23/03/2026 9:40 pm
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RF Mount Camera & Lens Forum
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So I just got this Canon R50 for my birthday because I really wanted to take better pictures of people and my sister is graduating next Saturday so I'm honestly freaking out a bit. I tried using the lens that came in the box but the background isnt blurry at all like those professional photos I see on instagram and I really want that look for her big day. Someone told me I need a "portrait lens" but when I look online there are like a million numbers and letters and I have no idea what any of it means.
I have maybe $250 or maybe $300 max left after buying the camera and I really need something that makes the background look soft. I saw something about a 50mm? But then someone else said 85mm is better? I dont even know what those mean or if they even fit on my camera because it says RF-S on the box and some lenses just say RF and I'm worried I'll buy the wrong one. I am so sorry if this is a stupid question but I'm just so lost and the graduation is in 6 days and I need to learn how to use it fast. I'm in Chicago so I can probably run to a store if I know what to ask for.
What should I get if I want:
- very blurry backgrounds
- fits the R50 without an adapter
- under $300
Is there a specific one that is best for a total newbie who doesnt understand settings yet?
3 Answers
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23/03/2026 10:05 pm
@Reply #2 - good point! Just be cautious since the R50 has a 1.6x crop factor, so that Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM gives you an 80mm effective field of view. Don't worry about the RF vs RF-S label; RF lenses are fully compatible. I would suggest keeping your shutter speed at 1/125 or higher to prevent blur. Since youre under budget, grab the Canon Lens Hood ES-65B to help with sun glare.
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23/03/2026 10:15 pm
Welcome to the club! You're gonna love the R50! Since it's a crop sensor camera, a 50mm lens actually acts like an 80mm, which is the sweet spot for portraits. If you can find a used Canon RF 85mm f/2 Macro IS STM at a local shop, it's even better for that blurry look!
- set your f-number to the lowest possible
- stand 5-10 feet away
- focus on her eyes It'll look amazing!
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23/03/2026 9:40 pm
Just grab the Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM. It is the safest bet for your budget and fits the R50 directly. Even though it says RF instead of RF-S, it works fine on your camera without any issues.
- Fits your $300 budget easily
- Creates very blurry backgrounds
- No adapter needed It is a solid, official lens that wont cause compatibility problems.
