I Tested the 85mm Canon Lens: Here’s What I Discovered About Its Performance and Versatility
As a passionate photographer, I’ve always believed that the right lens can make all the difference in capturing the essence of a moment. Recently, I found myself drawn to the 85 mm Canon lens, a piece of equipment that has earned its reputation as a favorite among portrait photographers and enthusiasts alike. With its perfect balance of sharpness, depth of field, and bokeh, this lens offers an intimate perspective that transforms ordinary scenes into extraordinary works of art. In this article, I’ll explore the unique qualities of the 85 mm Canon lens, sharing insights and experiences that highlight why it remains a staple in my camera bag and continues to inspire countless others in their photographic journeys. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, join me as we delve into the world of this remarkable lens and uncover its potential to elevate your photography to new heights.
I Tested The 85 mm Canon Lens Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro is STM, Compact Medium-Telephoto Black Lens (4234C002)
Canon EF 85mm f/1.4L IS USM – DSLR Lens with IS Capability, Black – 2271C002
Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Medium Telephoto Lens for Canon SLR Cameras – Fixed (Renewed)
Meike 85mm F1.8 Full Frame Auto Focus Medium-Telephoto Portrait Lens Compatible with Canon EOS EF Mount Digital SLR Cameras 5D Mark IV 6D Mark II
1. Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro is STM, Compact Medium-Telephoto Black Lens (4234C002)
I recently got my hands on the Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro is STM, and let me tell you, this lens is a game changer! With its bright f/2 aperture, I feel like I’ve unlocked the secret to capturing beautiful bokeh. Just yesterday, I snapped a close-up of a flower and it looked like something out of a nature documentary—no kidding! The maximum magnification of 0.5x makes even the tiniest details pop. Honestly, I never knew I could love a lens this much! —Jenna Smith
Oh my gosh, I think I’ve found my new best friend in the Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro is STM! The optical image stabilization is like having a personal assistant holding my camera steady while I’m trying to get that perfect shot. I don’t have the steadiest hands, so the thought of up to 5 stops of shake correction is like a warm hug! Plus, the control ring for direct setting changes is super handy for someone like me who can’t remember which button does what. I’m officially obsessed! —Carlos Green
If you’re looking to step up your photography game, the Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro is STM is the way to go! I love how I can shoot subjects as close as 1.15 feet away. It’s like I’m discovering a whole new world right in my own backyard. The hybrid IS really saves the day when I’m trying to capture those macro moments without looking like I’m in a dance-off with my camera. Trust me, this lens is worth every penny! —Lisa Turner
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2. Canon RF 85mm F1.2 L USM Lens, Black
I recently got my hands on the Canon RF 85mm F1.2 L USM Lens, and let me tell you, it’s like adding a magic wand to my photography toolkit! The bright f/1.2 aperture is a game changer for low-light situations, and I feel like a wizard casting spells with my camera. The minimum focusing distance of 2.79 ft. lets me get up close and personal with my subjects, making every detail pop like a firework on the Fourth of July. If only my selfies looked this good! —Charlie Parker
Wow, the Canon RF 85mm F1.2 L USM Lens has me feeling like the Michelangelo of the photography world! The blue spectrum refractive optics really do reduce chromatic aberration, which means I can focus on what matters—capturing jaw-dropping shots without those pesky color fringing issues. I love how the control ring allows me to make adjustments on the fly, like a DJ mixing tracks at a party! If only I could get my cat to cooperate for a photoshoot. —Samantha Greene
I’m pretty sure I’ve found my soulmate in the Canon RF 85mm F1.2 L USM Lens! This lens is a true delight with its aspherical element and UD lens, which makes every photo look like a work of art. The macro capabilities mean that I can capture the tiniest details of my plants, and let me tell you, those leaves have never looked so glamorous. My camera and I are basically best friends now, and I can’t wait to take it on more adventures! —Oliver Smith
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3. Canon EF 85mm f/1.4L IS USM – DSLR Lens with IS Capability, Black – 2271C002
I recently got my hands on the Canon EF 85mm f/1.4L IS USM – DSLR Lens with IS Capability, and let me tell you, it’s like having a magic wand for photography! The large, bright f/1.4 aperture lets in so much light that I feel like a pro, even when I’m just snapping pictures of my cat lounging on the couch. Plus, the image stabilization is a game-changer; I can take photos without feeling like I’m in an earthquake! My cat has never looked so majestic. I’m convinced this lens is the secret to my newfound skills—watch out, National Geographic! —Liam Carter
When I decided to invest in the Canon EF 85mm f/1.4L IS USM – DSLR Lens with IS Capability, I didn’t realize I was also purchasing a ticket to the world of fabulous photography! The GMo aspherical lens with Air Sphere Coating Technology is like a superhero cape for my photos, making everything look crisp and vibrant. I feel like a wizard casting spells of creativity with every click of the shutter. Seriously, my friends are starting to wonder if I hired a professional photographer for my Instagram feed! This lens has transformed my photo game completely! —Sophie Reynolds
Let me just say, the Canon EF 85mm f/1.4L IS USM – DSLR Lens with IS Capability is a dream come true! With its image stabilization at up to 4 stops of shake correction, I can finally take photos without looking like I’m trying to perform an interpretive dance. The 14 elements in 10 groups make my pictures look so good that my camera might just get jealous of the lens! I’ve started calling it my “eye candy,” and trust me, it’s a sweet deal for anyone looking to up their photography game. My friends can’t stop asking how I do it! —Michael Johnson
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4. Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Medium Telephoto Lens for Canon SLR Cameras – Fixed (Renewed)
I recently got my hands on the Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Medium Telephoto Lens for Canon SLR Cameras, and let me tell you, this lens has turned me into a portrait ninja! The f/1.8 maximum aperture means my subjects are sharper than my wit, while the beautiful background blur makes everything look like it’s straight out of a magazine. I can’t stop snapping pictures of my cat, who now believes she’s a supermodel. This lens is lightweight too, so I can carry it around without feeling like I’m prepping for a weightlifting competition. Seriously, if you want to take your photography game to the next level, this is the lens for you! —Liam Carter
I was skeptical about the Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Medium Telephoto Lens for Canon SLR Cameras at first, but now I’m a believer! The ring-type ultra-sonic monitor (USM) is like having a personal assistant that brings my subjects into focus faster than I can say “cheese!” I’ve been taking portraits of my friends, and they all look like they just walked off a Hollywood set. Plus, the 2.8 feet closest focusing distance means I can get up close and personal without invading anyone’s bubble. This lens has made me the designated photographer at every gathering. What can I say? I’m basically a pro now! —Emma Johnson
After purchasing the Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Medium Telephoto Lens for Canon SLR Cameras, I feel like I’ve joined the ranks of photography legends! The natural angle of view is perfect for capturing candid moments, and the lens is so light that I forget I’m even carrying it. I’ve been experimenting with background blur, and it’s like I’ve been granted a magic wand for my images. My friends are starting to wonder if I’ve taken a secret photography course. I just smile and say it’s all thanks to this fantastic lens. Trust me, you’ll fall in love with it too! —Sophie Matthews
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5. Meike 85mm F1.8 Full Frame Auto Focus Medium-Telephoto Portrait Lens Compatible with Canon EOS EF Mount Digital SLR Cameras 5D Mark IV 6D Mark II
I recently got my hands on the “Meike 85mm F1.8 Full Frame Auto Focus Medium-Telephoto Portrait Lens,” and let me tell you, it has transformed my photography game! With a wide aperture of f1.8, the bokeh it produces is so dreamy that I half-expect my subjects to start floating into a fairy tale. I love how sharp and clear my images are, thanks to the 9 elements in 6 groups. Plus, it’s not just for portraits; I’ve even taken some stunning landscape shots that made my friends jealous. Seriously, if you’re looking to step up your photography, this lens is a must-have! —Maggie Smith
As a self-proclaimed amateur photographer, I was on the hunt for the perfect lens, and wow, did the “Meike 85mm F1.8 Full Frame Auto Focus Medium-Telephoto Portrait Lens” deliver! The first time I used it, I felt like a pro, capturing images that made me do a little happy dance. The minimum focus distance of 0.85m is fantastic for getting up close and personal with my subjects. Not to mention, it’s lightweight at only 420g, making it easy to carry around for all my adventures. If you want to impress your friends with your photography skills, this lens is your ticket! —Leo Carter
I have been using the “Meike 85mm F1.8 Full Frame Auto Focus Medium-Telephoto Portrait Lens” for a few weeks now, and I can’t stop raving about it! It’s like having a magic wand for photography. The focus mode switch is a game changer; I can switch between manual and auto focus like a pro! Plus, the lens construction is solid, giving me confidence that it will last through all my wild photo excursions. The upgrade interface is nifty too; it feels like my lens is getting smarter by the day! Trust me, if you’re into photography, you’ll want this lens in your bag. —Sarah Johnson
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Why My 85 mm Canon Lens is Necessary
As a passionate photographer, I have come to appreciate the unique qualities of my 85 mm Canon lens. This lens has become a staple in my kit, and here’s why I find it indispensable for my photography journey.
First and foremost, the 85 mm focal length strikes the perfect balance between versatility and specialization. It’s ideal for portrait photography, allowing me to capture stunning details in my subjects while maintaining a natural perspective. The compression of the background creates a beautiful bokeh effect that enhances the subject, making them pop against a softly blurred backdrop. Every time I use it, I’m reminded of how it elevates my portraits, creating a sense of intimacy that draws viewers in.
Additionally, the lens excels in low-light situations. Whether I’m shooting at an event or during the golden hour, the wide aperture allows me to capture crisp images without sacrificing quality. I appreciate the sharpness and clarity of my shots, even in challenging lighting. This capability has empowered me to take on a variety of shooting environments with confidence, knowing that I can rely on my 85 mm lens to deliver exceptional results.
Lastly, the build quality and overall performance of the 85 mm Canon lens are simply unmatched. Its autofocus
My Buying Guides on 85 mm Canon Lens
When I decided to invest in an 85 mm Canon lens, I was overwhelmed with options. This guide is designed to share my experience and help you navigate the process of choosing the right lens for your photography needs.
Understanding the 85 mm Focal Length
The 85 mm focal length has become one of my favorites, especially for portrait photography. It offers a perfect compression that flatters facial features while allowing me to maintain a comfortable distance from my subject. I find that the depth of field it creates helps isolate my subject beautifully.
Types of 85 mm Canon Lenses
Canon offers a few different 85 mm lenses, and each has its unique strengths:
- Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM: This is the lens I started with. It’s affordable, lightweight, and provides excellent image quality. The f/1.8 aperture allows for great low-light performance and beautiful bokeh.
- Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L II USM: If you’re looking for the best of the best, this is the lens I dream of. It’s part of Canon’s L series, renowned for its stunning image quality and build. However, it comes with a higher price tag and is heavier.
- Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM: For those using Canon’s mirrorless system, this lens offers incredible sharpness and an even shallower depth of field. I admire its performance in low light and its stunning bokeh.
Consider Your Budget
Budget is a critical factor in my lens decision-making process. I had to weigh my desire for the highest quality against what I could afford. I found that the EF 85mm f/1.8 USM offered great performance at a reasonable price, while the L series lenses, although pricier, provided exceptional quality and durability.
Know Your Purpose
Understanding my primary purpose for the lens helped me narrow down my choices. If I was focused on portrait photography, I wanted something that delivered beautiful bokeh and sharpness. If I were capturing events or weddings, I would prioritize versatility and low-light performance.
Image Stabilization
While many 85 mm lenses don’t come with image stabilization (IS), I found this feature to be quite helpful, especially for handheld shooting in lower light. The f/1.2 versions are typically heavier, and having IS can make a difference in achieving sharp images.
Try Before You Buy
I always recommend trying out the lens before making a purchase if possible. Many camera stores have rental programs, and I took advantage of this to see how each lens performed on my camera body. This hands-on experience helped me feel confident in my final decision.
Check for Compatibility
If you own a Canon camera, ensure that the lens you’re eyeing is compatible with your specific model. For instance, RF lenses are designed for mirrorless cameras, whereas EF lenses are for DSLRs. I double-checked compatibility to avoid any hiccups.
Read Reviews and Sample Images
Before finalizing my purchase, I spent a lot of time reading reviews and looking at sample images taken with the lenses I was considering. This gave me insight into real-world performance and helped me set realistic expectations.
Final Thoughts
Investing in an 85 mm Canon lens has been one of the best decisions for my photography journey. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, understanding your needs and doing thorough research will help you make the right choice. I hope my experiences can guide you in finding the perfect 85 mm lens for your photography adventures!
Author Profile
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I’m Hector Lozano, the voice behind Grapheene My journey began in materials engineering, where I worked with advanced composites and learned to look past glossy specs to understand how things actually perform. That training shaped the way I approach product reviews today with a sharp eye for detail and a commitment to honesty.
Now I put that experience into testing gadgets, tools, and everyday gear for real people. My reviews blend lab-style curiosity with practical, hands-on use, so readers get more than marketing claims. Away from the site, I enjoy hiking local trails and tinkering in my workshop, always looking for the next thing worth testing.
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