The
EF50mm f/2.5 Compact Macro is a relatively inexpensive
macro lens with a minimum focusing distance of 23 cm (9 inches) offering a maximum magnification of 0.5× actual size. The maximum 0.5× magnification means this lens is more suitable for photographing documents, products and objects at least 5 cm (2 inches) wide than small insects etc. The outer barrel is grooved to accept Canon's MR-14
ring flash which can be used as the principal light source for close-ups or as on-axis
fill lighting for portraits. The six-blade
diaphragm provides reasonably good out-of-focus blur (
bokeh) for portrait work. First introduced in 1987, it is the oldest lens in Canon's current lineup () that is still available new. The lens is constructed with a plastic body and metal mount, and features a distance window with infrared index and magnification markings. The optional
Life-Size Converter EF adapts the lens to produce a maximum magnification of 1:1. Attaching the converter increases the lens focal length to 70mm, reduces the maximum aperture to 3.5 and limits the focal range. Magnification markings for the converter are shown on the (extending) inner lens barrel. ==Specifications==