Canon Announces the Canon RF 45mm F1.2 STM

Canon’s announcement of the RF 45mm f/1.2 STM lens on November 6, 2025, alongside the EOS R6 Mark III, introduces a compelling option for enthusiast photographers seeking a fast, compact prime lens. Designed for full-frame Canon RF-mount cameras, this lens offers a 45mm focal length that delivers a natural perspective, slightly wider than a traditional 50mm, and equates to approximately 72mm on APS-C bodies like the EOS R7 or R50. Priced at an estimated $469.99, the RF 45mm f/1.2 STM combines affordability with a wide f/1.2 aperture, ideal for low-light shooting and creating striking shallow depth-of-field effects without the premium cost of Canon’s L-series optics.

The lens features a streamlined optical design with 9 elements in 7 groups, including one plastic molded (PMo) aspherical element to minimize aberrations while maintaining a compact form. Its aperture ranges from f/1.2 to f/16, controlled by 9 rounded diaphragm blades that produce smooth, circular bokeh. Autofocus is driven by a gear-type STM stepping motor with magnetic detection, achieving a minimum focus distance of 0.45m and a maximum magnification of 0.13x. While the lens lacks optical image stabilization, it relies on in-body stabilization when paired with compatible cameras. Digital lens optimizer corrections effectively address distortion and vignetting, which are noticeable at wider apertures.

Physically, the RF 45mm f/1.2 STM is lightweight at 346g, with a polycarbonate barrel, metal RF mount, and dimensions of 78mm in diameter by 75mm in length. It accepts 67mm filters and includes a customizable control ring for exposure adjustments. However, it lacks weather sealing and a fluorine coating on the front element, and the optional ES-73B lens hood is sold separately. Autofocus performance is swift and reliable on cameras like the EOS R6 Mark III, though the STM motor’s slight audible whine may be noticeable during video recording, making it better suited for stills. The fixed rear-lens focusing system reduces focus breathing and ensures consistent image quality across distances.

Optical performance, based on MTF charts, shows moderate center sharpness at f/1.2, peaking at f/2.8-f/5.6, with softer corners that improve when stopped down. Bokeh is smooth but exhibits some double edging in out-of-focus highlights. Chromatic aberration and coma are well-controlled for the price, though peripheral contrast is lower at f/1.2. Set to be available in December 2025.

Preorder

The lens can be preordered via Canon 45mm f/1.2 STM Lens

Press Release

Canon Unveils New EOS R6 Mark III Hybrid Powerhouse Camera and Canon Unveils New EOS R6 Mark III Hybrid Powerhouse Camera and Compact RF45mm F1.2 STM Lens

MELVILLE, N.Y., November 6, 2025 — Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today announced the launch of the EOS R6 Mark III full-frame mirrorless camera and the RF45mm F1.2 STM lens. The EOS R6 Mark III camera builds on Canon's renowned 5-series and 1-series legacy, delivering pro-level hybrid performance for advanced photographers, videographers, content creators, and hybrid enthusiasts shooting across portraits, events, wildlife, sports, and social media production. The RF45mm F1.2 STM lens introduces a compact, lightweight prime optic with outstanding f/1.2 performance, ideal for everyday shooting and creative expression.

Canon EOS R6 Mark III Camera Delivers Pro Performance in a Versatile Package

The EOS R6 Mark III camera combines high-resolution imaging, advanced video capabilities, and reliable design to empower hybrid creators.

Key features include:

• 32.5-megapixel full-frame sensor supporting up to 40fps electronic shutter shooting with 20 frames of pre-continuous shooting, and mechanical shutter/electronic first curtain at up to 12fps.
• CFexpress type B + SD card for improved hybrid shooting performance.
• Advanced video features including 7K 59.94p RAW Light recording, 4K 119.8p and Slow and Fast motion mode, and 7K 30p "Open Gate" video for increased vertical resolution, compositional flexibility, and post-production stabilization.
• Oversampled 4K 60p/30p recording (with 7K oversampling for 30p), Canon Log 2 with up to15 stops of dynamic range, waveform monitoring, Register People Priority and Focus Accel/Decel algorithms inspired by Cinema EOS C400 and C80 cameras for natural, professional autofocus behavior. As well as white balance and operational improvements when recording video.

This camera offers versatility for professionals and enthusiasts, from portrait, wedding and event shooters to birding and landscape photographers and emerging videographers transitioning from smartphones.

Canon RF45mm F1.2 STM Lens Designed to Redefine Compact f/1.2 Prime Performance

The RF45mm F1.2 STM is a 45mm standard prime lens designed for natural perspectives close to human vision, with a wider angle than traditional 50mm options. It's lightweight (approx. 346g) and compact build makes it easy to handle for portraits, snapshots, landscapes, and more-equivalent to approx. 72mm on APS-C bodies like the EOS R7 or R50 cameras.

Key features include:

• Wide f/1.2 aperture enabled by innovative PMo aspherical lenses and gear-type STM with magnetic detection, reducing size and weight compared to larger f/1.2 lenses
• Rich, three-dimensional bokeh with nine aperture blades for smooth, circular blur; digital lens optimizer corrects distortions for outstanding rendering
• Fixed rear-lens focusing system minimizes image quality shifts across distances; aperture range (f/1.2 to f/16) allows flexible depth control, faster shutters, and low-ISO shooting
• Enhanced compactness via fixed-length barrel and minimum focusing distance, delivering value and reliability for diverse applications

Availability

The Canon EOS R6 Mark III camera body only and kits with either the Canon RF24-105 F4 L IS USM, the RF24-105 F4-7.1 IS STM USM lens, or the Stop Motion Animation Firmware are expected to be available in November 2025, for an estimated retail price of $2,799.00, $4,049.00, $3,149.00 and $2,899.00 respectively*. The RF45mm F1.2 STM lens is expected to be available in December 2025, for an estimated retail price of $469.99*. For more information about Canon's latest innovations and products, please visit www.usa.canon.com.

* Specifications, availability and prices are subject to change without notice.

Specifications