Canon RF 45mm f/1.2 STM Review: Fast Aperture Under $500

The Canon RF 45mm f/1.2 STM is a noteworthy lens for photographers seeking an affordable entry into ultra-fast prime territory on the RF mount system. At under $500, it dramatically undercuts most f/1.2 lenses on the market, making it particularly relevant for portrait, street, and low-light photographers who want shallow depth-of-field performance without a premium price tag. This review matters because affordable fast primes are rare, and understanding whether the optical and build quality trade-offs are acceptable helps photographers make informed purchasing decisions rather than overspending on professional glass they may not need.