You’re Using the Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 WRONG! Here’s How to Fix It

If you’ve recently picked up the Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM—affectionately known as the Nifty Fifty—you might be confused by that strange switch on the side of the lens. It doesn’t say AF/MF like most other RF lenses. Instead, it says “Focus / Control”. What gives?

This post clears up that confusion and shows you exactly how to switch between autofocus and full manual focus properly. If you want to get the most out of this compact, budget-friendly prime lens, watch the video below for a full step-by-step demo.

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👉 Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM on Amazon

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What’s the Problem with Manual Focus on the Canon RF 50mm?

Unlike other Canon RF lenses such as the 24–105mm f/4, 35mm f/1.8, or 100–500mm f/4.5-7.1, the RF 50mm f/1.8 only has one multifunction ring. The switch on the side doesn’t toggle between autofocus (AF) and manual focus (MF). Instead, it changes whether that ring acts as a focus ring or a control ring.

So, even when you set the switch to “Focus,” the lens doesn’t enter full manual mode—it’s actually still in autofocus with manual override. That means you won’t get access to powerful manual focusing tools like Focus Peaking and the Focus Guide—unless you dig into your camera settings.

What You’ll Learn in the Video

This tutorial is essential if you’re a Canon shooter using any EOS R mirrorless camera. Inside the video, you’ll learn:

• What the “Focus/Control” switch really does
• Why just flipping the switch isn’t enough for true manual focus
• How to fully enable manual focus using your camera menu
• How to activate and use Focus Peaking and the Focus Guide
• A quick tip using the magnify feature to get razor-sharp focus
• What happens when you flip the switch back while in manual mode

If you also use the Canon RF 16mm f/2.8 STM, the same logic applies—so this guide will help with both lenses!

Why It Matters

Getting precise focus is crucial in photography and video. Whether you’re filming a talking-head video or capturing shallow depth-of-field portraits, knowing exactly how to switch focus modes gives you full control over your creative process.

Plus, Canon’s Focus Peaking and Focus Guide features are extremely helpful once you enable them. You’ll get faster and more accurate focus adjustments, especially when working in manual mode for video or tricky lighting conditions.

Extra Tip: Use the Control Ring Creatively

When in “Control” mode, the focus ring can be reassigned to adjust exposure compensation, ISO, or other settings—perfect for run-and-gun videographers or stills shooters who want faster control.

Don’t Miss the Video

If you want to avoid frustration and actually enjoy using your Canon RF 50mm, this video is a must-watch. You’ll walk away knowing how to:

✅ Switch between autofocus and true manual focus
✅ Access hidden focus tools on your Canon R-series camera
✅ Use the lens the way Canon intended

👉 Watch now: 📺 You’re Using the Canon RF 50mm WRONG! Here’s How to Fix It