The 35mm and 50mm focal lengths are both classics — once considered standard and used for everything from everyday photography to professional work, before zoom lenses took over. While zoom lenses offer versatility, most photographers eventually add a prime lens to their kit for the sharpness, maximum aperture, and low-light performance they provide. Let's help you decide which Canon prime lens should be your first.
35mm — Just Wide Enough
35mm is a wide focal length, but not ultra-wide. You'll fit plenty of detail and context into your shots without constantly needing to step closer to your subject. Wide-angle lenses also produce a greater depth of field, meaning more of your scene will appear in focus — useful for travel, landscapes, and environmental portraits.
35mm lenses are a favourite for travel photography, street photography, and photojournalism, where capturing the scene around your subject is just as important as the subject itself.
Canon RF 35mm f1.8 Macro IS STM — Sample Image
For Canon EOS R users, the Canon RF 35mm f1.8 Macro IS STM is a compact, versatile option that also doubles as a macro lens — making it one of the most practical primes in the RF lineup. For those wanting a wider aperture, the Canon RF 35mm VCM is a newer addition worth considering.
50mm — The "Nifty Fifty"
Canon RF 50mm f1.2 L USM — Sample Image
The field of view of a 50mm lens is often described as "normal" — close to what the human eye naturally sees, which many beginners find makes composition more intuitive. The slightly longer focal length also makes it easier to produce a shallow depth of field, giving you that beautiful background blur (bokeh) that prime lenses are known for.
50mm lenses are a go-to for portrait photography, and their typically bright maximum apertures make them excellent for low-light and night-time shooting. Street photographers also appreciate the slightly tighter view, allowing them to maintain some distance from their subjects for a more candid result.
Canon offers two standout RF 50mm options: the ultra-compact and affordable Canon RF 50mm f1.8 STM, and the premium Canon RF 50mm f1.2 L USM for those who want the very best in optical performance and maximum light gathering.
Add a Canon Prime Lens to Your Kit Today
The 35mm and 50mm focal lengths are classics for a reason, and Canon's RF lineup does both exceptionally well. You'll probably end up with both eventually — but hopefully this has made your first Canon prime lens decision a little easier.
Keep an eye on the Ted's Cameras blog for more lens recommendations, expert advice, and product roundups.