Offering a superior optical performance thanks to its advance lens design and the use of ground-breaking Canon optics, the Canon RF 85mm F1.2 L USM RF Lens is the ultimate portrait lens for next generation imaging. Portraits Use shallow focus and exceptional sharpness to bring new detail and dimension to portraits thanks to exceptional optical engineering, advanced lens coatings and RF mount technology. The Canon RF 85mm F1.2 is the ideal short telephoto focal length for flattering portraits, producing elegant and detailed results with a pleasing perspective and no distortion. Street Photography Stay discreet and in control on the street thanks to rapid focusing from a high performance USM motor that ensures the lens locks onto a subject, so you’ll never miss a moment. Low Light Keep on shooting long after the sun goes down thanks to a fast and wide f/1.2 maximum aperture that captures every detail with superb edge to edge sharpness. With a fast F1.2 aperture, the lens is superb in low light offering incredible sharpness and creative expression with pleasing bokeh and no loss of image quality. The lens employs Blue Spectrum Refractive (BR) optics which negate colour aberrations while a ground aspheric lens element eliminates spherical aberrations caused by a large maximum aperture. The build quality redefines L-series quality with weather-sealing and fluorine coatings on the front and rear elements to guard against water, dust and scratches. Thanks to the fast speed of the RF mount, the Canon RF 85mm F1.2 is fast to lock onto a subject while the Lens Control Ring provides additional control over settings.
Offering a superior optical performance thanks to its advance lens design and the use of ground-breaking Canon optics, the Canon RF 85mm F1.2 L USM RF Lens is the ultimate portrait lens for next generation imaging. Portraits Use shallow focus and exceptional sharpness to bring new detail and dimension to portraits thanks to exceptional optical engineering, advanced lens coatings and RF mount technology. The Canon RF 85mm F1.2 is the ideal short telephoto focal length for flattering portraits, producing elegant and detailed results with a pleasing perspective and no distortion. Street Photography Stay discreet and in control on the street thanks to rapid focusing from a high performance USM motor that ensures the lens locks onto a subject, so you’ll never miss a moment. Low Light Keep on shooting long after the sun goes down thanks to a fast and wide f/1.2 maximum aperture that captures every detail with superb edge to edge sharpness. With a fast F1.2 aperture, the lens is superb in low light offering incredible sharpness and creative expression with pleasing bokeh and no loss of image quality. The lens employs Blue Spectrum Refractive (BR) optics which negate colour aberrations while a ground aspheric lens element eliminates spherical aberrations caused by a large maximum aperture. The build quality redefines L-series quality with weather-sealing and fluorine coatings on the front and rear elements to guard against water, dust and scratches. Thanks to the fast speed of the RF mount, the Canon RF 85mm F1.2 is fast to lock onto a subject while the Lens Control Ring provides additional control over settings.
Offering a superior optical performance thanks to its advance lens design and the use of ground-breaking Canon optics, the Canon RF 85mm F1.2 L USM RF Lens is the ultimate portrait lens for next generation imaging. Portraits Use shallow focus and exceptional sharpness to bring new detail and dimension to portraits thanks to exceptional optical engineering, advanced lens coatings and RF mount technology. The Canon RF 85mm F1.2 is the ideal short telephoto focal length for flattering portraits, producing elegant and detailed results with a pleasing perspective and no distortion. Street Photography Stay discreet and in control on the street thanks to rapid focusing from a high performance USM motor that ensures the lens locks onto a subject, so you’ll never miss a moment. Low Light Keep on shooting long after the sun goes down thanks to a fast and wide f/1.2 maximum aperture that captures every detail with superb edge to edge sharpness. With a fast F1.2 aperture, the lens is superb in low light offering incredible sharpness and creative expression with pleasing bokeh and no loss of image quality. The lens employs Blue Spectrum Refractive (BR) optics which negate colour aberrations while a ground aspheric lens element eliminates spherical aberrations caused by a large maximum aperture. The build quality redefines L-series quality with weather-sealing and fluorine coatings on the front and rear elements to guard against water, dust and scratches. Thanks to the fast speed of the RF mount, the Canon RF 85mm F1.2 is fast to lock onto a subject while the Lens Control Ring provides additional control over settings.
Offering a superior optical performance thanks to its advance lens design and the use of ground-breaking Canon optics, the Canon RF 85mm F1.2 L USM RF Lens is the ultimate portrait lens for next generation imaging. Portraits Use shallow focus and exceptional sharpness to bring new detail and dimension to portraits thanks to exceptional optical engineering, advanced lens coatings and RF mount technology. The Canon RF 85mm F1.2 is the ideal short telephoto focal length for flattering portraits, producing elegant and detailed results with a pleasing perspective and no distortion. Street Photography Stay discreet and in control on the street thanks to rapid focusing from a high performance USM motor that ensures the lens locks onto a subject, so you’ll never miss a moment. Low Light Keep on shooting long after the sun goes down thanks to a fast and wide f/1.2 maximum aperture that captures every detail with superb edge to edge sharpness. With a fast F1.2 aperture, the lens is superb in low light offering incredible sharpness and creative expression with pleasing bokeh and no loss of image quality. The lens employs Blue Spectrum Refractive (BR) optics which negate colour aberrations while a ground aspheric lens element eliminates spherical aberrations caused by a large maximum aperture. The build quality redefines L-series quality with weather-sealing and fluorine coatings on the front and rear elements to guard against water, dust and scratches. Thanks to the fast speed of the RF mount, the Canon RF 85mm F1.2 is fast to lock onto a subject while the Lens Control Ring provides additional control over settings.
Last updated at 06/06/2026 22:19:15
Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM Lens
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Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM F1.2 Mirrorless Lens for EOS R RP
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Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM DS Lens
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Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM DS Lens
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Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM lens
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Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM Lens
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Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM Lens
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Canon EOS R RF 85mm F1.2L USM Defocus Smoothing
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Canon Rf 85mm F/1.2l Usm Lens
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originally posted on canon.com
All I smell when I take this lens out is money. Before and during the purchase all I thought about was the cost. But now that I own it, all I think about is how much money this beauty is bringing in. Before switching to mirrorless I was more partial to the EF 50mm f1.2 and EF 135mm f2. Now I have found my favorite RF lens. Yes, I know the bokeh is beautiful. But that attribute is really second to the beautiful rendering, sharpness and accurate focus on my R5. Some people whine about the slow focusing. But in reality, it is not that slow. Compared to the EF 85mm f1.2L II it is like a hare passing the turtle. Sure it's not the best stop action sports lens but more useful that it's older counterpart. Oh yeah, that older counterpart was also not sharp, had bad CA and ... MoreAll I smell when I take this lens out is money. Before and during the purchase all I thought about was the cost. But now that I own it, all I think about is how much money this beauty is bringing in. Before switching to mirrorless I was more partial to the EF 50mm f1.2 and EF 135mm f2. Now I have found my favorite RF lens. Yes, I know the bokeh is beautiful. But that attribute is really second to the beautiful rendering, sharpness and accurate focus on my R5. Some people whine about the slow focusing. But in reality, it is not that slow. Compared to the EF 85mm f1.2L II it is like a hare passing the turtle. Sure it's not the best stop action sports lens but more useful that it's older counterpart. Oh yeah, that older counterpart was also not sharp, had bad CA and corner fall off. My copy has already paid for itself and has put enough in the coffers to purchase the RF 35mm f1.2 when it arrives. A fir the weight. It is offset to my by the light weight of the R5 compared to the 1DX II i parted with when I switched.
originally posted on bhphotovideo.com
First, I never thought I'd actually own this lens due to the combo of price and myself rarely shooting portraits. Despite having a R5 I didn't think I'd ever be able to justify the purchase even when absolutely everyone that uses it raves about it. Well.. I stumbled across a mint condition, second hand one for under $2000.. and it didn't take long to talk myself into it... Boy am I glad I did! All the hype, and amazing reviews are warranted. I've never used a lens that can make something as simple as a photo outside our front door look so freaking amazing. (Once I figure out how to attach the photo I will) If you have the chance and the $ to buy this lens stop reading and go buy it...now! It's incredible. I shoot primarily macro and landscape and I've honestly ... MoreFirst, I never thought I'd actually own this lens due to the combo of price and myself rarely shooting portraits. Despite having a R5 I didn't think I'd ever be able to justify the purchase even when absolutely everyone that uses it raves about it. Well.. I stumbled across a mint condition, second hand one for under $2000.. and it didn't take long to talk myself into it... Boy am I glad I did! All the hype, and amazing reviews are warranted. I've never used a lens that can make something as simple as a photo outside our front door look so freaking amazing. (Once I figure out how to attach the photo I will) If you have the chance and the $ to buy this lens stop reading and go buy it...now! It's incredible. I shoot primarily macro and landscape and I've honestly considered adding portraits and weddings JUST TO BE ABLE TO USE THIS MORE!! I actually get a little sad when I take it off the R5 to put on any other lens. Simply perfection 3
originally posted on bhphotovideo.com
This is my first time using a f1.2 lens.After renting it out for a test run- I decided to pull the trigger.I wanted a bright, generalist lens for my R5 and I decided that this fit the bill.I was aware how razor thin the DoF would be, but working with it hasbeen both challenging and rewarding. You really have to be mindfulwhen you're shooting at such narrow apertures. Many, like me, bought this lens because it is very sharp wide open (and it is) but I always have to keep in mind that it's okay to stop down- especially when shooting more than one subject during events.The lens is heavy and can really weigh on your arms after a few hours of active use- that's no fault of the lens, just means that I should start working out :)The size of this lens is ... MoreThis is my first time using a f1.2 lens.After renting it out for a test run- I decided to pull the trigger.I wanted a bright, generalist lens for my R5 and I decided that this fit the bill.I was aware how razor thin the DoF would be, but working with it hasbeen both challenging and rewarding. You really have to be mindfulwhen you're shooting at such narrow apertures. Many, like me, bought this lens because it is very sharp wide open (and it is) but I always have to keep in mind that it's okay to stop down- especially when shooting more than one subject during events.The lens is heavy and can really weigh on your arms after a few hours of active use- that's no fault of the lens, just means that I should start working out :)The size of this lens is definitely a step above typical f1.4/f1.8 primes and it definitely is something I considered. In my opinion, it's fine for me- it's size is pretty much in league with typical 24-70 f2.8 zooms. I do plan for this to be my primary travel lens once things open back up (paired with a 70-200 f4 and alongside a Ricoh GR3).That being said- I'll probably stick to my GR3 for hiking :)What I'm really looking forward to is taking this lens out to the city for some street shooting and environmental portraits.If I had to nitpick a negative- it would be that the focusing speed isn't quite as fast as on my EF f4 L zooms (the focus limiter switch can alleviate this).
| Lens system | |
| Closest focusing distance | 0.85 m |
| Number of diaphragm blades | 9 |
| Viewing angle, horizontal | 24° |
| Viewing angle, vertical | 16° |
Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM Lens
Affiliate Disclosure: We may receive a small commission for purchases made through this link at no extra cost to you. This helps support our site. Thank you!
Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM F1.2 Mirrorless Lens for EOS R RP
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Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM Lens
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Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM DS Lens
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Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM DS Lens
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All I smell when I take this lens out is money. Before and during the purchase all I thought about was the cost. But now that I own it, all I think about is how much money this beauty is bringing in. Before switching to mirrorless I was more partial to the EF 50mm f1.2 and EF 135mm f2. Now I have found my favorite RF lens. Yes, I know the bokeh is beautiful. But that attribute is really second to the beautiful rendering, sharpness and accurate focus on my R5. Some people whine about the slow focusing. But in reality, it is not that slow. Compared to the EF 85mm f1.2L II it is like a hare passing the turtle. Sure it's not the best stop action sports lens but more useful that it's older counterpart. Oh yeah, that older counterpart was also not sharp, had bad CA and ... MoreAll I smell when I take this lens out is money. Before and during the purchase all I thought about was the cost. But now that I own it, all I think about is how much money this beauty is bringing in. Before switching to mirrorless I was more partial to the EF 50mm f1.2 and EF 135mm f2. Now I have found my favorite RF lens. Yes, I know the bokeh is beautiful. But that attribute is really second to the beautiful rendering, sharpness and accurate focus on my R5. Some people whine about the slow focusing. But in reality, it is not that slow. Compared to the EF 85mm f1.2L II it is like a hare passing the turtle. Sure it's not the best stop action sports lens but more useful that it's older counterpart. Oh yeah, that older counterpart was also not sharp, had bad CA and corner fall off. My copy has already paid for itself and has put enough in the coffers to purchase the RF 35mm f1.2 when it arrives. A fir the weight. It is offset to my by the light weight of the R5 compared to the 1DX II i parted with when I switched.
First, I never thought I'd actually own this lens due to the combo of price and myself rarely shooting portraits. Despite having a R5 I didn't think I'd ever be able to justify the purchase even when absolutely everyone that uses it raves about it. Well.. I stumbled across a mint condition, second hand one for under $2000.. and it didn't take long to talk myself into it... Boy am I glad I did! All the hype, and amazing reviews are warranted. I've never used a lens that can make something as simple as a photo outside our front door look so freaking amazing. (Once I figure out how to attach the photo I will) If you have the chance and the $ to buy this lens stop reading and go buy it...now! It's incredible. I shoot primarily macro and landscape and I've honestly ... MoreFirst, I never thought I'd actually own this lens due to the combo of price and myself rarely shooting portraits. Despite having a R5 I didn't think I'd ever be able to justify the purchase even when absolutely everyone that uses it raves about it. Well.. I stumbled across a mint condition, second hand one for under $2000.. and it didn't take long to talk myself into it... Boy am I glad I did! All the hype, and amazing reviews are warranted. I've never used a lens that can make something as simple as a photo outside our front door look so freaking amazing. (Once I figure out how to attach the photo I will) If you have the chance and the $ to buy this lens stop reading and go buy it...now! It's incredible. I shoot primarily macro and landscape and I've honestly considered adding portraits and weddings JUST TO BE ABLE TO USE THIS MORE!! I actually get a little sad when I take it off the R5 to put on any other lens. Simply perfection 3
This is my first time using a f1.2 lens.After renting it out for a test run- I decided to pull the trigger.I wanted a bright, generalist lens for my R5 and I decided that this fit the bill.I was aware how razor thin the DoF would be, but working with it hasbeen both challenging and rewarding. You really have to be mindfulwhen you're shooting at such narrow apertures. Many, like me, bought this lens because it is very sharp wide open (and it is) but I always have to keep in mind that it's okay to stop down- especially when shooting more than one subject during events.The lens is heavy and can really weigh on your arms after a few hours of active use- that's no fault of the lens, just means that I should start working out :)The size of this lens is ... MoreThis is my first time using a f1.2 lens.After renting it out for a test run- I decided to pull the trigger.I wanted a bright, generalist lens for my R5 and I decided that this fit the bill.I was aware how razor thin the DoF would be, but working with it hasbeen both challenging and rewarding. You really have to be mindfulwhen you're shooting at such narrow apertures. Many, like me, bought this lens because it is very sharp wide open (and it is) but I always have to keep in mind that it's okay to stop down- especially when shooting more than one subject during events.The lens is heavy and can really weigh on your arms after a few hours of active use- that's no fault of the lens, just means that I should start working out :)The size of this lens is definitely a step above typical f1.4/f1.8 primes and it definitely is something I considered. In my opinion, it's fine for me- it's size is pretty much in league with typical 24-70 f2.8 zooms. I do plan for this to be my primary travel lens once things open back up (paired with a 70-200 f4 and alongside a Ricoh GR3).That being said- I'll probably stick to my GR3 for hiking :)What I'm really looking forward to is taking this lens out to the city for some street shooting and environmental portraits.If I had to nitpick a negative- it would be that the focusing speed isn't quite as fast as on my EF f4 L zooms (the focus limiter switch can alleviate this).
The best way to describe this lens is quality at it's best it was the last lens I purchased in a line of lenses but it should have been the first. The price was what was holding me back, but now I understand, the performance of this lens is superb and in retrospect should have been an initial purchase, if you are hesitant, don't be, you will NOT regret it, this lens will quickly pay itself off. I understand each person's situation might be different but these are my pros and cons: -Pros the 1.2 makes a huge difference in low light situations, I'm a hybrid shooter (Video/Photography) and this works beautifully in both worlds. The images are crisp with cinematic depth of field in both Photo and video, it produces wonderful Bokeh. if you're a portrait photographer or ... MoreThe best way to describe this lens is quality at it's best it was the last lens I purchased in a line of lenses but it should have been the first. The price was what was holding me back, but now I understand, the performance of this lens is superb and in retrospect should have been an initial purchase, if you are hesitant, don't be, you will NOT regret it, this lens will quickly pay itself off. I understand each person's situation might be different but these are my pros and cons: -Pros the 1.2 makes a huge difference in low light situations, I'm a hybrid shooter (Video/Photography) and this works beautifully in both worlds. The images are crisp with cinematic depth of field in both Photo and video, it produces wonderful Bokeh. if you're a portrait photographer or shoot products, this lens is a definite must have more so for portraits for the reasons I mentioned above. Cons: they're few so far, The lens itself is heavier than expected which might be an issue if you're shooting hand held for extended periods. and of course the price for me was high, but as I mentioned before, the quality of the images in the end will supersede the initial investment by a long shot. so int the end absolutely worth it.
As a long time Canon dslr shooter, I have a tremendous amount of ef glass. I've slowly started to dip my toes into rf glass, having rented them and used loaner rf lenses on recent shoots. I mostly shoot sports and events. My standard set up for events is 2 bodies with a 70-200 2.8 living on one, and switching between a 24-70 2.8 and a 14mm ii on the other. I rented this lens for a recent 5 day job for a new client. I thought I would use it sparingly to get some wow shots to impress them. I ended up putting my ef 70-200 2.8 away after the first day, and having this 85 live on one of my camera bodies. It's an absolutely excellent lens. I shot it at 1.2 essentially the entire time I used it and it rarely if ever missed focus. Paired with my r5 I just cropped in on ... MoreAs a long time Canon dslr shooter, I have a tremendous amount of ef glass. I've slowly started to dip my toes into rf glass, having rented them and used loaner rf lenses on recent shoots. I mostly shoot sports and events. My standard set up for events is 2 bodies with a 70-200 2.8 living on one, and switching between a 24-70 2.8 and a 14mm ii on the other. I rented this lens for a recent 5 day job for a new client. I thought I would use it sparingly to get some wow shots to impress them. I ended up putting my ef 70-200 2.8 away after the first day, and having this 85 live on one of my camera bodies. It's an absolutely excellent lens. I shot it at 1.2 essentially the entire time I used it and it rarely if ever missed focus. Paired with my r5 I just cropped in on shots I wanted tighter composition on. The image quality is unlike any other canon lens I've used before. I used to hold my 135 f2 as the king of sharpness but it pales in comparison to this. The only reason I haven't bought this lens is because at the same price point I will have to get the rf 70-200 because I need the versality when shooting sports. If I was a only wedding/ event photographer this lens would absolutely be a must have.
I already have the EF 85 1.2 and for the longest time I thought the lens was superfluous. At a wedding however I was somewhat frustrated with the EF version. IN LOW LIGHT it had trouble finding the focus and seemed sluggish while the motor churned away. On Black Friday this year I took the plunge and got the RF. One shot and I was blown away. The speed, accuracy and sharpness was out of this world. Any doubts I had were swept away. One shot alone justified the price tag. I also picked up the 50 1.2 RF. Same story again. The EF can't compete with it. The 85 is the more magical of the two, but the 50 is probably more versatile. Both lenses are well worth every penny. The pictures speak for themselves. I felt like a precision sniper. Rarely did I miss a shot. The Bokeh ... MoreI already have the EF 85 1.2 and for the longest time I thought the lens was superfluous. At a wedding however I was somewhat frustrated with the EF version. IN LOW LIGHT it had trouble finding the focus and seemed sluggish while the motor churned away. On Black Friday this year I took the plunge and got the RF. One shot and I was blown away. The speed, accuracy and sharpness was out of this world. Any doubts I had were swept away. One shot alone justified the price tag. I also picked up the 50 1.2 RF. Same story again. The EF can't compete with it. The 85 is the more magical of the two, but the 50 is probably more versatile. Both lenses are well worth every penny. The pictures speak for themselves. I felt like a precision sniper. Rarely did I miss a shot. The Bokeh was amazing. I got the regular 85 as I did t want to lose a stop of light for a more rounded out bokeh. Glad I did. Fast and beautiful.
I bought the Canon R5, and tried to figure out the best lens to complement it in view of the array of EF lenses already in my possession. While there are quite a few RF lenses that are sharper than my EF lenses, the EFs are still good lenses and I did not want to make them redundant. So, what to buy? One lens missing from my arsenal was an 85 mm portrait lens for sharp images and maybe even landscapes. So, the RF 85 mm lens was a good choice in t his respect and looked likely to satisfy my craving for sharp images of people. Boy oh boy, is this lens sharp. I fell in love with it with my first images. Eyelashes are beautifully resolved, reflections in eyes are sharp and bright, and the verisimilitude of flesh tones just wonderful. This is now my absolute favorite ... MoreI bought the Canon R5, and tried to figure out the best lens to complement it in view of the array of EF lenses already in my possession. While there are quite a few RF lenses that are sharper than my EF lenses, the EFs are still good lenses and I did not want to make them redundant. So, what to buy? One lens missing from my arsenal was an 85 mm portrait lens for sharp images and maybe even landscapes. So, the RF 85 mm lens was a good choice in t his respect and looked likely to satisfy my craving for sharp images of people. Boy oh boy, is this lens sharp. I fell in love with it with my first images. Eyelashes are beautifully resolved, reflections in eyes are sharp and bright, and the verisimilitude of flesh tones just wonderful. This is now my absolute favorite lens. I Just can't put it down. Its sharper than anything I have. Its advantages in image quality are so great that the disadvantages of cost and weight totally diminish in importance. Certainly, I am enjoying testing my focusing ability at F1.2, which is a challenge due to the inevitable small depth of field, but the background is so beautiful in such images that it is well worth the effort for the photograph. If you think you might like this lens, do not hesitate. It worth every penny, and is a total delight to use.
*Owned for just about a month now will update around the 6 month mark to see if it holds up to my first impressions.This lens is absolutely everything you are looking for in a 85mm 1.2.First the speed at which it will focus is a major upgrade from the EF; this focus speed was one of the major drawbacks of the EF.Adding to the speed it is sharp starting at F1.2, I know almost all of Canon's glass has been great starting at wide open for the professional grade RF glass, but this was just a shock to me for a F1.2. You can shoot wide open almost all the time and if you buying this lens odds are that's why you want it.Three things to consider before buying;1:let's get to the elephant in the room, $2,699.99 for the normal model or $2,999.99 for the DS model, ... More*Owned for just about a month now will update around the 6 month mark to see if it holds up to my first impressions.This lens is absolutely everything you are looking for in a 85mm 1.2.First the speed at which it will focus is a major upgrade from the EF; this focus speed was one of the major drawbacks of the EF.Adding to the speed it is sharp starting at F1.2, I know almost all of Canon's glass has been great starting at wide open for the professional grade RF glass, but this was just a shock to me for a F1.2. You can shoot wide open almost all the time and if you buying this lens odds are that's why you want it.Three things to consider before buying;1:let's get to the elephant in the room, $2,699.99 for the normal model or $2,999.99 for the DS model, that price is something I would say. You absolutely do not need this if you are not shooting professionally, I want to emphasize this, Canon sells lots of glass I would recommend even enthusiasts or a novice to purchase such as the 24-70 F.2.8. you will get so much use from a lens like that, that the price is worth it. The RF 85mm 1.2 while possibly the best piece of glass ever made at 85mm by any lens producer has a price tag I just cannot recommend unless you are using it for weddings or need a dedicated portrait lens that you make a fair amount of money off of.2: it is noisy, the motors inside do make sound that can be heard, I have used this lens in a church a couple of times now, and I have to admit the focus motors make me feel uncomfortable at times.3: this is not an issue for me because size does not matter so long as you can handle it and typically you won't be shooting for long periods of time with a lens like this, or at least I don't. I generally take the shots that I planned with this one and it goes back in the bag for the remainder of time. But I have loaned it out twice now, and one of the photographers complained about it's size and weight. It was a woman who was on the smaller size, she said after shooting about an hour it was getting a bit cumbersome. She did note it was about the same as shooting with the EF version that she owns and uses more regularly. So while I can't imagine this being the deciding factor between an EF or RF purchase its something to consider nevertheless.
I had a 5D Mark IV that I used primarily for nightscapes / street photography for years. I got the EF f/1.2 50mm to shoot with and instantly fell in love with it. The buttery textures, delightful bokeh, gigantic aperture... I loved pretty much everything about it.I expected the RF f/1.2 50mm to be pretty much the same, but it absolutely blew me out of the water. It had all the best parts of the EF 1.2 but the biggest difference is that it's TACK sharp at f1.2. I was stunned at the difference in quality. This lens is an absolute beast and when paired with my R5's AF systems, it's a match made in heaven. Sooooo worth the $$I haven't had the chance to take it out for night shots yet, but I attached a picture I took at max aperture at an aquarium the other day.
I have long since loved shooting at 50mm; it is one of the most versatile focal lengths in my humble opinion. You can shoot stunning portraits with the most beautiful, dreamy backgrounds with this lens. The natural perspective coupled with its beautiful rendering makes such a pleasant image every time, and the color rendering and contrast of this lens is exceptional. And last, but certainly no least, the sharpness of this lens is just incredible. You will not be disappointed with the images produced with this glass on your R series camera.All of this amazing image quality doesn't come without a cost however-not just the literal jaw-dropping cost of the lens itself-but other costs that you will learn to live with if you choose to keep this lens. The lens is a ... MoreI have long since loved shooting at 50mm; it is one of the most versatile focal lengths in my humble opinion. You can shoot stunning portraits with the most beautiful, dreamy backgrounds with this lens. The natural perspective coupled with its beautiful rendering makes such a pleasant image every time, and the color rendering and contrast of this lens is exceptional. And last, but certainly no least, the sharpness of this lens is just incredible. You will not be disappointed with the images produced with this glass on your R series camera.All of this amazing image quality doesn't come without a cost however-not just the literal jaw-dropping cost of the lens itself-but other costs that you will learn to live with if you choose to keep this lens. The lens is a beast. It's massive, weighing in just over 2 lbs. When I first pulled it out of the box, I was a little disappointed, rather than awed, with the size and weight. I put it on my camera and immediately questioned whether or not I could live with the size and weight. If you're looking for a discrete lens, this is definitely not it. I also own the RF 50mm 1.8, which ways less than a feather next to this lens. However, after shooting on it for a few days, I grew to like the weight and balance on my R6. It's still really heavy, but not in a way that takes the joy out of shooting with this lens. It really is a joy, and as you start seeing your images, the weight quickly becomes an afterthought.Another drawback, for me at least, is the way the front element moves forward and backwards inside the barrel when focusing. I know that the lens is weather resistant, however, I still wouldn't feel comfortable shooting with this lens on a beach, for example, because I feel sand would inevitably get caught inside the barrel. I wish Canon would have opted for a fixed front element, such as the Sony 50mm GM. For this reason, I purchased a quality B+W UV protective filter to fix on the front of the lens. Using a quality element in the front, you won't see any degradation in image quality, and for me at least, it gives me more peace of mind knowing my lens is further protected.Lastly, it's not a obnoxiously loud focusing lens, but it does make a noticeable noise when focusing all of that glass. So for video, you're definitely going to have to find a work around for that.All in all, I still stand by my headline that this lens is a masterpiece. The images will speak for themselves and you will not be disappointed, if you can live with the small list of drawbacks I've shared. Which in my case, I can.
| Lens system | |
| Closest focusing distance | 0.85 m |
| Number of diaphragm blades | 9 |
| Viewing angle, horizontal | 24° |
| Viewing angle, vertical | 16° |
