If you’d like to watch the video where I review this lens, CLICK HERE
If you’re into macro photography or product work, a high-quality macro lens is essential. Today, I’m diving into Canon’s top-of-the-line offering: the Canon RF 100mm f/2.8 L Macro Lens. I’ll also share three practical tips to help you get stunning results with this lens.
Why the Canon RF 100mm?
While I’ve reviewed plenty of non-L lenses, this video focuses on Canon’s “L” series professional macro lens—and for good reason. The RF 100mm represents the pinnacle of Canon’s macro technology, and I’m trying to determine whether it’s time to upgrade from my trusty EF 100mm f/2.8. In my experience, great macro lenses can truly elevate product photography and create eye-catching, detailed shots.
Let’s take a closer look at what makes this lens special and how it performs.
Key Features of the Canon RF 100mm f/2.8 L Macro Lens
1. Spherical Aberration Control
One standout feature of the RF 100mm is its spherical aberration (SA) control ring. This adjustment allows you to modify the appearance of bokeh—the out-of-focus areas in the background—by rotating the control.
The difference is especially noticeable in the background highlights of macro shots, where the bokeh appears softer or more pronounced, depending on your settings. For photographers focused on artistic product or macro photography, this is a valuable creative tool.
2. Enhanced Magnification
The EF 100mm macro lens offers a 1:1 magnification ratio, while the RF version improves to 1.4:1 magnification. While the difference may sound small on paper, it’s significant in practical use, especially for macro photographers who rely on capturing intricate details in small subjects.
3. Faster, Quieter Autofocus and Stabilization
The RF 100mm boasts a fast and quiet autofocus system, perfect for both photography and video work. Additionally, it offers advanced image stabilization, making handheld macro photography far easier. Paired with Canon’s in-body stabilization (IBIS) in cameras like the R5, you’ll achieve crisp, stabilized shots even without a tripod.
Practical Product Photography Demonstration
For this review, I set up a simple studio shoot with coffee beans. Here’s how I created the setup and key tips for achieving great macro product photos.
Step 1: The Setup
- I positioned a spoon of coffee beans using clamps to make it appear as though it was spilling beans in midair.
- For lighting, I used two main lights: the SmallRig RC 120B (bi-color) as the primary light and a SmallRig RM 120 for edge lighting.
This basic lighting setup added contrast and texture to the beans while emphasizing their shape and depth.
Three Tips for Better Macro Photography
1. Consider Depth of Field
In macro photography, depth of field is amplified, meaning focus falls off quickly. For example, shooting wide open at f/2.8 results in an extremely shallow depth of focus—sometimes less than an inch. For most product shots, it’s better to shoot at a narrower aperture like f/4 or f/5.6 for more detail across your subject.
2. Experiment with Overhead Shots
If you struggle to capture your entire subject in focus, try an overhead camera angle. This technique flattens the depth of field and makes it easier to keep everything sharp. It’s also why food photography is often shot from above—getting a full plate of food in focus from a side angle can be incredibly challenging.
3. Use Dimensional Lighting
When shooting products, lighting is everything. For macro photography, your goal is to create depth and emphasize texture. Use a main light to establish the scene and an edge light to highlight key details and create separation from the background.
Modifiers like egg crates can help direct the edge light more precisely for detailed work.
Final Thoughts: Is It Time to Upgrade?
The Canon RF 100mm f/2.8 L Macro Lens is undoubtedly Canon’s best macro option. While lenses like the non-L 85mm macro offer versatility, they can’t compete with the optical quality, magnification, and SA control of the RF 100mm.
If you rely on professional-level macro or product photography, this lens is worth every penny. It provides exceptional detail and flexibility, making it ideal for both studio and fieldwork.
Is It Worth Upgrading from the EF 100mm?
The EF version still produces beautiful, money-earning images, and for some photographers, it remains a solid choice. However, the RF 100mm’s improved features—including better optics, increased magnification, and bokeh control—make it a worthwhile upgrade for anyone who needs top-tier macro performance.
Ready to Elevate Your Macro Photography?
If you’re a professional or hobbyist interested in shooting macro, the Canon RF 100mm f/2.8 L should be on your radar. Have questions about this lens or macro photography in general? Leave a comment—I’d love to help!
Thanks for visiting the channel, and until the next video:
Cheers,
Hayward
