For anyone who has some of the budget RF f1.8 primes, I think one of the key things is to shoot it at around f2.2-2.5 if you want to get better sharpness and contrast while still retaining a good amount of background separation. This is especially true when shooting against bright lights.

This is the content we're looking for, unbiased,, straight froward and honest. Thanks

As Katelyn pointed out - if you can't afford the fancy version of any lens...don't stress about it. You can certainly grow your business with a 1.8 or a 2.8 or even a kit lens, really. Don't go into debt buying gear. Work on being a better photographer, on how to create a sustainable business, how to appeal to your market, etc, etc, rather than the quick dopamine payoff of gear acquisition. I'm just entering year 3 as a wedding photographer, and while my business has grown quite a bit, I still pay cash for everything - well, I put it on my CC, but I pay it off in its entirety. ;) A nice rule to consider if you're not sure if you can afford a product is whether you can buy it twice; if you can't buy it twice, then it might be worth holding off so you're not riding the line all day, every day. Because you never know when something might suddenly break and you'll be glad you have some cash to help cover the unexpected costs of running a biz.

One other thought about the Nifty Fifty (RF 50mm f/1.8) is that it also solves the travel question you asked some weeks back. Not only is this MUCH less of an investment to worry about losing or dropping, but it's also MUCH lighter and more compact to carry around, but still gives you VASTLY better shots than you could take with your phone. The 35mm could also be a great solution, depending on your focal preference. Both are versatile and give great results and FANTASTIC value!

The RF glass from Canon is honestly so sharp and they have fantastic autofocus. I have the RF 35 f1.8 and the RF 85 F2 and paired with my R6, the results are often sharper than even some of their older EF L lenses. You really can't go wrong with RF glass, even on the budget end.

Ooooo... Can't get enough of these comparisons. They're all so fun to work with and The feel and images made by them are just 👏🏿👌

The 1.8 was a huge upgrade from my kit lenses... and I am by NO means a professional photographer, even though I would love to be some day... But I have noticed that the 1.8 doesn't quite give the crispness that I yearn for, but it has been an excellent addition for me, and has really helped me feel more confident! Thank you for this comparison. I really appreciated it!

i love how calm your voice and video are, thank you for this!

By far my favorite video explaining the difference between two different classes of lenses. Thank you!

So happy to listen to this video. I'm shooting with an R5 and the 50 mm 1.8 and have been so happy with the images I'm getting during family sessions. I can't afford the money for the 1.2 right now and my clients have been super happy with their images as well. This made my day!

I really respect the honesty, practicality and reasonableness of your advice. I think it's spot on!

This is the most fun I’ve had watching a review in a long time.

Ok, you are about the best I have listened to. You got me hooked with you clarifying in first 3 mins. One of the best comparisons so far in the Tube👏

Just discovered you and I loved this! New subscriber for sure thank you for describing your experiences so well and giving a realistic take on it ☺️

Excellent video! Love the your relatable approach to this review. Very helpful. Thanks!

L lenses do bring presence, I find it important because it makes my clients feel secure that my prices are justified just looking at the hardware, it might be shallow, but is very relevant

I'm glad I found your channel. Love the content!

I spent the majority of my first year and a half in business on my ef 50 1.8 and I love it! I just got the Sigma 28-70 2.8 this summer and am in heaven lol. I’m very happy with these two (I have a 70-300 4.0 that I hardly ever use unless personally for landscape) and will probably save for another year or two to get the 70-200 🥰

Thank you so much. You’re video was incredibly helpful to understand the value of lenses.

I have been struggling with this exact question! I am just starting to take my photography from hobbyist to professional and this information is exactly what I have been looking for! I LOVE your teaching style and will definitely be following you! I really look forward to taking your classes very soon.

You are spot on! Great and to the point and good practical test. For the first time I see a useful video without the feeling of being hit by a tech train!!! Keep going!

Thank you for your great reviews and real life comparisons. You deserve more subs! Have a great day.

I love your videos!! Thank you for this comparison!!❤

Thank you for this video! It's incredibly helpful to see pro-level results with higher- and lower-quality lenses. I'm shooting with a 50mm 1.8 on a Sony Alpha a7III and am locking in on the closest eye with single-point focus; I'm seeing similar results to what you demonstrated here, KJ--looks crisp, but that eye isn't ultra-sharp when I zoom in with Lightroom. I so appreciate this video and all you do to encourage budding photographers! ♥️ Loved the kid-toy sound effects, too!

Excellent points that can be applied to all choice making. Thank you

Thanks for that. It was really helpful. For me, another big decision factor besides the price is the weight. I hate lugging huge heavy lenses, so if something light and plastic works decently, that's a big plus.

Thank you indeed for superb honest review. It's extremely helpful.

Great comparison, thanks for this video!

Thanks KJ perfect timing!!

Very useful video. Nothing like real-world experiences. I'm convinced to try and make up with lightweight budget lenses, until it would make more sense to get serious ones. I'm just at the beginning of making a business now, so I subscribed to the channel

Thank you, this was very educational and exactly was I was looing for. I'm new to this channel, got to say your video, lights and audio is outstanding! what microphones are you using?

I love that you're so real. Thank you.

I’ve never seen you before but I am so impressed by this video!

Exactly what I needed to know. Thank you.

Very honest review. Thank you so much.

I really appreciate your reviews. I don’t connect with the specs other channels get into. This down to earth comparisons are so so helpful

that is a great video Katelyn! what microphone are you using? the sound is so crisp and clear!

Great video Katelyn appreciate your awesome videos. Your views are always appreciated

R5 has given my old EF 50 f1.2 a new lease of life. Fast autofocus and now nails focus 100% of the time. Less digitally crisp as the newer RF glass but still a beautifully sharp portrait lens.

Thank you for this comparison ,looking forward to many more

THANKS! I'm trying to get into photography and sometimes the pricing for some of these lenses just make me feel that I will need to turn away from this. I knew there was going to be a difference but as you said, it can get the job done. Thanks for your insights, I do appreciate professionals making things a bit easier for begginers. hoping to watch more videos like this!

New subscriber! I somehow assembled the beginner wedding photographer kit by pure instinct. Very happy accident finding your channel, I'm now feeling great about my recent lens purchases.

the video ive been waiting for ! I just got the 1.8 and love it !

Thank you! Great comparison!

An excellent 'practical' review. Thank you.

Great review, thank you!

Thank you so much for this review, you’re amazing!! May I ask what camera was used to film this? Cheers! Xoxox

I own both and I’m glad someone finally compared the two…clear plastic vs L-Series Glass

Omg haha I misread the title and thought you were putting the RF 1.2 up against the EF 1.2. I actually can’t wait to watch this video in full haha!

Great advice, thank you so much.

I have the 1.8 lenses right now and wow, seeing the difference is amazing!!! I’m so looking forward to getting new lenses! Thank you for giving your opinion! 👏🏼

very helpful video!

This review was awesome... a different view and just getting to the point. Thank you !!!1

Great video thanks!!

1st time viewer. I subbed b/c of your personality and how you presented the topic. Great work. Can't wait to see what that bell will bring 😏

I like how you light your video... so soft on your skin... and your hair looks great.... 😍😍😍😍😍😍 And your voice is sooooo calming... so soothing.... I am definitely subscribing. 👌

Really helpful video. Question about the shots that were a little off, was the camera on detect subject People? One shot or Servo?

Thanks for your content. I’ve subscribed to your channel and find your honest approach really helpful. I’m a part time wedding photographer based in the uk and have just purchased my first 50mm 1.2 (z lens). Very heavy but definitely seeing the difference between the 1.8 . Do you mind me asking how you get your clients? I don’t really advertise and do around 10-15 weddings a year. ❤

YES!! When I switched to the Canon R6 this past June, I bought this exact 'trifecta' of budget lenses: the 35mm, 50mm, and 85mm (all together for

Awesome comparison video! I've used the Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 with my R6 and the results are incredible-way better than with my DSLR. Probably because mirrorless cameras need no lens calibration, and focusing was perfect!

Great discussion of the pros and cons. And lovely kids too!

I’m kind of more blown away by the even exposure inside of your house to the outside. This video looks amazing. Great work on the whole thing!

I love this! I have been researching cameras under $200 to get started for better than my iPhone quality for KZfaq. This was super helpful!

2:32 It's not all metal. It has a poly-carbonate body, a metal mount, and some metal parts inside 3:40 The EF version has also a metal mount Nice video. ☺

Good review. I got the 1.8 because RF glass is so expensive and for $159, it almost seems free compared to that $2K+ glass. Having fun with it. Thanks. I really enjoy all your KZfaq vids. Please keep them coming.

I love the video! Not camera related, but I also love your jacket! Can you link it? ☺️

This video is very knowledgeable. 👏👏👏👏

😊When I bought my R5 I was pretty much tapped out. I bought the Control Ring EF-RF adapter for $199 and used my EF 50 f1.8 (note the are two versions of the EF 50mm f1.8. One has a plastic mount and the newer one has a metal mount which is the version I have). I slapped on my 50 and when shooting to learn all the functions of the R5. I was able to purchase the $3,000 dollar Canon RF 28-70 f2 on B&H credit card and its what I'm using now. 🤗 That said, I still love 🥰using my Nifty Fifty (aka 50mm f1.8) when I go out street shooting. The idea is, it's lighter weight and I get more candid shots because I don't have my huge 28-70 that makes people a bit nervous. The adapter makes the lens a bit longer which I kind of like because I can use the length to rest my camera on my hand. I also prefer the control ring near the back like film camera lenses did. I really wanted to just buy the RF version of the 50 but decided my current adapted EF works fantastic. Something that's a little interesting. 🧐My EF 50mm has a starting focusing point of 0.35m/1.1ft. Whereas my 28-70mm starts at 0.39m/1.28ft. Now that's splitting hairs but the Nifty Fifty is slightly ahead for starting focus point. I have a hand full of filters for my EF 50 which are very affordable. I have a basic UV filter not that I need UV as the sensor doesn't care about UV light like the old film days, but it makes it easier to clean. I don't get any dust or dirt on the inner sides of the lens. Just a simple wipe of the filter and it's spotless. Since the filter is cheap, I don't even use the lens cap because if you are like me, you keep losing them. I like to call my UV filter my Glass Lens Cap. It's always on and ready to go. I also have a CPL, and two ND fiters to go with it. I didn't buy the expensive Canon petal-type lens hood which I think petal-types are pointless. I went with JJC LH-68 cylindrical lens hood. It does a way better job because it blocks out more light from the sides. Even though it's plastic, there are metal parts for the button for removal from the lens. You can even reverse it to make it more compact for storage. Like my freaking front pocket! 🤓So how good is the Nifty Fifty? Yes its a little softer if you are pixel peeping. There is a slightly a little more color aberration but that's a easy fix in post if needed. My 28-70 also has the same issue just not as pronounced. So could I shoot an wedding with the Nifty Fifty? Absolutly! With the power of the new R series bodies the nifty fivty is a good choice for a first lens. Even when you start building your collection of L-series lenses, the 50mm f1.8 still has its uses. Even had I had a collection of L lenses, I still would run out and buy the Nifty Fifty. Its really that good! Light weight, fast, and affordable which makes it a no brainer. 🚫🧠 🤗

I've been considering the 50mm 1.8 for my R7, as I only have the 100-400mm 5.6-8, which has amazing reach. I think the crop factor of the smaller sensor takes it about an 80mm equivalent, which would suit for closer subjects and getting that nice bokeh. Love the videos!

I would also include the Rf 24mm and 16mm for a startup kit with the 35mm, 50mm and the 85mm. I also have the EF-S 10-18mm and the EF-S 24mm for my R7 and R10 APSC cameras. The only other lens I bought was the 100-400mm lens. I am debating on what Full Frame camera to buy from Canon. I love how you can save the settings for video and picture mode for the R7.

I shot my very first ever wedding with the 50mm 1.8 last weekend and it was a trooper. Thanks for this perspective! I’ve done several family portrait sessions with it and it’s fantastic as well. Saving up for the big boy lens LOL!

Thank you for this! I'm so glad I found you! I'm just starting out and trying to plan out what lenses to purchase (and in what order). I'm far from being a techie gal and love how real and genuine you are. I currently have an R8 with a 35mm 1.8 (I skipped the kit lens). Trying to figure out if I should go 50mm 1.8 or the 85mm f/2. I have a baby on the way and wanted a nice camera to take great family pics of the kiddos but to also work towards my own family photography business. With having the 35mm already, should I go for the 50 or the 85? Would love to hear your thoughts since you have kiddos of your own ❤️

This was amazing! Love your videos. Thank you so much! What are your thoughts on the beastly 70-200? I feel I was duped into buying the thing and now I’m worried I made the wrong choice. I’m wondering if I should sell it to purchase a 50mm prime.

Great video! Just stumbled on it after purchasing a 1.8. I wanted to grab it as a low dough 50 mm. I have more money invested in my sport lenses. I love your presentation you say what you’d prefer but also show strong points of the lesser lenses. Great job

For me, the nifty 50 is a great lens for the price and a lot of pros have made a lot of money shots with them over the years. The main benefit of the f1.2 is the edge to edge sharpness, where the f1.8 clarity drops off on the edges noticeably. Personally, I'd prefer to spend the money on the f1.2 85 or the f1.8 135, and take the nifty fifty over the f1.2.

Solid advice. I would like to see a similar comparison between an ef 1.2 and an Rf 1.2

Hi Katelyn, thank you for this very straight-to-the-point video about the RF 50 / 1.8 lens. I am planning on getting this lens very soon. I really appreciate the simplicity you put in sharing your personal and budget-wise thoughts from a professional point of you. It makes me want to ask you a question; based on your long experience as a photographer, where do you put your limit in terms of sacrifice between a very sharp image (pixel-wise) and a very nice photo (moment)? What I am trying to say in fact is how do you establish the limit between these two when it comes to sending your final work to the client. I know it might be very suggestive but as I am at the dawn of a professional career, I would like to know from your long experience what pleased more your clients (weddings and events) between a very sharp crispy pixel image and a very good image that captures the moment / the glance of special memory? I hope my question does sound stupid🤦‍♂. Thank you

Admittedly, I just bought the 1.8 50mm lens, its my second lens ever. My first lens was the kit one, the 24-105mm f4-7.5 zoom lens and I have to say, the 50mm is BLOWING ME AWAY! I'm so excited!

Yay! This was awesome. Please, please, please do the RF 35mm macro against the RF 100mm macro next!!! I would be so interested to see the pros/cons of the cheaper vs the expensive.

I just recently bought the RF 50 1.8 to use as my travel lens and I love how small and compact it is.

What lens are you filming this video with? Love the view!

Nice. Shot with the 1.8 for a hot minute last year, similar results. The size/weight is one of its advantages, especially one-handed eg street work etc.

Thanks for the honest review. I just got back into my camera stuff and purchased the RP full framed Canon. My subjects have all grown up, got married without grand kids for now. I have a 1/2 dozen or so EF lenses (non L) and two EF L lenses (17-40) and (70-200). I really don't want to jump right into expensive RF lenses at this point in my life, yet anyways. My subjects will be interior design like kitchens and baths (which I do for a living). Thinking the EF L 17-40 should work for now. What are your thoughts for that type of photography? Sometimes I just couldn't get back far enough with the C-sized sensors which is why I decided on the full framed RP' I will probably use the photos for website, etc. I also like to hike/back pack and the smallness of the RP was attractive to me (especially with that little RF50 you just demoed) I enjoy taking nice landscapes but maybe not at the expense of all that weight (and liability $$$) in the back country. Love to know your recommendations if you have the time. (Subscribed)

Great video Katelyn, how would you compare the sharpness of the 1.2 to the 28-70 f2 both at f2? Sounds like you're using the zoom to replace your lower than 85mm focal length workflow?

Oh my gosh! I bought this wonderful 1.8 refurbished for $79!! I just got it delivered and tried it out. It is amazing and if you are a hiker this is a no brainer. It is sooooo light! And it’s superb! Hiking is gonna be fun again. And I don’t have to lug a heavy lens around. I have the Canon R6 mkll and this combo is amazing! Best $79 I ever spent on photography.

I have L lenses and the cheaper RF lenses. I switch to the cheaper RF 50, 35, 24 for candid time. It really saves on the weight and fatigue for those few hours.. and less intimidating to guests.

Your conclusion is spot on

I had a wedding a weekend from August until October 1st and found the RF 50 1.2 for $500 less than retail on eBay and decided to purchase as sort of a long term rental and I’d sell it once the wedding season was over. It’s fall mini and senior session season and I still can’t let it go. It never leaves my camera. I often debate whether it’s worth it, as it’s sometimes too sharp for some of my clients, but I still love it.

I use the 1.2 for weddings and 1.8 for travel! Super easy to throw in my purse and grab some shots!

Great review.

This was right on time as I am currently making a decision on what RF lenses to invest in. Thank you Katelyn for great, applicable content 😊

Great video and it confirms my suspicions, Sure the sharpness isn't as fine when you zoom in but I bet the 50 1.8 cleans up nicely by stopping down just a tad. Looking forward to making amazing images with my new nifty 50 1.8.

I've watched different videos on lenses, and yours was recorded with some much love. Thank you for the comparison. I can't afford the $2000 lens, but I'll be gifting myself with the $200 one today as my Mother's Day gift.

Katelyn, I am about to switch / upgrade to a Canon RF camera. I currently have a T6s and use the 50mm f1.8 EF lens for portraits and astrophotography. It gets TINY pinpoint super sharp stars and it's fast enough to soak up tons of nebula gasses (especially with Ha filter inserted). My question for you is: Is the RF version just as good / comparable to the EF version? And should I just invest in the EF-RF adapter and use my old EF lens on my RF camera?

Thinking about beginners real estate with the R50. Would this lens be any use? And what wide angle lens would you suggest for the interior images? Thanks 🙏🏻

Yes, WOW! Very nice review.

Great content. Also bought your „Presets“. RF 50 1.8 is an ok lens, but the colors and bokeh (as you mentioned ) are the reasons I have sold it again and stick with my EF 50L which gives much nicer tones and colors and bokeh . With the R8 it is like a new lens, very accurate and fast enough

I really like the fact you are concerned about someone over extending themselves financially. The advice you gave is solid gold. My firm rule is I NEVER buy anything that isn't going to appreciate in value on time. A house would qualify a camera, a lens, a car? Absolutely not. Better to work harder, save up and then own it. As you so aptly pointed out, having the less expensive lens is not going to hurt one's ability to produce an acceptable product. And besides, we both know, that most clients could never, will never, be as picky as are we. They will naturally know that we are doing our best we can die them and love us for caring about them the way we do. Your daughter and nephew are incredibly cute! Incidentally.

I had the 50mm 1.8 first and it was ok for this price. But what i really hated was the dust inside the lens. I tried always to keep my equipment clean and dust free, but the 50 got after few weeks always dust inside. That alone is a big reason, why i use only L lenses in the future. But for beginner, is the cheaper 50mm great.

Thanks for a great comparison video. I know some photographers (and clients) would appreciate how the 50mm f/1.8 isn't "brutally" sharp for portraiture. The only other thing that I would like to see would be a low light scenario, like you would often be up against at a reception. Which would most likely be where the f/1.2 obviously would really shine. The fastest lens that I have is my EF 50mm f/1.8 STM & I really like it and it seems noticeably better than the previous version. It also looks it's best when closed a stop or more. My other primes are f/2.8 (24 & 40mm). I have all crop sensor cameras BTW. My favorite lens is my 24-70mm f/4 L which I use for 90% + of my photography. I shoot primarily video. I only occasionally shoot weddings / events but I know that the struggle is real during receptions that you can't light. Keep up the great work!