Canon RF 135mm F1.8 L IS USM

Canon RF

Review

The Canon RF 135mm F1.8 L IS USM is an exceptional lens that has quickly carved out a niche for itself among portrait photographers and those who appreciate a combination of speed and optical excellence. Designed specifically for Canon's RF mount, this lens offers a unique blend of sharpness, beautiful bokeh, and effective image stabilization that makes it a compelling choice for various photography styles.

Build Quality and Design

This lens exhibits the exemplary build quality that one expects from Canon's L-series lineup. Its robust construction is combined with weather sealing, allowing photographers to work in a variety of conditions without worrying about dust or moisture entering the lens. Weighing in at a manageable 1.4 kg (approximately 3.2 lbs), it strikes a balance between sturdiness and portability, making it easy to handle for extended shoots. The adjustable lens hood further enhances usability, preventing lens flare and protecting the front element.

Optical Performance

The optical performance of the RF 135mm F1.8 is nothing short of stellar. With a fast maximum aperture of F1.8, this lens excels in low-light situations, delivering crisp images with beautiful out-of-focus areas, or bokeh. Chromatic aberration and distortion are well-controlled, which is a significant plus for photographers looking to maintain image quality across different settings. The lens also features a specialized lens element that helps enhance sharpness and contrast, particularly in backlit scenarios.

Autofocus System

Equipped with Canon's Dual Nano USM focusing technology, the autofocus system is incredibly fast and silent, making it suitable for both still photography and videography. The smooth and rapid focus transition is especially beneficial for portrait photographers who often need to track moving subjects. Additionally, the ability to customize focus settings directly through the lens enhances the overall user experience, allowing for quick adjustments on the fly.

Image Stabilization

One of the standout features of the RF 135mm F1.8 is its five-stop optical image stabilization. This is particularly useful for handheld shooting, as it allows for sharper images at slower shutter speeds, enabling photographers to capture high-quality images in challenging lighting conditions. This stabilization feature greatly reduces the chances of motion blur, which is a common concern in longer focal lengths.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exceptional optical performance with sharpness and bokeh.
• Fast F1.8 aperture ideal for low-light conditions.
• Weather-sealed, robust build quality.
• Fast and quiet autofocus system.
• Effective five-stop image stabilization.

Cons

• The lens can feel a bit heavy for extended handheld usage.
• Its price point may be a barrier for some photographers.
• Limited zoom range—it’s strictly a prime lens, which may not suit every shooting scenario.

Verdict

The Canon RF 135mm F1.8 L IS USM is a fantastic lens that caters to both professional and amateur photographers who prioritize image quality, versatility, and the ability to work in various lighting conditions. While its weight and price might deter some, the performance and features it offers make it well worth the investment for serious portrait and event photographers looking to elevate their craft. Overall, it stands as a testament to Canon's commitment to creating top-tier optics for the RF mount.