Overview

The Canon RF 45mm F1.2 STM is an affordable ($469) compact prime offering an f/1.2 aperture for strong background blur and low-light capability, ideal for portraits and general use. However, optical performance is mixed: center sharpness is okay at f/1.2 but corners are very soft, improving by f/2.8. Significant distortion and vignetting occur in raw, corrected in-camera. Build lacks weather sealing and a hood. STM autofocus is quiet but not fast. Best for budget-conscious photographers prioritizing aperture over absolute sharpness.