As a photography enthusiast and avid macro shooter, I’m always on the hunt for equipment that can push the boundaries of what I capture. Enter the Canon RF 100mm F2.8 L Macro IS USM Lens, a lens that has completely transformed how I approach close-up photography. From its innovative features to its exceptional image quality, this lens has quickly become a staple in my camera bag. I’ve owned and used this lens for several months now as of this posting.
After months of using it regularly for macro, portrait, and even some experimental creative photography, I can confidently say that the Canon RF 100mm F2.8 L Macro is not just a lens—it’s an artistic tool. In this review, I’ll dive into my experience, the lens’s standout features, its pros and cons, and why it stands tall among other macro lenses on the market.
Unboxing and First Impressions
The first thing you notice about the RF 100mm F2.8 L Macro IS USM is its premium build quality. Canon’s L-series lenses are known for their durability and professional-grade construction, and this one doesn’t disappoint. The lens feels solid yet surprisingly lightweight for a macro lens of its caliber, weighing approximately 730g (1.6 lbs).
It’s also weather-sealed, which gives me confidence when shooting in outdoor environments, whether I’m chasing dew-covered flowers at dawn or capturing insects in humid conditions. The sleek black design with Canon’s signature red ring instantly signals that you’re holding a high-performance piece of equipment.
Key Specifications
Here’s a breakdown of the Canon RF 100mm F2.8 L Macro IS USM Lens’s specifications:
- Focal Length: 100mm
- Maximum Aperture: f/2.8
- Lens Construction: 17 elements in 13 groups
- Minimum Focusing Distance: 0.26m (10.2 inches)
- Maximum Magnification: 1.4x (the first in its class for autofocus macro lenses)
- Image Stabilization: Up to 8 stops of coordinated IS (when paired with a compatible Canon R-series camera)
- Autofocus System: Dual Nano USM motors for fast, silent, and accurate focus
- Control Ring: Customizable for settings like aperture, ISO, or shutter speed
- SA Control Ring: New Spherical Aberration Control for bokeh customization
- Filter Size: 67mm
- Dimensions: 81.5mm x 148mm (3.2 in x 5.8 in)
- Weight: 730g (1.6 lbs)
What Makes This Lens Special?
1. Incredible 1.4x Magnification
Most macro lenses top out at 1:1 (or 1.0x) magnification, but the RF 100mm F2.8 goes beyond with 1.4x magnification, making it the first autofocus macro lens to offer this. This extra magnification is a game-changer, especially for capturing the intricate details of tiny subjects like insects, textures, and water droplets.
During one of my shoots, I captured a close-up of a butterfly’s wing, and the level of detail was nothing short of astonishing. The additional magnification gave me the flexibility to fill the frame with details I would’ve otherwise missed.
2. Spherical Aberration (SA) Control
The lens features an innovative SA Control Ring that allows you to adjust the bokeh and softness of the image. Turning the ring shifts the look of the out-of-focus areas, giving you control over how dreamy or sharp the bokeh appears.
I found this feature especially useful for portraits and creative photography. With a slight tweak of the SA Control, I achieved soft, ethereal backgrounds that added an artistic touch to my shots. For macro work, this can also enhance the aesthetic of the background, making the subject pop even more.
3. Advanced Image Stabilization
The RF 100mm F2.8 features built-in Hybrid Image Stabilization that compensates for both angular and shift movement. When paired with a Canon R-series camera with IBIS (In-Body Image Stabilization), it provides up to 8 stops of stabilization.
This stabilization has been a lifesaver during handheld macro photography sessions. Shooting at 1.4x magnification often amplifies even the smallest camera shake, but the stabilization system keeps images sharp without the need for a tripod.
4. Dual Nano USM Motors
The autofocus system is powered by Dual Nano USM motors, ensuring fast, smooth, and silent focusing. This is especially important when shooting macro subjects like insects, where even the slightest noise can cause them to flee. The focus is precise, allowing me to lock onto tiny details with ease.
How I Use the Canon RF 100mm F2.8 L Macro
Macro Photography
This lens shines in macro photography, offering unparalleled sharpness and detail. I’ve used it to capture close-ups of insects, flowers, and textures, and every image is rich with clarity and vibrant color. The extra magnification is a bonus for those who love pushing creative boundaries.
Portrait Photography
With its f/2.8 aperture, the lens doubles as a fantastic portrait lens. The creamy bokeh and ability to tweak the background softness with the SA Control make it a versatile tool for capturing people and pets.
Creative Projects
The RF 100mm has inspired me to experiment more. I’ve used it for abstract photography, playing with textures and reflections, and it has delivered consistently stunning results.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Exceptional Image Quality: Sharpness, color rendition, and contrast are top-notch.
- 1.4x Magnification: A standout feature that elevates macro photography.
- SA Control Ring: Adds creative flexibility for bokeh customization.
- Superb Build Quality: Weather-sealing and premium materials ensure durability.
- Advanced Stabilization: Makes handheld shooting feasible, even at high magnifications.
- Dual Nano USM Motors: Fast, silent autofocus for both macro and portrait work.
Cons
- Price: At around $1,399 (as of this writing), it’s an investment.
- Weight: At 730g, it’s not the lightest lens, though the performance justifies the heft.
- Learning Curve for SA Control: While innovative, the SA Control Ring requires practice to master.
Why This Lens Stands Out
The Canon RF 100mm F2.8 L Macro IS USM Lens is not just another macro lens—it’s a benchmark for what modern lens design can achieve. Its unique combination of features, from the 1.4x magnification to the SA Control, sets it apart from competitors. The exceptional image quality and build make it a valuable tool for professionals, enthusiasts, and creative photographers alike.
Canon: A Legacy of Excellence
Canon’s reputation for producing high-quality imaging equipment is well-earned. Founded in 1937, Canon has consistently been at the forefront of camera and lens innovation. The company’s L-series lenses, like the RF 100mm, represent the pinnacle of optical engineering, offering reliability, performance, and unmatched craftsmanship.
Canon’s dedication to creating tools that inspire creativity is evident in every detail of the RF 100mm F2.8 L Macro. From its robust construction to its cutting-edge features, this lens is a testament to Canon’s commitment to helping photographers bring their visions to life.
Final Thoughts
The Canon RF 100mm F2.8 L Macro IS USM Lens is a masterpiece of optical engineering that delivers on all fronts. Whether you’re a professional macro photographer, a portrait artist, or an enthusiast looking to explore creative possibilities, this lens is worth every penny. Its innovative features, exceptional performance, and versatility make it one of the best lenses available in its class.
If you’re ready to elevate your photography and invest in a lens that will inspire you for years to come, the RF 100mm F2.8 L Macro is an outstanding choice.
Rating: 4.8/5
Canon has once again raised the bar, offering a lens that embodies precision, innovation, and artistic potential. Whether for macro or beyond, this lens is a joy to use and a true game-changer in the world of photography.