Overview

The Canon FL 50mm f/3.5 Macro is a vintage lens known for excellent sharpness, especially at f/8 where it is tack sharp corner-to-corner. Wide open at f/3.5, center sharpness is good but corners are soft. It has a Tessar formula that gives a 3D look and pleasing bokeh at close distances. Build quality is high with metal construction and smooth focusing (Chase Hagen), though older copies may have stiffening grease. The lens is prone to flare when pointed at bright light sources. It achieves 1:2 magnification natively and requires an extension tube for 1:1. This lens suits macro enthusiasts who appreciate vintage character and are willing to work around its limitations.