Canon’s new RF 20mm f/1.4 L VCM is the company’s first 20mm f/1.4 prime lens, joining three other VCM lenses created specifically for hybrid creators.

The RF 20mm f/1.4 L VCM, like the Canon RF 24mm f/1.4 L VCM, which briefly held the title of Canon’s widest L series prime for RF, the RF 35mm f/1.4 L VCM, and the RF 50mm f/1.4 L VCM, claims to be as at ease in a video-first workflow as it is in a photographer’s kit. To cater to the hybrid audience, the VCM series lenses include a de-clicked manual aperture ring, reduced focus breathing, and Canon’s Voice Coil Motor autofocus technology, hence the model name. The Voice Coil Motors offer faster and smoother autofocus since the stronger motors can move the heavier glass elements used in Canon’s professional-grade L series lenses.

“This lens pushes the boundaries of creative expression, offering extensive width, and depth, and beautiful dramatic effects for those who seek a high level of output across still and video shooting,” according to Canon. “Perfect for creators, video journalists, corporate video professionals, and independent filmmakers, the new RF 20mm f/1.4 L VCM lens is an impressive addition to Canon’s products that cater to the new era of hybrid shooting needs.”

The lens has 15 elements inside, divided into 11 groups. These elements include one Super UD element, two UD elements, two aspherical lenses, and a BR lens.

BR stands for Blue Spectrum Refractive, which is an element that works with blue light. Blue light is more difficult for optical engineers to adjust for, particularly with larger lenses. While the RF 24mm f/1.4 L VCM lacks a BR element, it was necessary to incorporate it into the RF 20mm f/1.4 L VCM to achieve the same high-end optical performance in a single body design.

Canon has also made substantial efforts to ensure that its new RF 20mm f/1.4 L lens is suitable for astrophotography. After all, the focal length and quick aperture make an appealing combination for night sky watchers. To that end, the lens offers crisp, precise representation of stars, even in the corners.

Canon’s RF Hybrid Prime series, which includes the four L VCM lenses, has a single body design. All four lenses are 99.3 millimeters long and have a diameter of 76.5 millimeters. Each lens uses the same 67mm filter. While the weights vary slightly, ranging from 515 grams for the RF 24mm f/1.4 L VCM to 580 kilos for the RF 50mm f/1.4 L VCM, Canon claims that users will not need to alter a rig or gimbal when switching between the Hybrid Prime lenses. The new RF 20mm f/1.4 L VCM weighs just 519 grams.