One of the good fix lens brands is Canon. In the market, there are various Canon fix lenses, ranging from Canon mirrorless fix lenses to fix lenses for DSLR cameras. Canon fixed lens prices also vary depending on the specifications.
We will explain tips on choosing the best Canon fix lens according to your needs. You'll find Canon STM fix lenses, Canon 50mm or 35mm fix lenses, and so on.
We will also review suitable lenses for the Canon 1200D, Canon 600D, and Canon EOS M50. There are also cheap Canon fix lenses, happy reading!
What is a fixed lens?
A fixed lens or prime lens is a type of lens that has a single focal length. There are fixed lenses 24 mm, 35 mm, and so on. The smaller the focal length number, the greater the angle of view of the lens. And vice versa, the larger the focal length number, the smaller the angle of view obtained.
When using a fixed lens, you cannot zoom in on objects like a zoom or telephoto lens. On the other hand, when you shoot using a fixed lens, the resulting video will look sharper than a zoom lens. Most fixed lenses also have a fairly large aperture or diaphragm.
This characteristic certainly makes it easier for you to take photos in low light rooms. In addition, a large aperture will make the blurred effect stand out even more.
Canon fixed lens advantages
Canon is a camera brand that is quite popular in the world and started selling its products in Indonesia in 1976.
Until now, Canon continues to produce cameras with increasingly sophisticated technology. Canon also has a complete collection of lenses, ranging from prime, wide, tele, and macro lenses.
For fixed lenses themselves, Canon has many series with various focal lengths. The optical performance and technology of Canon's fixed lenses are also constantly being developed. Some Canon fix lenses are also equipped with image stabilization (IS) technology.
This makes it capable of producing clear, sharp, and stunning images. Canon also issued L Series lenses which are marked with a red ring on the lens body. This lens is a classy product from Canon for professional photographers.
How to choose a Canon fixed lens?
Here, we will explain the main points in choosing a Canon fix lens. Make sure you pay attention to important things, such as the type of sensor on the camera to the features offered.
Adjust to the type of camera used
There are two types of Canon cameras that you can currently find on the market, namely DSLR and mirrorless cameras. Each type of Canon camera is also equipped with a different sensor. Both APS-C and full-frame sensors have different lens mounts.
For Canon products themselves, each lens will be marked with a different serial code. For example, a fixed lens with the code EF.
This lens can only be attached to full-frame sensor Canon DSLR cameras. Even so, this lens can still be used on DSLR cameras with APS-C sensors. However, there will be a crop factor so that the captured photos will be smaller.
In addition, there are lenses with the EF-S code for DSLR cameras with APS-C sensors and EF-M codes for mirrorless cameras with APS-C sensors.
For full-frame sensor mirrorless camera lenses, the lens series will be marked with an RF code. It should also be understood that lenses with the EF-S code can only be used on DSLR cameras with APS-C sensors. Meanwhile, EF and EF-S lenses can be attached to mirrorless cameras using special adapters.
Choose by focal length
Focal length is the ability of the lens to see and record image objects. The size of the focal length on Canon lenses is written in millimeters (mm).
So that you get a clearer picture of the size of the focal length, consider the following points.
Focal length 14–35 mm, can capture a wider area
Fixed lenses with focal lengths of 24 mm to 35 mm have a similar function to wide lenses. However, this type of lens cannot zoom. You can use this type of fix lens to capture a wide object image at close range.
With a fairly wide image range, this lens is often used for journalistic photography needs. However, the use of this lens is not limited to just one genre of photography.
You can freely use it to take pictures of food, parties, landscapes or the streets.
Focal length 50 mm, higher blurred effect
The key to taking photos with bokeh backgrounds lies in the lens aperture number. Generally, Canon fix lenses with a focal length of 50 mm have a fairly large aperture.
There are lenses with apertures of f/1.8, f/1.4, or f/1.2. With this aperture, you will have no trouble using camera settings with a high shutter speed.
In addition, these characteristics will certainly make the photo appear to have a higher bokeh effect than other lenses.
Another advantage of using a 50 mm fixed lens is the ease when shooting in low light conditions. Simply using an ISO setting that is not too high, you can take good pictures of objects without blur.
Focal length 85–135 mm, ideal for portrait photography
Basically, any type of lens can be used for portrait photos. However, a photographer usually wants photos with a background that looks blurry or bokeh. For this reason, fixed lenses are ideal for use in portrait photography.
For portrait photos, you can choose a fixed lens with a long focal length, such as 85 mm or 135 mm. When you use an 85mm fix lens, you will be shooting at a distance of 3 to 5 meters.
This will certainly be useful when you are shooting models who feel uncomfortable being photographed up close. In addition, with a fairly far shooting distance, the model can be more free to express.
In addition to the 85 mm fix lens, you can also use a fixed lens with a 135 mm focal length. This type of lens will really help you in terms of perspective. For example, you can use it to make your face look more proportional. You can also use this lens to take close-up photos, such as the eyes or lips.
Pay attention to the aperture or diaphragm
Aperture or diaphragm is an opening that will affect the amount of light that enters the sensor. The aperture on a lens is indicated in the letter "f" unit, for example f/1.4, f/2.2, and others. The higher the number, the less light it can receive. And vice versa, the smaller the number, the more light the lens can receive.
For those of you who like the bokeh effect, choose a fixed lens with a small aperture number. A small aperture value will provide a narrow focus area so that it gives a blur effect on the background.
Pay attention to the features and technology
The last point you should pay attention to when you want to buy a Canon fixed lens is the features and technology. So that the lens you choose can be used optimally, see further explanation below!
USM or STM feature, give you autofocus
When you buy a Canon lens, you may be confused when you encounter a code that follows the aperture number. For example, the Canon EF14mm f/2.8L II USM and the Canon EF50mm f/1.8 STM. This code indicates the autofocus motor technology of the lens you are using.
USM or ultrasonic motor is an autofocus motor that is inside the lens. This technology has the advantage of faster and silent focus seeking. This type of lens is ideal for capturing fast-moving image objects.
Meanwhile, the STM or stepper motor is a quiet and smooth autofocus motor. In terms of function, this technology has similarities with USM. However, this type of lens does not have an advantage in the speed of locking the image. In addition, the price of this lens is also much more affordable than USM lenses.
Image stabilization feature, reduce blur shots
When shooting in a dark place, of course you will use a high ISO setting composition and a low shutter speed. Without the help of a tripod, the resulting photo can potentially become blurry. For that, installing a tripod and providing a little artificial light is very important.
You will find Canon cameras that are equipped with image stabilization (IS) technology. However, this feature won't have much effect if the lenses don't have the same technology.
For that, make sure the lens you are using has an image stabilization feature. With this technology, you will be greatly helped when recording video and taking pictures in low light conditions.
The 10 best Canon fix lens recommendations
Here, we will introduce ten Canon fix lens products that you can use as a reference. Please choose a product that suits your photography needs and the type of camera you are using.
1. Canon EF50mm f/1.8 STM
Are you looking for a Canon fix lens that is pocket-friendly? Consider buying this product. This lens is ideal for attaching to a Canon 1200D, Canon 600D, or full-frame camera, such as the Canon 6D. Although the price is much cheaper than other series, this lens has no less good quality.
Utilizing STM technology, this lens is ideal for shooting and video recording. The quality of the bokeh is also smooth and not kidding.
An aperture of f/1.8 will make the image background appear more blurry. Equipped with seven aperture blades, photo objects also become very sharp.
- Camera type: DSLR
- Sensor type: Full frame
- Focal length: 50 mm
- Aperture: f/1.8
- Image stabilization: No
- Autofocus motor: STM
- Filter size: 49 mm
- Weight: 0.16 kg
2. Canon EF-S24mm f/2.8 STM
The 24mm aperture makes it easy to capture wide and distant backgrounds. Combined with a minimum focus distance of 160 cm, the close-up photos are even more amazing. In addition, the focus ring on the front will help you adjust the focus of the shot.
Designed in such a way, the STM feature on this lens is claimed to work silently. This keeps the audio quality in the recording unchanged during the focusing process. In fact, the focus shift is claimed to be smooth. For those of you who often shift focus when recording videos, this product is the best partner.
- Camera type: DSLR
- Sensor type: APS-C
- Focal length: 24 mm
- Aperture: f/2.8
- Image stabilization: No
- Autofocus motor: STM
- Filter size: 52 mm
- Weight: 0.125 kg
3. Canon EF-M28mm f/3.5 Macro IS STM
To get bright macro photos, this lens is right for you. This product is a macro lens for APS-C sensor mirrorless cameras. Interestingly, there are built-in LED lights on the front. This lamp can be adjusted in brightness so that it allows you to get images with maximum exposure.
This lens has also been equipped with a hybrid IS image stabilization feature. This feature is certainly very helpful when shooting in a low-light room without the help of a tripod. Hybrid IS on this lens will also keep the captured image from blurring.
- Camera type: Mirrorless
- Sensor type: APS-C
- Focal length: 28 mm
- Aperture: f/3.5
- Image stabilization: Yes
- Autofocus motor: STM
- Filter size: 43 mm
- Weight: 0.13 kg
4. Canon RF50mm f/1.8 STM
The presence of this lens is a solution for portrait photographers who prioritize image quality. This lens is equipped with an aperture of f/1.8, making bokeh images even easier. In addition, this product is designed in such a way as to increase lens aberration.
As a result, both in dark and bright room conditions, the image still looks clear. In fact, when you zoom in on certain areas, the image doesn't look shattered. Interestingly, this product is not only lightweight, but also measures 6.9 cm x 4 cm. This makes it easier to carry for hunting photos to various locations.
- Camera type: Mirrorless
- Sensor type: Full frame
- Focal length: 50 mm
- Aperture: f/1.8
- Image stabilization: No
- Autofocus motor: STM
- Filter size: 43 mm
- Weight: 0.16 kg
5. Canon EF-S35mm f/2.8 Macro IS STM
Are you looking for a macro lens that can be used for daily activities? This Canon 35 mm fix lens is the choice. This lens is designed with a lightweight body. This of course will make it easier for you when shooting without the help of a tripod. The beautiful bokeh effect it produces is really impressive.
Another feature of this lens is the support for hybrid IS and STM technology for smoother focus searches. You can also use this lens as a standard lens as its focal length is equivalent to that of a 35mm film lens. That way, you can use it for almost any genre of photography.
- Camera type: DSLR
- Sensor type: APS-C
- Focal length: 35mm
- Aperture: f/2.8
- Image stabilization: Yes
- Autofocus motor: STM
- Filter size: 49 mm
- Weight: 0.19 kg
6. Canon EF-M22mm f/2.0 STM
This product is called a pancake lens because it is thinner than normal lenses, only 6 cm x 2.3 cm! Its weight is also very light, which is only 0.10 kg. This slim and light lens is the right choice for those of you who like the street photography genre.
With a focal length of 22 mm, you can take advantage of it for shooting a wide area. With a wide angle format, capture the amazing moments you encounter during your trip. This lens can also be an ideal match for the Canon EOS M50 mirrorless camera.
- Camera type: Mirrorless
- Sensor type: APS-C
- Focal length: 22 mm
- Aperture: f/2.0
- Image stabilization: No
- Autofocus motor: STM
- Filter size: 43 mm
- Weight: 0.10 kg
7. Canon EF50mm f/1.4 USM
USM technology on this lens is able to move the autofocus mechanism accurately. The f/1.4 aperture support also really helps you to be able to produce maximum bokeh images. With a larger aperture, the sensor can capture more light thereby preventing blur.
Imagine when you have to photograph a wedding at night, all the advantages of this lens will certainly help you take pictures. For those of you who have wedding photography and videography services, this lens is worth having as your main equipment.
- Camera type: DSLR
- Sensor type: Full frame
- Focal length: 50 mm
- Aperture: f/1.4
- Image stabilization: No
- Autofocus motor: USM
- Filter size: 58 mm
- Weight: 0.29 kg
8. Canon RF85mm f/1.2L USM DS
This lens is equipped with a Defocus Smoothing layer that makes the bokeh part look very smooth. It doesn't stop there, this lens also has Air Sphere Coating technology. This technology can reduce the effects of flare (smoke) and ghosting (shadows) in images.
Through the control ring on the lens, you can quickly adjust the camera's shutter speed, aperture, and ISO. To get bokeh effect photos that are very pleasing to the eye, this lens is worthy of your choice.
- Camera type: Mirrorless
- Sensor type: Full frame
- Focal length: 85 mm
- Aperture: f/1.2
- Image stabilization: No
- Autofocus motor: USM
- Filter size: 82 mm
- Weight: 1.19 kg
9. Canon EF135mm f/2L USM
If you need a fixed lens for shooting needs with the sport genre, this product can be the solution. This lens is equipped with two UD or ultra-low dispersion elements that make shots look sharper.
The existence of USM technology also allows image locking to work accurately, quickly, smoothly, and quietly. Capturing important moments in sporting events is no longer difficult. In addition, the combination of the two technologies will certainly provide stunning image results.
- Camera type: DSLR
- Sensor type: Full frame
- Focal length: 135 mm
- Aperture: f/2.0
- Image stabilization: No
- Autofocus motor: USM
- Filter size: 72 mm
- Weight: 0.75 kg
10. Canon EF14mm f/2.8L II USM
If you're looking for an ultra-wide lens without flare and ghosting for your landscape and architectural photography needs, this is the product for you. With a focal length of 14 mm, this lens has a diagonal angle of view of 114 degrees like a fisheye lens.
This lens is also equipped with two-element UD (ultra-low dispersion) optics that make images look sharper and distortion-free. Meanwhile, the optical system on this lens is coated with a Super Spectra Coating which makes color accuracy better. This coating is also designed to eliminate flare and ghosting when shooting.
- Camera type: DSLR
- Sensor type: Full frame
- Focal length: 14 mm
- Aperture: f/2.8
- Image stabilization: No
- Autofocus motor: USM
- Filter size: Not mentioned
- Weight: 0.645 kg
Conclusion
What do you think about the ten Canon fix lens recommendations that we have reviewed above? The photos produced by a photographer are very dependent on the camera and lens used.
On the other hand, each focal length of a fixed lens also has different characteristics. However, you can still produce good photos using only one lens. For that, continue to hone your shooting skills and experience.
