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Canon Extension Rings | EF25 II | EF12 II | Buy
Buy Canon extension rings (e.g. EF25 II, EF12 II & others) online
Greater proximity, more possibilities: with Canon extension rings such as the EF12 II or EF25 II, you can capture impressive detail with your existing lens – without having to invest in a new macro lens.
At Foto Siegl, you can find genuine Canon extension rings and matching accessories – ideal for creative experiments, specific macro applications and greater photographic freedom. Discover them now, order directly and trust in specialist retailer quality.
EF12 II vs. EF25 II – which model suits your lens?
Canon offers two original extension rings: the EF12 II, which is 12 mm long, and the EF25 II, which is 25 mm long. Both versions are designed for Canon EF and EF-S lenses and support electronic communication between the camera and lens – including aperture control and autofocus (on supported lenses).
- EF12 II: shorter distance, lower magnification (ideal for slight close-up gains with standard zooms or prime lenses)
- EF25 II: stronger effect, shorter focus distance (particularly suitable for telephoto lenses or targeted close-ups with significant subject magnification)
Tip: The effect can vary significantly depending on the lens. Extension rings work best with medium to long focal lengths (e.g. 50 mm to 135 mm) and a short minimum focusing distance. If you want to remain flexible, combine both options for even stronger macro effects.
When are extension rings useful and when are they not
Canon extension rings are always worth it if you want to use existing lenses for close-ups – flexibly, compactly and without investing in a dedicated macro lens.
They are particularly suitable for:
- Nature subjects such as flowers, leaves and insects (provided the subjects are patient)
- Product and detail photography in everyday life
- Creative experiments with focus and perspective
- On the go, when lightweight kit is required
Extension rings are less suitable if...
- You require the highest magnification ratios (e.g. 1:1)
- you are working with extremely short focal lengths (e.g. 24 mm)
- you require maximum depth of field and full aperture
- You expect absolute precision when focusing (e.g. in studio macro photography)
Compatibility with Canon cameras & lenses
The Canon EF12 II and EF25 II extension rings are designed for the Canon EF mount and are therefore fully compatible with:
- Canon digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) cameras with EF or EF-S mounts
- Canon EF and EF-S lenses, particularly in the standard and telephoto ranges
- Canon EOS R system cameras, when an EF-EOS R adapter is used
The following are not compatible:
- Canon RF lenses without an EF-EOS R adapter
- Lenses with rear elements that protrude significantly (mechanical risk)
- Third-party lenses (no official approval, functional limitations possible)
Tip: Full electronic communication is only reliably maintained with genuine Canon lenses – including aperture, AF and EXIF data. For optimal results, we recommend using high-quality prime lenses or lightweight telephoto zooms.
Technical check: Autofocus, light loss & handling
When using Canon extension rings, the optical performance of the lens changes – with advantages, but also with technical effects that you should be aware of.
- Autofocus
:- Continues to work reliably with many EF and
EF-S lenses.- May become slower or less precise in low light
or at very short focusing distances.- Manual focusing often delivers better results in critical situations. - Light loss
:- The larger the extension ring, the more light is lost
.- Depending on the lens, the EF25 II can result in a loss of
up to 1 stop.- For optimal results, use in good ambient light or with additional lighting is recommended. - Handling and image effect
:- The depth of field becomes extremely shallow, requiring
precise work.- Camera shake is more noticeable at close distances (tripod recommended).
- The image effect often appears particularly vivid, rich in detail and exciting.
Tip: For best results, we recommend a combination of a stable surface, Live View, manual focus and an optional focus magnifier.
Accessories & Extensions for Close-up Photography
With the right accessories, you can get the most out of your Canon extension rings – whether in everyday use, when travelling or for specific macro photography.
Recommendations from our Foto Siegl range:
- EF-EOS R Adapter: For use with Canon EOS R cameras
- Tripods and macro slides: For shake-free close-ups
- LED lights and macro flashes: For perfect lighting at close range
- Cleaning and care accessories: To keep your lens and sensor clear at all times
With these extras, your extension ring setup becomes even more versatile – and the results even more impressive.
Discover more genuine Canon accessories
Buy Canon extension rings online now at Foto Siegl
Whether it’s the EF12 II or EF25 II – with Canon extension rings, you can significantly expand your creative potential at close range. Instead of buying a separate macro lens, you can continue to make the most of your existing equipment.
At Foto Siegl, you benefit from a well-curated range, expert advice and attractive purchase benefits:
- Suitable accessories for macro photography available directly in-store
- Personalised expert advice from our photography specialists
- Europe-wide shipping and flexible financing options
- Canon promotions and deals for particularly great offers
Do you have questions about compatibility or how to use the product with your camera? Simply use our contact form – we’ll be happy to advise you personally.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs):
- What do Canon extension rings do?
Extension rings such as the EF12 II or EF25 II increase the distance between the lens and the camera. This reduces the minimum focusing distance. You can therefore get much closer to your subject and achieve macro effects without using a special macro lens. - Which lenses are compatible with Canon extension rings?
Canon extension rings are designed for EF and EF-S lenses. They work best with prime lenses and light telephoto zooms. Lenses with very short focal lengths or rear elements that protrude significantly inwards are less suitable. - Can I also use Canon extension rings on a mirrorless EOS R camera?
Yes, with the appropriate Canon EF-EOS R adapter, EF extension rings can be used without any problems on mirrorless EOS R cameras – including autofocus and aperture control, provided the lens in use supports these features. - Do extension rings affect image quality or exposure?
Extension rings do not contain any lenses, so they do not directly affect optical quality. However, the amount of light is reduced, so you should work with a slightly longer exposure time or additional lighting.