The Canon FD 50-300mm f/4.5 L is a rare parfocal zoom introduced in 1982 as the final lens of the FD production line. Featuring a 6x zoom ratio from standard 50mm to telephoto 300mm, it uses two special UD elements within a 16-element, 13-group design to control chromatic aberration. The focus barrel rotates during operation, a characteristic of its original stills lens design.

Its 8-blade iris produces rounded out-of-focus highlights when wide open, transitioning to a subtle octagonal shape when stopped down. This lens features Canon’s Super Spectra Coating (S.S.C.), a multi-layer anti-reflective treatment developed to enhance light transmission and reduce ghosting and flare. It’s visually distinct from earlier single-layer "S.C." coatings and represents Canon’s advanced optical design standard during the FD era.

This full-frame zoom pairs seamlessly with Canon K35 and FD primes and complements other vintage sets from the 1970s and 1980s (Leica R, Olympus OM, Nikon, etc.). It delivers bold flares, smooth textured bokeh, and gentle fall-off, with no focus breathing or exposure ramping across the range. The generous image circle covers ARRI Alexa LF open gate throughout the entire zoom range.