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Canon Normal EF 50mm f/1.4 USM Autofocus Lens USA

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Standard lens featuring superb quality and portability. Two high-refraction lens elements and new Gaussian optics eliminate astigmatism and suppress astigmatic difference. Crisp images with little flare are obtained even at the maximum aperture.

Performance
Focal Length 50 mm
Aperture Maximum: f/1.4
Minimum: f/22
Camera Mount Type Canon EF
Format Compatibility 35mm Film / Full-Frame Digital Sensor
Canon (APS-C)
Angle of View 46°
Minimum Focus Distance 1.5' (45 cm)
Magnification 0.15x
Maximum Reproduction Ratio 1:6.6
Groups/Elements 6/7
Diaphragm Blades 8
Features
Image Stabilization No
Autofocus Yes
Tripod Collar No
Physical
Filter Thread 58 mm
Dimensions (DxL) Approx. 2.9 x 2.0" (7.37 x 5.08 cm)
Weight 10.23 oz (290 g)

REVIEW SNAPSHOT®

by PowerReviews
CanonNormal EF 50mm f/1.4 USM Autofocus Lens
 
4.7

(based on 2282 reviews)

Ratings Distribution

  • 5 Stars

     

    (1658)

  • 4 Stars

     

    (555)

  • 3 Stars

     

    (46)

  • 2 Stars

     

    (14)

  • 1 Stars

     

    (9)

98%

of respondents would recommend this to a friend.

Pros

  • Lightweight (1528)
  • Consistent output (1173)
  • Fast / accurate auto-focus (1168)
  • Durable (889)
  • Easily interchangeable (777)

Cons

  • Slow focus (185)
  • Weak casing (68)
  • Blurry focus (35)
  • Heavy (33)
  • Difficult to clean (18)

Best Uses

  • Portraits (959)
  • Night photography (908)
  • Low light (833)
  • General purpose (655)
  • Weddings (560)
    • Reviewer Profile:
    • Photo enthusiast (686), Semi-pro photographer (555), Pro photographer (286), Casual photographer (281), Enthusiast (187)
    • Was this a gift?:
    • No (1332), Yes (101)

Most Liked Positive Review

 

Great indoor lens

I bought this lens for the holidays to take pictures of our family and guests at each of our gatherings. I have a 50D and I take mostly sport shots. Indoor, non-moving targets are...Read complete review

I bought this lens for the holidays to take pictures of our family and guests at each of our gatherings. I have a 50D and I take mostly sport shots. Indoor, non-moving targets are new to me. I have 3 kids that all play hockey and lacrosse so I have the 2.8 70-200 usm II and the 2.8 24-70 both L series and both incredible lenses. I didn't go for the 1.2L series because one of my friends is a professional wedding photographer and she knows people with both and found the difference slight. Please keep in mind when talking to my friend I was referring to non-professional use. It has done quite a nice job. I have been using it with a 580ex flash, so the pictures really do "pop". If you are in the market for a reliable, decent - indoor lens - I would recommend it. I have also taken some really nice sunset shots. The colors are very true. This lens is perfect for the price and the results. In this case - you may actually get a little more than you pay for...One thing - in low or filtered light, you better have a good flash, a tripod or a ridiculously steady hand - even at 1.4.

VS

Most Liked Negative Review

 

Not Sharp at f/1.4, Looks Great at f/2.0

I mainly use this lens for weddings & portraits. The first thing I noticed was the green & magenta bokeh fringing. Green behind the plane of focus, magenta in front. I dou...Read complete review

I mainly use this lens for weddings & portraits. The first thing I noticed was the green & magenta bokeh fringing. Green behind the plane of focus, magenta in front. I doubt that many clients would ever notice, but I certainly did. Also, this thing is NOT sharp at f/1.4. I had heard from several people that is was, but in my experience I have found that not to be true. If you stop it down to f/2.0 it is very sharp and tracks well using AI Servo. The focusing is decently fast unlike the 50mm f/1.8. If you can live without shooting your f/1.4 lens at f/1.4, then you will be pleased with this lens.

Reviewed by 2282 customers

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Displaying reviews 1-20

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5.0

Excellent Lens

By Strat

from Maryville, TN

About Me Photo Enthusiast

Verified Buyer

Pros

    Cons

      Best Uses

        Comments about Canon Normal EF 50mm f/1.4 USM Autofocus Lens:

        This is lens is awesome, it is one of my favorite lens. Great DOF and great for low light settings.

        Share this review

         
        5.0

        GREAT Lens

        By EndlessRed Productions

        from Sonora, CA

        About Me Semi-pro Photographer

        Pros

        • Easy To Use
        • Lightweight
        • Versatile

        Cons

          Best Uses

          • Portraits

          Comments about Canon Normal EF 50mm f/1.4 USM Autofocus Lens:

          A fast, compact lens. Easy to handle and use, with beautiful results. Takes in lighting well and is easy to learn.

          • Was this a gift?:
          • No

          Share this review

           
          4.0

          Great Lens!! Dont be afraid to buy it

          By Jason

          from Upland, CA

          About Me Photo Enthusiast

          Verified Buyer

          Pros

          • Lightweight
          • Powerful Output

          Cons

            Best Uses

              Comments about Canon Normal EF 50mm f/1.4 USM Autofocus Lens:

              I have been back and forth between the Sigma and this lens. Mainly lookin at the focus issues.. It's really good on my 5DII. No focus issues at all. Of course its a 1.4 so shooting with it will yield a few photos that are a little off (if you are) but other than that its really nice and clear. It's build is nice too (not an L but look at the price) One thing I dont like is that it still feels like the focus motor is still engaged during manual focus..not sure if this is standard.. all in all lets see how it lasts but I really like shooting with it!! I tested with the 35 prior and it was too wide

              • Was this a gift?:
              • No

              Share this review

               
              5.0

              Lots of FUN!

              By Mainer Kate

              from Windham Maine

              About Me Semi-pro Photographer

              Verified Buyer

              Pros

                Cons

                  Best Uses

                  • General Use
                  • Portraits

                  Comments about Canon Normal EF 50mm f/1.4 USM Autofocus Lens:

                  I find myself using this lens all the time, even when I probably shouldn't be. It's an addiction I'm looking to remedy with a new lens but which one is next? Seriously though, I am having a lot of fun and creating some beautiful work with it. It has a little learning curve, I don't recommend using auto-focus with it but this lens is well worth the price.

                  • Was this a gift?:
                  • No

                  Share this review

                   
                  5.0

                  Great Prime Lens

                  By NJ Photog

                  from NJ

                  About Me Photo Enthusiast

                  Verified Buyer

                  Pros

                  • Consistent Output
                  • Crystal clear
                  • Powerful Output
                  • Versatile

                  Cons

                  • No image stabilization

                  Best Uses

                  • Portraits

                  Comments about Canon Normal EF 50mm f/1.4 USM Autofocus Lens:

                  This is my first prime lens and I love it. Portraits shot come out phenomenal. The images are crystal clear. The lens feels expensive and I am very happy I opted for the 1.4 as I get great Bokeh! This is a must have lens! I only wish it did have image stabilization. Otherwise what a great Lens!

                  • Was this a gift?:
                  • No

                  Share this review

                   
                  4.0

                  A great overall lens

                  By Oh Snap Photography

                  from Boston, MA

                  About Me Pro Photographer

                  Verified Buyer

                  Pros

                  • Easy To Use
                  • Lightweight
                  • Versatile

                  Cons

                    Best Uses

                    • Portraits

                    Comments about Canon Normal EF 50mm f/1.4 USM Autofocus Lens:

                    As a wedding and portrait photographer a lens with low light capabilities is important to me. So far since purchasing this lens it has been on my camera non-stop! Its one of my favorites for weddings and other events.

                    • Was this a gift?:
                    • No

                    Share this review

                     
                    5.0

                    Very sharp and fast

                    By DSPhoto

                    from Phoenix

                    About Me Pro Photographer

                    Verified Buyer

                    Pros

                    • Consistent Output
                    • Easy To Use

                    Cons

                      Best Uses

                      • General Use
                      • Video

                      Comments about Canon Normal EF 50mm f/1.4 USM Autofocus Lens:

                      I needed a light prime for video and this works great.

                      • Was this a gift?:
                      • No

                      Share this review

                       
                      5.0

                      Good Quality Without Breaking the Bank.

                      By Portrait Polly

                      from Salt Lake City, Utah

                      About Me Semi-pro Photographer

                      Verified Buyer

                      Pros

                        Cons

                          Best Uses

                            Comments about Canon Normal EF 50mm f/1.4 USM Autofocus Lens:

                            I love this lens. It is a great lens for the price if you are looking to shoot at a bigger aperture, but don't want to spend big money on an L series lens. This lens as an alternative to the cheaper 50mm 1.8, or the expensive 50mm 1.2, is perfect. The focus is fast and the picture is clear. I highly recommend it.

                            Share this review

                             
                            5.0

                            Great Lens!

                            By Ivan_K

                            from ON, Canada

                            Verified Buyer

                            Pros

                              Cons

                                Best Uses

                                • Portraits

                                Comments about Canon Normal EF 50mm f/1.4 USM Autofocus Lens:

                                I use this lens for video. Good for portraits. Images are very sharp, excellent in low light conditions.
                                B&H provides great service and delivered quickly.
                                Thank you Guys!

                                Share this review

                                 
                                5.0

                                Great Low Light Lens

                                By PhotoGirl

                                from Orange County, CA

                                About Me Semi-pro Photographer

                                Verified Buyer

                                Pros

                                • Consistent Output
                                • Easy To Use

                                Cons

                                • No IS

                                Best Uses

                                • Low Light
                                • Night Photography

                                Comments about Canon Normal EF 50mm f/1.4 USM Autofocus Lens:

                                Being able to go down to 1.4 is a great benefit in low light situations such as weddings.

                                • Was this a gift?:
                                • Yes

                                Share this review

                                 
                                5.0

                                True to form

                                By Milehi Bones

                                from Colorado

                                About Me Photo Enthusiast

                                Verified Buyer

                                Pros

                                • Consistent Output
                                • Easy To Use
                                • Lightweight
                                • Powerful Output

                                Cons

                                  Best Uses

                                  • General Use
                                  • Night Photography
                                  • Portraits

                                  Comments about Canon Normal EF 50mm f/1.4 USM Autofocus Lens:

                                  Very pleased with this lens, first one had a imperfection on coating and was quickly replaced by B&H, hassle free exchange!

                                  • Was this a gift?:
                                  • No

                                  Share this review

                                   
                                  4.0

                                  Great upgrade from 50mm 1.8

                                  By wience

                                  from saratoga, ny

                                  About Me Photo Enthusiast

                                  Verified Buyer

                                  Pros

                                  • Durable
                                  • Easy To Use
                                  • Fast Recycling

                                  Cons

                                    Best Uses

                                    • General Use
                                    • Night Photography
                                    • Portraits

                                    Comments about Canon Normal EF 50mm f/1.4 USM Autofocus Lens:

                                    Focus is faster. bokeh is smoother. To my mind, this is worth 4x more than the Canon 50mm 1.8. Great for video, walkaround shooting. Focus ring has a good feel to it. Solid build.

                                    • Was this a gift?:
                                    • No

                                    Share this review

                                     
                                    5.0

                                    great lens for portrait shot

                                    By Islet

                                    from Arlington, VA

                                    About Me Semi-pro Photographer

                                    Verified Buyer

                                    Pros

                                    • Durable
                                    • Easy To Use
                                    • Fast Recycling
                                    • Lightweight

                                    Cons

                                    • Weak Output

                                    Best Uses

                                    • General Use
                                    • Portraits

                                    Comments about Canon Normal EF 50mm f/1.4 USM Autofocus Lens:

                                    Good for event shot and portrait shot

                                    • Was this a gift?:
                                    • No

                                    Share this review

                                     
                                    5.0

                                    Love this lens!

                                    By brand new day

                                    from ny

                                    About Me Photo Enthusiast

                                    Verified Buyer

                                    Pros

                                    • Consistent Output
                                    • Durable
                                    • Easy To Use

                                    Cons

                                      Best Uses

                                      • General Use
                                      • Photojournalism
                                      • Portraits

                                      Comments about Canon Normal EF 50mm f/1.4 USM Autofocus Lens:

                                      I purchased the Canon EF 50 1.8 lens a few months ago and enjoyed using a prime 50 so much that decided to upgrade to the 1.4, Reasons for upgrade were nicer bokeh and lens a bit faster. I love 1.4! Images are very sharp, excellent in low light conditions. Lens is obviously sturdier build than the 1.8. AF is fast.

                                      • Was this a gift?:
                                      • No

                                      Share this review

                                       
                                      4.0

                                      Better Than Expected

                                      By Laura

                                      from Texas

                                      About Me Photo Enthusiast

                                      Verified Buyer

                                      Pros

                                      • Lightweight

                                      Cons

                                        Best Uses

                                        • General Use
                                        • Portraits

                                        Comments about Canon Normal EF 50mm f/1.4 USM Autofocus Lens:

                                        I sold my 50 1.2 and got this instead. I loved the 1.2 and had it over a year, but I mostly shoot pics of my kids and running around with a reflector in one hand and a camera in the other - well, it was a bit too heavy for me. The 1.4 is perfect for me! Very lightweight, sharp (at 2.0 and higher), and focus is quick. The 1.2 image quality can't be beat, but the 1.4 is very good, and with Photoshop you can easily adjust saturation and contrast - so no problem :-)

                                        • Was this a gift?:
                                        • No

                                        Share this review

                                         
                                        5.0

                                        Unbelievable Lens...produces Great pics

                                        By BradP

                                        from Dallas, Tx

                                        About Me Casual Photographer

                                        Verified Buyer

                                        Pros

                                        • Consistent Output
                                        • Durable
                                        • Easy To Use
                                        • Lightweight

                                        Cons

                                          Best Uses

                                          • General Use
                                          • Night Photography
                                          • Portraits

                                          Comments about Canon Normal EF 50mm f/1.4 USM Autofocus Lens:

                                          Auto focus does extremely well. Produces beautiful pictures wide open at f/1.4
                                          Portrait and other venues, lens adapts well and works great.

                                          • Was this a gift?:
                                          • No

                                          Share this review

                                           
                                          4.0

                                          Sharp and bright

                                          By J Somers

                                          from Jackson, NJ

                                          About Me Pro Photographer

                                          Verified Buyer

                                          Pros

                                            Cons

                                              Best Uses

                                              • General Use
                                              • Night Photography
                                              • Photojournalism
                                              • Portraits

                                              Comments about Canon Normal EF 50mm f/1.4 USM Autofocus Lens:

                                              At F1.4 it's not great (to be expected), at F2.8 much better and F4 and above it's very nice. It's built significantly better than the 50mm F1.8 II and has become a very well regarded lens in my standard equipment kit.

                                              • Was this a gift?:
                                              • No

                                              Share this review

                                               
                                              5.0

                                              Awesome

                                              By Kevin

                                              from Louisville, CO

                                              About Me Photo Enthusiast

                                              Verified Buyer

                                              Pros

                                              • Consistent Output
                                              • Durable
                                              • Easy To Use
                                              • Lightweight
                                              • Powerful Output
                                              • Versatile

                                              Cons

                                                Best Uses

                                                • Boudoir
                                                • Portraits

                                                Comments about Canon Normal EF 50mm f/1.4 USM Autofocus Lens:

                                                This lens is sharp, fast, and provides beautifully shallow depth of field.

                                                • Was this a gift?:
                                                • No

                                                Share this review

                                                 
                                                5.0

                                                perfect

                                                By anna

                                                from sp/ brasil

                                                About Me Semi-pro Photographer

                                                Verified Buyer

                                                Pros

                                                • Durable
                                                • Easy To Use
                                                • Lightweight
                                                • Powerful Output

                                                Cons

                                                  Best Uses

                                                  • General Use
                                                  • Night Photography
                                                  • Portraits
                                                  • Product photography

                                                  Comments about Canon Normal EF 50mm f/1.4 USM Autofocus Lens:

                                                  very light

                                                  • Was this a gift?:
                                                  • No

                                                  Share this review

                                                   
                                                  5.0

                                                  Great lens

                                                  By Photochick814

                                                  from Connecticut

                                                  About Me Semi-pro Photographer

                                                  Verified Buyer

                                                  Pros

                                                  • Consistent Output
                                                  • Easy To Use
                                                  • Lightweight

                                                  Cons

                                                    Best Uses

                                                    • General Use
                                                    • Night Photography
                                                    • Photojournalism
                                                    • Portraits

                                                    Comments about Canon Normal EF 50mm f/1.4 USM Autofocus Lens:

                                                    I've been looking for a mid range lens for a while and this one has been working great. My primary lenses have been a 28mm and a 70-200 f/2.8, but this one works great for times that I don't need too wide or too far away. I've been very happy with it so far.

                                                    • Was this a gift?:
                                                    • No

                                                    Share this review

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