Canon Announces Budget-Friendly RF 45mm F/1.2 STM Prime Lens

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Darryl Lara is a portrait and concert photographer based in the Philippines. Since 2010, he has captured performances of some of the biggest local and international artists and built a strong presence in the concert scene. In 2022, he shifted to full-time writing and editing, where he now covers photography, technology, and gaming with the same passion for storytelling that defines his photography.

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By Darryl Lara

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Last updated 11/06/2025

Alongside the launch of the EOS R6 Mark III, Canon has unveiled the new RF 45mm F/1.2 STM, a compact and lightweight standard prime lens for full-frame mirrorless cameras. Designed as a more affordable alternative to the high-end RF 50mm f/1.4L VCM and RF 50mm f/1.2L USM, this lens offers impressive low-light performance and shallow depth of field at a fraction of the price.

Compact Design and Bright Aperture

Priced at just $469.99, the RF 45mm F/1.2 STM is aimed at photographers who want a fast, character-rich prime without the premium cost. The bright f/1.2 maximum aperture makes it ideal for shooting in low-light environments like concerts, events, or indoor portraits, while also delivering pleasing background separation for creative effects.

Canon describes the RF 45mm F/1.2 STM as a lens with “character,” implying that it delivers a softer, more organic rendering rather than a technically perfect, ultra-sharp look. This aesthetic quality should appeal to photographers who prefer a more expressive image style.

Optical Design and Build

The optical construction features nine elements in seven groups, including a single PMo aspherical element—a plastic-molded optic that helps reduce costs and size without overly compromising quality. Canon notes that image correction is handled largely in-camera, which is expected for lenses in this price category.

Despite its wide aperture, the lens remains remarkably compact at 75mm in length and lightweight at 346g. It also accepts 67mm filters, keeping accessory compatibility simple and affordable.

Autofocus and Handling

Autofocus is driven by a stepping motor (STM) with magnetic detection, offering smooth and accurate focusing for stills. However, Canon acknowledges that the STM system can be slightly noisier than the premium VCM autofocus motors found in its L-series lenses, which may be noticeable during video recording.

Pricing and Availability

The Canon RF 45mm F/1.2 STM will be available in December 2025 for $469.99 and is now open for pre-order from major retailers.