FINALLY!!! 50 f1.2 L USM

[roanjohn]

http://www.pbase.com/roanjohn/image/65629160.jpg

:D :D :D :D I am so happy!!!

Ro1

[Sprout Crumble]

Unless its nothing more than a hacked website joke. Plus you won't be happy if the rumoured $1600 price is accurate. Damn ridiculous and the latest rip-off price after the shocking 85/1.2L II price-rise.

[SuzyView]

Hate to admit it, but technology costs. These babies take a lot of research and I think the L makes production more than just on the assembly line. For that quality, expect the price tag to be hefty. Sorry. You get what you pay for and some people will pay more. :)

[nitsch]

Please please please let this one be true!!! :D

[Raymate]

nothing on any global Canon sites yet :(

[Sprout Crumble]

Hate to admit it, but technology costs. These babies take a lot of research and I think the L makes production more than just on the assembly line. For that quality, expect the price tag to be hefty. Sorry. You get what you pay for and some people will pay more. :)
But;

1. This is an unambitious design. Its just a 50mm.
2. Its potential user base is the largest in the world
3. The last wave of 50/1.2's, for example Nikons, went for under $700
4. Its been anticipated and could be popular.
5. Its lifespan will be very long

So we have a lens that is simple to make, desired by the largest camera user-base on earth and which will likely remain on the market for over a decade. Yet it could be $1500+. Do you see my point? The lens fulfills all the criteria for lower price/high volume, yet again, Canon get greedy. Think about it seriously,....a 50/1.2 for $1500. They've just slashed sales by 90% over it being priced at $700 and the majority lose out again.

I hope these early price indicators are wrong. Interested to see what premium the IS fitted to the 70-200/4 will have. Nikon seem intent on adding VR at little extra cost to a growing number of its lenses. Wonder if Canon will follow suit. With in-body IS becoming more common, it won't pay to have a huge premium for its lens based solution.

[roanjohn]

I will buy this if it is less than 2000 USD. And it looks lighter than the 85 f1.2. The body is also not as bloated as the previous 50 f1.0. And the fact that the 50 f1.4 cost less than 400, I doubt they will price this one higher than 1300.........or even 1000. But you never know (I thought they would price the 5D at 2000 - and it ended up being 3200!!!).

Ro1

[In2Photos]

I will buy this if it is less than 2000 USD. And it looks lighter than the 85 f1.2. The body is also not as bloated as the previous 50 f1.0. And the fact that the 50 f1.4 cost less than 400, I doubt they will price this one higher than 1300.........or even 1000. But you never know (I thought they would price the 5D at 2000 - and it ended up being 3200!!!).

Ro1

The 85 1.8 goes for around the same price as the 50 1.4 and the 85 1.2 is above $2000.

[roanjohn]

The 85 1.8 goes for around the same price as the 50 1.4 and the 85 1.2 is above $2000.

But the 85 is 1.8...............and the 50 is 1.4. The difference is very slight from 1.4 to 1.2. Unless the 50 1.2 is SOOO sharp wide open.

Ro1

[Wilt]

I have always wondered about the appeal of 50mm f/1.2 and faster...
In history no one seems to have made a lens like that, which not only has speed but also performance wide open! So if the performance sucks wide open, then you have to resort to using slower f/stop for reasonable optical performance, so why bother with the faster aperture?! Furthermore, the DOF starts getting to be like macro distances...infinitesimal

[In2Photos]

But the 85 is 1.8...............and the 50 is 1.4. The difference is very slight from 1.4 to 1.2. Unless the 50 1.2 is SOOO sharp wide open.

Ro1

True. I guess with Canon's prices lately (17-55 IS, 85 1.2) I just don't see it likely that the 50 1.2 will be that "cheap" ($1300 or even $1000).

[Sprout Crumble]

Canons mentality is still firmly entrenched in its overwhelming market position. Nikon price to increase their share, Canon to make the most of the share they have. Until market forces build up to reduce Canons dominance, they'll feel no pressure to price to what things are worth to their users, but to maximise profits short term.

There was absolutely zero justification for the huge hike in the 85/1.2L mk2 but it happened regardless. The 50/1.2L will follow suit.

[coreypolis]

I will buy this if it is less than 2000 USD. And it looks lighter than the 85 f1.2. The body is also not as bloated as the previous 50 f1.0. And the fact that the 50 f1.4 cost less than 400, I doubt they will price this one higher than 1300.........or even 1000. But you never know (I thought they would price the 5D at 2000 - and it ended up being 3200!!!).

Ro1


i love posts like this.

1st, it is still a rumor

2nd, you have no idea of quality, speed etc

3rd, you're going to pay an extra 1200+ for 1/2 of a stop? shooting via candlelight lately

[roanjohn]

i love posts like this.

1st, it is still a rumor

2nd, you have no idea of quality, speed etc

3rd, you're going to pay an extra 1200+ for 1/2 of a stop? shooting via candlelight lately

:D

1st - Everytime a major announcement is to come from Canon, a Canon website somewhere always "ACCIDENTALY" leaks the would-be-announced products............so in this case, I am 99% sure that there will be a 50 f1.2. And if not............well, at least it was fun speculating what products will be introduced.

2nd - If Canon can make an 85 f1.2 that is crazy sharp wide open - I have no doubt that they can make a 50 that is just as sharp. I have faith...and faith is good.

3rd - just like you paid 2000+ more for your camera for its speed and build quality..........I will also pay 1200+ more for this lens for its speed and build quality (and add to it - image quality). :D

Ro1

[smirchfa]

i love posts like this.

1st, it is still a rumor

2nd, you have no idea of quality, speed etc

3rd, you're going to pay an extra 1200+ for 1/2 of a stop? shooting via candlelight lately

Yes, it is a rumor, but this is the rumors forum. If it is true, I will buy it and this is why: It's not just about 1/2 a stop. As much as I love my 1.4, it has very bad CA in certain circumstances at less than 2.8 and it is very soft at 2.0 or less. Not to mention that the AF is very poor in low light, and the build quality leaves a bit to be desired. So, if the new lens is up to L-prime standards, it will focus quickly, it will be acceptably sharp wide open and incredibly sharp at 1.4 - 1.6, CA will be controlled much better, and the thing will be built like a tank. Plus, a true USM that I don't have to worry about breaking every few years!

[S Taylor]

Well, if it comes to be, which it looks as if it may, then congrats to those who've been awaiting this lens. However, I'm just curious, but I don't really understand the fascination from the masses with 50mm. At least, not when Canon has a tack-sharp 35mm f/1.4. Granted, it's not 1.2.. but still.

Oh well, congrats again!

WT

[ijohnson]

This is such a great offering especially for someone that has a 1.6 crop camera. You would end up with basically a perfect portrait lens that most likely focuses a lot faster than the 85. I can only assume that it will be cheaper.

I still trying to find a place for my 50 1.4 on my full frame.

[Elan Remford]

Jeez. So many rumors, no one believes it when it's actually true. It IS official, and it IS on Canon's web site.

[CoolToolGuy]

No need to wait - you can buy one now on eBay:

http://cgi.ebay.com/Canon-50mm-f-1-2-L-FD-Lens_W0QQitemZ250020061317QQihZ015QQcategoryZ48552 QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

:lol: :lol: :lol: This is an FD version - so the new EF is not the first 50mm f1.2L Canon has ever sold! :lol: :lol: :lol:

Have Fun,

[Incredirebelz]

phew if it was priced at close to 1300 US i would be so kicking myself for picking up the 35L 4 weeks ago. Thanks canon.

hahah... i do think it will come down in price eventually into the 1200 ball park at most retail... i m definitely saving up for it.

[SoaringUSAEagle]

This will be in my collection soon...

[Carzee]

Here is the new 1.2 jeweL in high res:
http://www.usa.canon.com/templatedata/pressrelease/images/hiRes/20060824_hiRes_50f12.jpg

That is a big pic. Desktop Wallpaper of the Week Award!
And its such a dreamy lens. $1599

[roanjohn]

Here is the new 1.2 jeweL in high res:
http://www.usa.canon.com/templatedata/pressrelease/images/hiRes/20060824_hiRes_50f12.jpg

That is a big pic. Desktop Wallpaper of the Week Award!
And its such a dreamy lens. $1599

That is shot with a Nikon D2xs!!!! :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol:

Ro1

[René Damkot]

Why a 72mm filtersize? The Leica noctilux (50mm f/1.0) manages with a front element of about 52mm . . . Then again, maybe Canon wants to minimise the number of filtersizes...

[roanjohn]

Why a 72mm filtersize? The Leica noctilux (50mm f/1.0) manages with a front element of about 52mm . . . Then again, maybe Canon wants to minimise the number of filtersizes...

Probably to make room for AF and USM. And the L designation......:lol: :lol:

Ro1

[René Damkot]

Probably to make room for AF and USM.
That must be one powerfull motor.... Let's hope it shows in AF speed :lol:

[grego]

Why a 72mm filtersize? The Leica noctilux (50mm f/1.0) manages with a front element of about 52mm . . . Then again, maybe Canon wants to minimise the number of filtersizes...

Suprised its not the 77mm which is common in many of the big L lens.


Probably to make room for AF and USM. And the L designation......:lol: :lol:

Ro1

Dude, when did you get a 1DMKII? Awesome

[René Damkot]

Suprised its not the 77mm which is common in many of the big L lens.

No, not surprised about that: L primes (35, 50, 85, 135) have a 72mm filter thread. Modern L zooms (16-35; 17-40; 24-70; 70-200 f/2.8 ) have 77mm filter thread. (the older ones, like the 20-35 and 80-200 also have 72mm)

[grego]

Ha, shows how much I pay attention to filter size. :lol:

[iain1969]

that sure is a seductive looking lense.......

[radiohead]

Isn't it just....

[Carzee]

Signs of L lust there. I know, I go to meetings and everything.
12 Step stuff.
You're not really addicted until

A. even the kit lens looks good... as in when you're so hooked you "need" the kit for your dream shot - to line up the whole Canon range and photograph all the lenses just like the Canon Lens posters.

B. you find yourself trying to trade frequent flyer points for anything related to L glass.

C. you watch sports broadcasts, even women's sports, hoping they show the pro Canon shooters on the sidelines etc.

[radiohead]

:lol: :lol: :lol:

[fi20100]

Signs of L lust there. I know, I go to meetings and everything.
12 Step stuff.
You're not really addicted until

A. even the kit lens looks good... as in when you're so hooked you "need" the kit for your dream shot - to line up the whole Canon range and photograph all the lenses just like the Canon Lens posters.

B. you find yourself trying to trade frequent flyer points for anything related to L glass.

C. you watch sports broadcasts, even women's sports, hoping they show the pro Canon shooters on the sidelines etc.

Hahaha, good one ;)

[Double Negative]

I really want to like the 50mm f/1.2L, I really do. I have the FD version... :D

But on digital, the focal length just doesn't really do it for me. It's too long on 1.6x and even at 1.3x it's a touch long. I never use my nifty.

I picked up a 35mm f/1.4L, which on a 1.3x body is 45.5mm or pretty darn close to a standard 50mm. It's very sharp and very fast - but a little large because of the aperture. Much better all-around lens, IMO and $500 cheaper.

[MyDomainer]

Just talking out loud here...

I don't know why anyone would want to spend presumably $1,500 on a 50mm 1.2 when you can get the 1.4 now for less than $400. Seriously, will .02 decimals make any VISIBLE difference? It's like buying a Ferrari, for example, when you can get a Corvette or similar for at least 50% less.

When it comes to choosing 1.4 to 1.2, I guess it's a matter of taste and how deep your pockets can go! :-)

[Sprout Crumble]

Pity Canon have made people have to make that choice. At $900 max, a 50/1.2 would be a solid choice for a whole magnitude more people than the scandalous price its actually being released for.
In the UK, the cheapest price I've seen so far is an equivalent $2050. They should be bloody ashamed of themselves.

[Double Negative]

There's a simple reason why people would pay extra for the f/1.2L over the f/1.4 version. For one, it's weathersealed and has L build quality. If you demand a lot from your gear, that's often justifcation enough. Bonus is the shallower DoF and lower-light capability. Sometimes, yes - even a little bit helps.

Same reason people pay for the 85mm f/1.2L over the f/1.8...

[blackshadow]

It might make an awesome concert lens.

[radiohead]

Pity Canon have made people have to make that choice. At $900 max, a 50/1.2 would be a solid choice for a whole magnitude more people than the scandalous price its actually being released for.
In the UK, the cheapest price I've seen so far is an equivalent $2050. They should be bloody ashamed of themselves.

Bristol Cameras are taking pre-orders at £899 (c.$1640), so I'm expecting imports at around £750.

[hemuni]

Just talking out loud here...

I don't know why anyone would want to spend presumably $1,500 on a 50mm 1.2 when you can get the 1.4 now for less than $400. Seriously, will .02 decimals make any VISIBLE difference? It's like buying a Ferrari, for example, when you can get a Corvette or similar for at least 50% less.

When it comes to choosing 1.4 to 1.2, I guess it's a matter of taste and how deep your pockets can go! :-)
It only costs double to go first class ;)

[Double Negative]

I don't wanna wait any more... Is it out yet?! :)

[Double Negative]

I don't wanna wait any more... Is it out yet?! :)

So much for being available in November... What's up? Anyone know what the deal is?

[CoolToolGuy]

Here's what Rob Galbraith has to offer:

http://www.robgalbraith.com/bins/content_page.asp?cid=7-7900-8680

According to Rob's Web site it will be December.

Have Fun,

[Double Negative]

Ahh, good tidbit. Thanks! :)

[CoolToolGuy]

Just out of curiosity, I have been watching the status of this lens on the B&H Web site. Today, the status changed from "new-coming soon" to "out of stock."

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=4657&A=details&Q=&sku=457680&is=USA&addedTroughType=categoryNavigation

That usually means it came in and the watchers snapped up all they had. So it might be time to break the piggy bank and start rolling up the change. . .

Have Fun,

[Double Negative]

I would think that if B&H got some in stock, they'd send out to the people that pre-ordered first. There's a few here on POTN that have done just that, and there seems to be no indication that their orders are/will be fulfilled yet...

[bildeb0rg]

I have an old FD50 f1.2L that's as sharp as a blade wide open, and lets me get away with ridiculous shutter speeds in very low light. Netball, volleyball, sqash? Pass me "Percy" (doesn't everyone name their gear?) and I'll get the shot. I can see the appeal of this version.

[wsmith]

Sorry guys but who remembers that EF 50mm L 1.0 Canon made at the beginning of the EOS line that just put to shame their FD 50mm L 1.2. That 50mm L 1.0 was huge and very expensive, like some $2500 when the dollar was very high against the yen, meaning some $4 or 5000 today. At that time the FD 85mm L 1.2 (I bought) was sold around $1000 new.