Hey guys! Today, we’re diving deep into the Canon RF 800mm f/11 IS STM lens. This lens has been creating quite a buzz, and for good reason. It brings super-telephoto reach to the Canon EOS R system at a price point that's actually attainable for many photographers. Forget those crazy expensive super-telephotos; Canon is making the dream of capturing faraway subjects a reality for more of us. In this review, we’ll break down everything you need to know, from image quality and autofocus performance to its build and handling. So, grab your favorite beverage, sit back, and let's get started!

Overview of the Canon RF 800mm f/11 IS STM

Let's kick things off with a quick overview. The Canon RF 800mm f/11 IS STM is a full-frame lens designed for Canon's EOS R mirrorless cameras. Its standout feature is, of course, that massive 800mm focal length. This reach is incredible for wildlife, birding, sports, and even some types of astrophotography. What makes this lens particularly interesting is its fixed f/11 aperture and STM (Stepping Motor) autofocus system. Now, a fixed aperture might sound limiting, but it's one of the key factors that allows Canon to keep the size, weight, and cost down. The STM motor promises smooth and quiet autofocus, which is essential for video and capturing skittish subjects. The inclusion of image stabilization (IS) is another huge plus, helping to minimize camera shake when shooting handheld – which, let's be honest, you'll probably be doing a lot with a lens like this. Canon is betting that you're willing to embrace some limitations to get that massive reach without breaking the bank, and it’s a compelling proposition.

Image Quality: Sharpness, Aberrations, and Bokeh

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty: image quality. When you’re talking about a super-telephoto lens, sharpness is king. The Canon RF 800mm f/11 IS STM delivers surprisingly good sharpness, especially in the center of the frame. You can capture a lot of detail, making it great for showcasing the intricate patterns of bird feathers or the fine textures of wildlife. However, it's worth noting that sharpness does drop off a bit towards the edges, but honestly, at this focal length, your subject is usually smack-dab in the center anyway. Chromatic aberration (those annoying color fringes) is reasonably well-controlled, thanks to Canon's use of diffractive optics. You might see a little bit in high-contrast situations, but it's generally easy to correct in post-processing. Now, let's talk about bokeh. With a fixed f/11 aperture, you might not expect creamy, dreamy backgrounds, but the 800mm focal length helps to compress the background and create a decent amount of subject separation. The bokeh is reasonably smooth, though it can be a bit busy in certain situations. Ultimately, the image quality is a pleasant surprise given the lens's affordable price point. It’s not going to compete with Canon’s top-of-the-line super-telephotos, but it delivers a solid performance for the price.

Autofocus Performance: Speed and Accuracy

Next up, let's discuss autofocus. The Canon RF 800mm f/11 IS STM uses an STM (Stepping Motor) system, which is known for its smooth and quiet operation. In good lighting conditions, the autofocus is surprisingly quick and accurate. It locks onto subjects reliably, making it suitable for capturing action shots of birds in flight or wildlife on the move. However, in lower light, the autofocus performance can slow down a bit. The f/11 aperture limits the amount of light reaching the sensor, which can make it harder for the autofocus system to function optimally. It's not unusable in low light, but you might experience some hunting or slower focusing speeds. Using the center focus point tends to yield the best results in challenging lighting. Also, it's worth noting that the lens is compatible with Canon's Dual Pixel CMOS AF system, which provides excellent coverage and tracking capabilities. Overall, the autofocus performance is good for the price, but be aware of its limitations in low light.

Build Quality and Handling: Size, Weight, and Design

Now, let's talk about build quality and handling. The Canon RF 800mm f/11 IS STM is surprisingly lightweight and compact for an 800mm lens. This is largely thanks to its diffractive optics and fixed aperture design. The lens barrel is made of high-quality plastic, which helps to keep the weight down. While it doesn't feel as robust as Canon's professional-grade lenses, it still feels well-built and durable enough for regular use. The lens features a retractable design, which makes it more compact for storage and transport. When you're ready to shoot, you simply extend the lens barrel and lock it into place. The controls are straightforward and easy to use. There's a focus ring, a focus limiter switch, and an image stabilization switch. The focus ring is smooth and precise, allowing for manual focus adjustments when needed. One thing to note is that the lens does not have a tripod collar. This means that you'll need to mount the camera body directly onto a tripod, which can sometimes feel a bit unbalanced. However, given the lens's lightweight design, it's generally manageable. Overall, the build quality and handling are excellent for the price. The lens is lightweight, compact, and easy to use, making it a great option for photographers who want a super-telephoto lens that won't break their back.

Image Stabilization: How Well Does It Work?

Image stabilization (IS) is a crucial feature for any super-telephoto lens, and the Canon RF 800mm f/11 IS STM doesn't disappoint. Canon claims that the IS system provides up to 4 stops of shake reduction, and in real-world use, it performs admirably. You can comfortably shoot handheld at shutter speeds that would normally be impossible with an 800mm lens. This is a game-changer for wildlife and bird photographers who often find themselves shooting in situations where a tripod is impractical. The IS system helps to steady the image in the viewfinder, making it easier to compose your shots. It also reduces camera shake during video recording, resulting in smoother and more stable footage. Of course, image stabilization isn't a magic bullet. It won't eliminate all camera shake, especially in extreme conditions. However, it makes a significant difference and greatly enhances the usability of the lens. Whether you're shooting stills or video, the image stabilization system is a valuable asset.

Pros and Cons: Weighing the Trade-offs

Okay, let's break down the pros and cons of the Canon RF 800mm f/11 IS STM to help you decide if it's the right lens for you:

Pros:

• Incredible Reach: The 800mm focal length allows you to capture subjects from a great distance.
• Affordable Price: It's one of the most affordable super-telephoto lenses on the market.
• Lightweight and Compact: Easy to carry and handle, especially compared to other super-telephotos.
• Good Image Quality: Delivers surprisingly sharp images, especially in the center of the frame.
• Effective Image Stabilization: Helps to minimize camera shake and allows for handheld shooting.
• Smooth and Quiet Autofocus: The STM motor provides smooth and quiet autofocus operation.

Cons:

• Fixed f/11 Aperture: Limits the amount of light reaching the sensor, especially in low light.
• Slower Autofocus in Low Light: Autofocus performance can slow down in challenging lighting conditions.
• No Tripod Collar: Requires mounting the camera body directly onto a tripod, which can feel unbalanced.
• Plastic Build: Doesn't feel as robust as Canon's professional-grade lenses.
• Edge Sharpness: Sharpness drops off a bit towards the edges of the frame.

Who is This Lens For?

So, who is the Canon RF 800mm f/11 IS STM really for? This lens is ideal for:

• Wildlife Photographers: The 800mm focal length is perfect for capturing detailed shots of animals in their natural habitat.
• Bird Photographers: Get up close and personal with your feathered friends without disturbing them.
• Sports Photographers: Capture the action from the sidelines with incredible reach.
• Astrophotographers: Explore the night sky and capture stunning images of the moon and other celestial objects.
• Budget-Conscious Photographers: Get super-telephoto reach without breaking the bank.

If you fall into any of these categories, the Canon RF 800mm f/11 IS STM is definitely worth considering. It's a fantastic lens that delivers excellent value for the price.

Alternatives to the Canon RF 800mm f/11 IS STM

If the Canon RF 800mm f/11 IS STM doesn't quite fit your needs, here are a few alternatives to consider:

• Canon RF 600mm f/11 IS STM: A shorter focal length, but still offers super-telephoto reach at an affordable price.
• Canon RF 100-500mm f/4.5-7.1L IS USM: A more versatile zoom lens with excellent image quality, but at a higher price point.
• Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Contemporary: A popular third-party option for Canon EF mount cameras (requires an adapter for EOS R).
• Tamron 150-600mm f/5-6.3 Di VC USD G2: Another excellent third-party option for Canon EF mount cameras (requires an adapter for EOS R).

Final Verdict: Is the Canon RF 800mm f/11 IS STM Worth It?

So, the big question: is the Canon RF 800mm f/11 IS STM worth it? In my opinion, absolutely! It's an incredibly fun and capable lens that brings super-telephoto reach to the Canon EOS R system at a price that's hard to beat. Sure, it has some limitations, like the fixed f/11 aperture and slower autofocus in low light. But the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. The image quality is surprisingly good, the image stabilization is effective, and the lens is lightweight and easy to handle. If you're looking to explore the world of super-telephoto photography without emptying your wallet, the Canon RF 800mm f/11 IS STM is an excellent choice. It's a game-changer for wildlife, bird, sports, and even astrophotography. Go out there and capture some amazing shots!