No photo available for this lens
Production
1961 – 1974
Country
Japan
Optical
11 elements in 9 groups
Updated
Feb 15, 2026
Canon 50mm f/0.95 "Dream Lens"
Canon EF
Overview
The Canon 50mm f/0.95 'Dream Lens' is exactly what it sounds like — the stuff of dreams. Designed in 1961 for the Canon 7 rangefinder, it was the fastest 50mm lens in the world at the time. With an aperture of f/0.95, it could see in near darkness and create depth of field so shallow it was almost unusable. But that was the point — this was a showcase lens, a statement of what Canon could achieve. Today it commands prices in the thousands and remains one of the most legendary lenses ever made.
Verdict: This isn't a lens — it's a legend. You don't buy the Dream Lens to take sharp photos; you buy it to create images that don't look like anything else. At f/0.95, you're not taking pictures — you're painting with light. For collectors and artists only.
Optical Character
Bokeh
Very smooth and creamy, better than the f/1.4 version, though not quite reaching the level of Canon's f/1.2L lenses. The large aperture creates strong subject separation.
Color
Nikon neutral with a slight warmth wide open, cooler than Canon lenses but not cold.
Sharpness wide open
Softer wide open than the f/1.4 version (intentional for the 'glow' look), but sharpens up nicely by f/2 in the center and f/4 in the corners.
Flare resistance
Good multi-coating control, better than the Canon f/1.2 for flare resistance.
Contrast
Lower contrast at f/1.2 (the 'glow' look), builds to high contrast by f/2.8.
Vignetting
Heavy vignetting at f/1.2, around 2 stops, creating a 'spotlight' effect.
Community Insights
Summary: The Canon FD lens series, both the breech lock FD and bayonet mount nFD variants, have garnered significant interest and appreciation from the vintage lens community. Prices for these lenses have skyrocketed in recent years, with some models becoming highly sought-after and valuable investments. Sentiment: Mixed Top Praised: - Excellent optical quality and image rendering - Unique vintage aesthetic and character - Affordability (for some models) compared to modern lenses - Compatibility with various camera systems via adapters Top Complaints: - Rapidly increasing prices, pricing out some users - Concerns about lenses being overpriced or reaching peak value - Availability and scarcity of certain sought-after models - Potential for condition issues (dust, fungus, etc.) in used lenses Use Cases: - Cinematic and video production, taking advantage of the vintage look - Creative photography, leveraging the unique rendering and character - Collecting and investment opportunities for some models Disagreements: - Opinions vary on whether the FD lens market has peaked or will continue to rise Confidence: 0.8
What people love
- f/0.95 — the fastest 50mm of its era
- Legendary status and history
- The 'Dream' look is unmatchable
- Low light capability before digital ISO
- Unique images that stand out immediately
- Investment piece — holds/gains value
- The ultimate conversation starter
What people dislike
- Price ($2500-5000+)
- Basically unusable wide open for 'normal' photography
- Extremely difficult to focus at f/0.95
- Heavy flare
- Rangefinder mount limits body options
- Many copies have issues after 60+ years
- Style over substance
Pro Tips
- Shoot it at f/0.95 or don't bother — that's what it's for
- Focus peaking is essential on mirrorless
- Use in controlled conditions — the lens doesn't handle backlight well
- Great for video — the look is cinematic
- Consider M-mount conversion if not using original Canon 7
Sources (4)
phillip_reeve-
https://phillipreeve.net/blog/review-canon-50mm-0-95-the-original-f-0-95-dream-lens/canon_50mm_0-95_tv/
vintagelensesforvideo-
https://www.vintagelensesforvideo.com/canon-fd-price-list/
phillip_reeve-
https://phillipreeve.net/blog/review-canon-ef-50mm-1-0-l-usm-still-the-worlds-fastest-af-lens/
Lens Heritage 2nd JSONsecondary
The Canon 50mm f/0.95 'Dream Lens' is exactly what it sounds like — the stuff of dreams. Designed in 1961 for the Canon 7 rangefinder, it was the fastest 50mm lens in the world at the time. With an aperture of f/0.95, it could see in near darkness and create depth of field so shallow it was almost unusable. But that was the point — this was a showcase lens, a statement of what Canon could achieve. Today it commands prices in the thousands and remains one of the most legendary lenses ever made.