📷 Website: https://www.kevindealphotography.com/ DONATE TO BIG HERE! https://secure.qgiv.com/for/brookwoodingeorgetown Check out my Lightroom and Capture One presets here! https://www.kevindealphotography.com/presets

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