Five years ago, a new chapter began in my life. My son was born, and with his arrival, I dove into the world of photography. Like many parents, I wanted to capture every smile, every milestone, and every candid moment. But as a newbie, selecting the right photo gear felt like navigating a labyrinth. There’s a sea of information out there, and for someone just starting, it’s overwhelming.
If you’re reading this, you might be in a similar situation, eager to capture those dreamy shots of your family but unsure about the equipment. You’re not alone, and that’s why I’ve created this guide to the best Canon lenses for child and family photography.
Also, for those looking to delve deeper into the subject, I’ve previously crafted a guide for those wanting to master the art of child and family photography.
Do You Own an APS-C or Full-Frame Canon Camera?
Before selecting the lens for your Canon camera, you must first identify if your camera has an APS-C or Full-Frame sensor.
This is a very important step, because the type of sensor determines the effective field of view you’ll get from the lens, and lenses designed specifically for one sensor size might not perform optimally or even be compatible with the other.
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How to Identify If Your Canon Camera Has an APS-C or Full-Frame Sensor?
The quickest and easiest way to determine if your Canon camera has an APS-C or Full-Frame sensor is to check online. Simply visit amazon.com or bhphotovideo.com, type the model of your camera into the search bar, and hit enter. Select your camera model, and check its description.
In most cases, the sensor type of your camera is stated directly in the description. Here’s an example:
Now that you’ve identified the sensor type of your Canon camera, you can move forward in choosing the perfect Canon lens for family photography. For cameras with an APS-C sensor, focus on lenses designed specifically for APS-C:
- Best Canon Zoom Lenses for Canon Cameras with APS-C Sensor
- Best Canon Prime Lenses for Canon Cameras with APS-C Sensor
If your camera boasts a Full-Frame sensor, seek out lenses tailored for Full-Frame sensors:
Best Canon Zoom Lenses for Canon Cameras with APS-C Sensor
Canon EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM Lens
- EF-M mount lens
- APS-C format
- Maximum aperture: f/3.5-6.3
- Optical image stabilizer
Amazon rating: 4.7 out of 5, based on 69 individual reviews
Crafted for Canon’s APS-C mirrorless cameras, the Canon EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM Lens offers a versatile 24-72mm equivalent focal span, suitable for wide vistas to close-up family moments.
The lens integrates three aspherical elements, ensuring sharpness and reduced chromatic aberrations. Specialized coatings combat flare and ghosting, ensuring vibrant contrast and colors. The lead-screw-type STM stepping motor delivers fast, quiet autofocus, ideal for capturing candid moments and videos of energetic kids. Additionally, its Optical Image Stabilizer minimizes camera shake up to 3.5 stops, especially useful in dim settings.
In line with the compact ethos of EOS M-series cameras, this lens boasts a retractable design, making it a portable and indispensable tool for family photography.
Canon EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM Lens Technical Specifications
- Designed for APS-C format and compatible with the EF-M mount
- Provides a 24-72mm focal range, equivalent to 35mm
- Has a maximum aperture ranging from f/3.5 to f/6.3
- Incorporates three aspherical elements
- Features an STM stepping autofocus motor
- Equipped with an optical image stabilizer
- Boasts a retractable design for a streamlined profile
Canon EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM Lens Pros and Cons
- Sleek and light build
- Central image sharpness
- Offers broader coverage compared to other beginner zoom lenses
- Equipped with optical stabilization
- Limited aperture range
- Darkened corners when set at 15mm
- Edges lack sharpness
Highlights of What People Say About Canon EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM Lens
- “I was astounded by the image clarity of this lens when I paired it with my M50, along with the 55-200 lens. Despite owning various ef-s, ef, and now a third ef-m lens, I consistently use this and the 55-200. Its utility as a versatile lens and the combined lightweight nature with the camera provides relief for my aching back. Unlike other kit lenses I've sold due to average performance, this one is definitely staying in my collection.”
- “This lens and the M-50 camera bundle were a superb purchase. Lightweight, compact, and adequately sharp for a multi-purpose lens. The integrated IS makes it perfect for capturing family moments.”
- “The 15-45mm lens offers astounding image quality, catering to over 90% of my candid shots. It's impressively sharp with rich contrast. Couldn't be happier!”
- “Combined with an M10, this lens is fantastic in delivering consistent sharpness across its zoom spectrum. The compact duo is ideal for moments when both landscapes and portraits are on the agenda.”
Canon EF-M 18-150 mm f/3.5-6.3 is STM Lens
- EF-M mount lens
- APS-C format
- Maximum aperture: f/3.5-6.3
- Optical image stabilizer
Amazon rating: 4.6 out of 5, based on 298 individual reviews
Designed for Canon’s APS-C sensor cameras, the Canon EF-M 18-150 mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM lens boasts a compact, yet sophisticated optical design, delivering consistent sharpness across the entire zoom span.
Equipped with an STM stepping AF motor, it ensures rapid, near-silent autofocus, ideal for both photography and video recording. Its Image Stabilizer combats camera shake for up to four stops, ensuring crisp handheld shots.
Additionally, the lens offers a commendable close-up capability with a maximum magnification of 0.31x and a 9.8″ minimum focusing distance of 150mm. In summary, the Canon EF-M 18-150 mm lens is a compact, all-in-one solution perfect for capturing children in action or framing cherished family moments.
Canon EF-M 18-150 mm f/3.5-6.3 is STM Lens Technical Specifications
- Designed for APS-C format
- Compatible with EF-M Mount
- Features an STM autofocus system
- Has a maximum aperture ranging from f/3.5 to f/6.3
- Equipped with an optical image stabilizer
- Benefits from Combination IS and stabilized panning
- Measures 2.4 x 2.4 x 3.43 inches in dimensions
- Weighs in at 0.66 lbs (approximately 299 grams)
Canon EF-M 18-150 mm f/3.5-6.3 is STM Lens Pros and Cons
- Fast autofocus capability
- Exceptional sharpness throughout the image
- Compact and sleek design
- 8.3x magnification zoom capability
- Reliable image stabilization
- Noticeable barrel distortion and soft edges at 18mm
- Dimmed corners in RAW format
- Lens mount made of plastic
Highlights of What People Say About Canon EF-M 18-150 mm f/3.5-6.3 is STM Lens
- “I switched from my Canon 24-105L and EF to EFM adapter to this lens and haven't regretted it. The lens boasts remarkable image stabilization and sharpness. It fits comfortably in the hand and is ideal for photographers seeking a versatile lens.”
- “I've had a delightful experience with the Canon M200, especially paired with the 18-150 lens. Whether I'm zooming in for a closer look or capturing a wider scene, the lens delivers. Together with the compact camera, this setup is just perfect.”
- “I took this lens on my European trip and captured around 1,470 breathtaking photos. The lens's speedy autofocus let me capture detailed images of landscapes, architecture, and even close-up shots of individuals and flora. It's the ultimate travel companion.”
Best Canon Zoom Lenses for Canon Cameras with Full-Frame Sensor
Canon RF 24-105mm F4-7.1 IS Lens
- RF-mount lens
- Full-frame format
- Optical image stabilizer
- Customizable control ring
Amazon rating: 4.5 out of 5, based on 109 individual reviews
Designed specifically for Canon’s full-frame RF mount, the Canon RF 24-105mm f/4-7.1 IS STM lens is every parent’s dream tool for capturing cherished family moments. This versatile lens covers wide-angle to short telephoto perspectives, making it perfect for everything from close-ups of your child’s first steps to wide shots at family gatherings.
Its unique Center Macro Focus allows for detailed close-up shots – think baby’s tiny fingers or the sparkle in a child’s eye. Thanks to the built-in Optical Image Stabilizer, even those unexpected, quick movements are captured with clarity. For parents who might venture into video, the lens’s STM motor ensures silent and smooth autofocus.
A user-friendly touch for busy parents is the configurable Control Ring, which lets you easily adjust exposure settings without taking your eye off that precious moment. Plus, the lens’s rounded seven-blade diaphragm adds a beautiful, soft bokeh background, ensuring your family remains the central focus of every shot.
Canon RF 24-105mm F4-7.1 IS Lens Technical Specifications
- Designed for full-frame format
- Compatible with RF-mount
- Features an STM stepping autofocus motor
- Offers center macro focus with a 1:2 magnification
- Equipped with an optical image stabilizer
- Comes with a customizable control ring
- Utilizes a 7-blade rounded diaphragm
Canon RF 24-105mm F4-7.1 IS Lens Pros and Cons
- Compact and lightweight build
- Extensive zoom range
- Fast and silent autofocus
- Offers 1:2 macro magnification
- Limited focus breathing
- Competitively priced
- Lacks dust and splash protection
- Restricted aperture, limiting performance in low-light conditions
Highlights of What People Say About Canon RF 24-105mm F4-7.1 IS Lens
- “I've been using this lens for three months and it's fantastic value for money. It's always in my pack during nature walks. It's notably compact and lightweight for a full-frame zoom lens, although I've only tried it during the day.”
- “The RF 24-105mm f/4-7.1 lens provides a diverse focal range suitable for Canon RF-mount cameras. However, the variable aperture might not be ideal for low-light scenarios. Still, it's an affordable and compact choice for both photography and videography.”
- “Initially, I got this lens for my R6, but I was so impressed that I purchased another one for my Canon R10. It's a worthy investment.”
- “I got this lens at a reasonable price, and it pairs well with my Canon EOS RP. The image quality is up to my standards. I'd recommend these lenses to budding photographers who are mindful of their budget.”
Canon RF 24-70mm F2.8 L is USM Lens
- RF-mount lens
- Full-frame format
- Optical image stabilizer
- Customizable control ring
Amazon rating: 4.9 out of 5, based on 374 individual reviews
For Canon’s full-frame mirrorless cameras, the Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8 L IS USM Lens is a parent’s go-to. From first steps to family gatherings, its consistent f/2.8 aperture captures clear moments, even in low light.
Its advanced optics ensure every smile and surprise is sharp and vibrant. And with the Optical Image Stabilizer, playful antics or sudden movements are crisply caught, even on the move. The lens’s near-silent Nano USM focus won’t disrupt candid moments, and the unique Control Ring makes on-the-fly adjustments a breeze.
Weather-sealed and fingerprint-resistant, it’s built for family adventures of all kinds. Being a part of Canon’s esteemed L-series ensures durability. Plus, its smooth bokeh ensures your family moments stand out against beautiful backgrounds. In short, the Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8 L IS USM is the perfect ally for capturing the heart of every family occasion.
Canon RF 24-70mm F2.8 L is USM Lens Technical Specifications
- Designed for full-frame format
- Compatible with RF-mount
- The aperture range spans from f/2.8 to f/22
- Incorporates three aspherical elements
- Contains three ultra-low dispersion components
- Enhanced with air sphere and fluorine coatings
- Features a Nano USM autofocus system
- Equipped with an optical image stabilizer
- Comes with a customizable control ring
- Utilizes a 9-blade rounded diaphragm
Canon RF 24-70mm F2.8 L is USM Lens Pros and Cons
- Outstanding image clarity and resolution
- Durable and sturdy construction
- Provides a broad focal range
- Efficient image stabilization
- Rapid and silent autofocus mechanism
- Resistant to dust, splashes, and smudges
- Produces pleasing bokeh
- Effective flare resistance
- Noticeable vignetting at 24mm
- Bulky and weighty
- On the pricier side
Highlights of What People Say About Canon RF 24-70mm F2.8 L is USM Lens
- “I acquired this lens to complement my R5, primarily for travel and portrait shots. During a recent visit to Greece, it became my primary lens. I'm genuinely impressed by its versatile focal length range and sharpness.”
- “This lens had been on my wishlist for a considerable time. Now that I've finally procured it, it surpasses all my anticipations. Paired with the R5, it's a match made in heaven, and I couldn't be more delighted to have it in my collection.”
- “The excellence of this lens is truly captivating. My only lament is not getting it earlier!”
- “The essence of Canon's quality craftsmanship in lens-making is evident in this product. While it may come with a hefty price tag, it's an investment that guarantees a legacy of brilliant photographs.”
- “As someone passionate about full-frame photography, I was unsure about the difference between f/2.8 and f/4. But after acquiring the 70-200, followed by the 24-70, I've realized the unparalleled worth of the f/2.8 series. For those immersed in full-frame, investing in the f/2.8 trinity is imperative, with this lens being its linchpin. Get it now, and you'll understand its value in no time.”
Best Canon Prime Lenses for Canon Cameras with APS-C Sensor
Canon EF-M 32mm f/1.4 STM Lens
- EF-M mount lens
- APS-C format
- Aperture range: f/1.4 to f/16
- Gear-type STM stepping AF motor
Amazon rating: 4.7 out of 5, based on 278 individual reviews
For Canon’s APS-C mirrorless cameras, the Canon EF-M 32mm f/1.4 STM Lens is a family photographer’s gem. Offering an equivalent of 51.2mm, it’s perfectly poised to capture your child’s radiant smile, a family dinner, or a heartwarming hug between siblings.
With its expansive f/1.4 aperture, those indoor moments or evening backyard adventures are beautifully captured, even in challenging lighting. The lens’s unique aspherical element ensures every photo is sharp and clear, making those memories truly timeless. Its Super Spectra Coating also ensures that even under bright lights or during sunset moments, the contrast remains striking without any flare.
Autofocus is swift and nearly silent, thanks to its STM motor — ensuring spontaneous moments aren’t missed. And for those who love the art of photography, the full-time manual focus offers refined control. The lens’s pleasing bokeh, produced by its rounded seven-blade diaphragm, ensures that your family moments truly pop, with a touch of artistic elegance. In essence, the Canon EF-M 32mm f/1.4 STM is a trusted companion for capturing every cherished family milestone.
Canon EF-M 32mm f/1.4 STM Lens Technical Specifications
- Designed for APS-C format and compatible with the EF-M mount
- Provides a 51.2mm focal length, equivalent to 35mm
- Features an aperture range from f/1.4 to f/16
- Incorporates a singular aspherical element
- Enhanced with a super spectra coating
- Equipped with a gear-type STM autofocus motor
- Utilizes a 7-blade rounded diaphragm
Canon EF-M 32mm f/1.4 STM Lens Pros and Cons
- Lightweight and compact design
- Impressive image quality
- Very sharp across the frame
- Fast and accurate autofocus
- Wide f/1.4 aperture
- Minimal chromatic aberration
- Great value for its price
- Some barrel distortion
- Mild peripheral shading at f/1.4
- Not weather-sealed
- Slight spherical/axial chromatic aberration at wide apertures
Highlights of What People Say About Canon EF-M 32mm f/1.4 STM Lens
- "The EF-M 32mm f/1.4 is a premier 50mm equivalent prime lens, excelling in every aspect. It performs brilliantly from its widest setting to f/11. Adjusting to f/1.6 further refines light distribution. With barely any distortion, consistent edge-to-edge clarity, absence of focus shift, and captivating bokeh in close-up nature captures, it's perfect for landscapes, general photography, street scenes, and portraits. A game-changer for APS-C users."
- "While there's a hint of softness at the widest apertures, the lens demonstrates remarkable versatility and sharpness, especially at f2.8. It complements the M6ii perfectly."
- "This lens, equivalent to a 50mm prime, is a marked enhancement over the 15-45mm kit lens."
- "The lens has been a delightful addition to my gear. Its capabilities have impressed me, and I'm eager to utilize it on my next journey. My extensive research prior to the purchase has paid off, leaving no room for regrets."
Canon EF-M 22mm f/2 STM Lens
- EOS M mount lens
- APS-C format
- Bright f/2 lens aperture
- Smooth & continuous AF
Amazon rating: 4.7 out of 5, based on 1175 individual reviews
Designed exclusively for Canon’s EOS M Digital Cameras with an APS-C sensor, the EF-M 22mm f/2 STM is a prime lens that makes capturing your children’s milestones and family moments even more special.
With its bright f/2 aperture combined with the EOS M’s sensor, you can ensure beautifully lit shots even in low light. The aspheric element guarantees sharp, distortion-free images, while the built-in stepping motor provides silent autofocus, perfect for spontaneous videos of family fun.
The lens’s seven-blade circular aperture produces soft-focus backgrounds, ensuring your loved ones stand out. With a minimum focusing distance of just 5.9″ (15 cm), it’s easier than ever to capture those close-up smiles and giggles.
Compact and lightweight, this lens is your ideal companion for those moments you never want to forget.
Canon EF-M 22mm f/2 STM Lens Technical Specifications
- Designed for the EOS M Mirrorless cameras
- Serves as a moderate wide-angle lens
- Features a bright f/2 lens aperture, enhancing its low-light performance
- Incorporates one aspheric lens element
- Equipped with a built-in stepping motor that ensures smooth and continuous autofocus
- Utilizes a seven-blade circular aperture
- Offers a short minimum focusing distance, at just 5.9 inches
Canon EF-M 22mm f/2 STM Lens Pros and Cons
- Compact and lightweight
- Solid build quality
- Quick and virtually silent autofocus
- Pleasing bokeh
- Some chromatic aberrations
- Not the most user-friendly manual focusing
Highlights of What People Say About Canon EF-M 22mm f/2 STM Lens
- "This lens is fantastic for my M50 Mark II due to its practical size. It allows me to travel light while achieving professional results."
- "I bought this lens for versatile photography with my M50 Mk II. It's impressively small, delivers sharp images even at f2.0, and offers vibrant colors and distinct subject separation. For its price, there's nothing comparable."
- "An excellent compact lens of superior quality for the M mount."
- "I was already interested in this lens for my M50 II, but the Black Friday discount made it irresistible. It's perfect for vloggers, videographers, and portrait photographers. Definitely a five-star purchase."
- "This lens complements the Canon M50 II kit lens wonderfully. Its large F-2 aperture excels in dim settings and produces a professional bokeh effect. While it's affordable and portable, it lacks image stabilization."
Best Canon Prime Lenses for Canon Cameras with Full-Frame Sensor
Canon RF 50mm F1.8 STM Lens
- RF-mount lens
- Full-frame format
- Aperture range: f/1.8 to f/22
- Customizable control ring
Amazon rating: 4.7 out of 5, based on 1803 individual reviews
The Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM is a prime lens crafted for Canon’s full-frame RF-mount mirrorless cameras. This lens offers the perfect blend of versatility and compact design. Perfect for everyday family moments, it excels in settings ranging from candid childhood smiles to intimate family gatherings.
Its bright f/1.8 aperture ensures sharp, well-lit shots even in dim lighting, and the precision-molded aspherical element guarantees clear, distortion-free images. The STM motor provides swift, silent autofocus, making it a dream for spontaneous videos of those unforgettable milestones.
With the built-in Control Ring, adjusting exposure on the fly becomes second nature. And for those heartwarming portraits, the rounded seven-blade diaphragm crafts a beautiful bokeh background. Lightweight and efficient, this lens is every parent’s top choice for encapsulating family moments with pristine clarity.
Canon RF50mm F1.8 STM Lens Technical Specifications
- Designed for full-frame cameras
- Aperture range from f/1.8 to f/22
- Compact and lightweight prime lens
- STM stepping autofocus motor
- Customizable control ring
- Aspherical element and SSC coating
- 7-blade rounded diaphragm
Canon RF50mm F1.8 STM Lens Pros and Cons
- Compact and lightweight
- Solid build quality (mostly metal construction)
- Quick and silent autofocus
- Effective eye autofocus
- Great image quality
- Pleasing bokeh
- Affordable pricing
- Significant vignetting
- No weather sealing
Highlights of What People Say About Canon RF50mm F1.8 STM Lens
- "The RF 50mm lens offers good value for its price. It's suitable for those seeking an affordable portrait lens for occasional use."
- "The 'nifty fifty' lens is ideal for everyday use, being lightweight with quick focus. Paired with my Canon R8, it's excellent for general photography. The smooth bokeh is a bonus, and the absence of image stabilization doesn't bother me since I don't film. Given its competitive price, it's a top choice."
- "After purchasing this lens for my Canon R8 three weeks ago, I've observed that it delivers impressive image quality for its budget-friendly price. While photos at f 1.8 can sometimes appear soft, increasing the aperture to 2.6 sharpens the image. It's a recommendable budget-friendly portrait lens, especially for travel and casual shots."
- "Having recently acquired a new mirrorless camera, I opted for this lens. It performs on par with the 50mm EF lens I previously owned but is more compact. It's a solid recommendation for those with an RF mount camera and a tight budget."
Canon RF 85mm F1.2 L USM Lens
- RF-mount lens
- Full-frame format
- Aperture range: f/1.2 to f/16
- Customizable control ring
Amazon rating: 4.7 out of 5, based on 145 individual reviews
Designed exclusively for Canon’s full-frame RF-mount mirrorless cameras, this prime lens offers a perfect balance for beautiful portrait photos.
Its bright f/1.2 aperture excels in low light, allowing you to highlight every heartfelt smile with a beautiful depth of field. The innovative Blue Spectrum Refractive Optics element ensures stunning color accuracy, making every picture burst with life.
With its ultra-quiet Ultrasonic Motor, candid moments remain undisturbed. The built-in Control Ring offers seamless exposure adjustments, and being part of Canon’s elite L-series, it’s weather-sealed for family outings. In essence, this lens lets parents relive every precious memory in vivid detail.
Canon RF 85mm F1.2 L USM Lens Technical Specifications
- Designed for full-frame cameras and compatible with the RF-mount
- Features an aperture range from f/1.2 to f/16
- Enhanced with a Blue Spectrum Refractive Optics element
- Incorporates one UD element and one aspherical element
- Equipped with an Air Sphere Coating
- Utilizes a ring-type ultrasonic motor for autofocus
- Comes with a customizable control ring
- Boasts a 9-blade rounded diaphragm
Canon RF 85mm F1.2 L USM Lens Pros and Cons
- Extra-bright f/1.2 optics
- Excellent resolution
- Reliable autofocus
- Dust, splash, and fluorine protection
- Great image quality
- Pleasing bokeh
- Customizable control ring
- Hefty in weight
- Quite expensive
Highlights of What People Say About Canon RF 85mm F1.2 L USM Lens
- "I've been considering this lens for some time, occasionally renting it. Now that I've purchased it, it's my go-to for portrait and family photos. Truly one of the best investments I've made!"
- "I recently used this premium lens for a shoot, and the headshots were exceptional. While my 70-200 2.8 lens previously delivered great results, this new lens surpasses it in clarity and the gentle transition to softness. While I rely heavily on the holy trinity for most of my photography, this lens has become a standout for portraits. Thrilled to add it to my collection."
- "After transitioning from the slower focusing EF 85mm f/1.2, I was eager to try this lens. It's among the sharpest and quickest focusing lenses I own, comparable to the RF 135 f/1.8. Shooting predominantly at f/1.2, its focus is consistently reliable, producing stunning background separation. It's on par with the EF 200 f/2.0 lens and is essential for wedding and portrait photographers."
Best Canon Lenses for Child and Family Photography: Final Words
The Canon lens universe, rich with diversity and innovation, can seem like an intricate maze, especially when zeroing in on the dynamic realm of child and family photography.
Amidst the vast offerings from Canon, distinguishing between the optimal lenses for cropped or full-frame cameras, and discerning the unique characteristics of zoom versus prime, might initially appear daunting. That’s where this guide steps in. This best lens for child and family photography guide delves into the pros, cons, and firsthand user experiences of each Canon lens, striving to simplify your upcoming investment.
The right lens is paramount when you’re aiming to freeze a toddler’s spontaneous giggle or a family’s heartfelt gathering. With the insights from this ‘Best Canon Lenses for Child and Family Photography 2023 Guide’, your path to selecting the perfect Canon lens is clearer, ensuring those evanescent, treasured moments are captured flawlessly.
