Canon 50mm f2.5 macro sweet spot

[haggis]

As it says in the title really. Looking to use one of these, probably on a 7D but maybe 5D MkIII, for wedding details and wondered if anyone has a view on the sweet spot for this lens.

 

[Canon Bob]

For your usage it'll be fine at any aperture (in common with almost any macro lens). I always found that the 50/2.5 was a little special in that the bokeh in front of the subject was as good as that behind it....not always the case.

Bob

 

[haggis]

Thanks Bob. I know someone said that the 100mm 2.8 macro was best around f8 for ring shots so thought I would ask the question.

 

[Canon Bob]

Thanks Bob. I know someone said that the 100mm 2.8 macro was best around f8 for ring shots so thought I would ask the question.

As with any high magnification shots, the DoF is going to decrease as the aperture size increases and then the angle of the subject relative to the lens axis will be the deciding factor....the focal length has no relevance and it's the framing and angle that will determine the required aperture.

Bob

 

[woof woof]

Not really on topic but...

I assume you know that this lens isn't a true macro unless accompanied by the lifesize adapter. I've had two of theses and although I do like them I found I was happier with a longer focal length for macro and my Sigma 50mm f1.4 matched my Canon 50mm f2.5 for sharpness at every aperture the Canon could match.

Unless you specifically need the close focus ability I personally would look elsewhere for a 50mm. The Canon is rather slow to focus too and lacks any ability to allow full time manual focus override. Still an attractive lens though, compact and offering good image quality, just not perfect.

 

[haggis]

Thanks guys - really appreciate your honest comments.