Before You Buy - Canon RF 85mm f1.2 L USM

May 30

Thinking about buying the Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM? It’s a serious investment, but after using this lens extensively, I can confidently say it’s one of Canon’s most impressive RF prime lenses to date, and it can absolutely elevate your portrait portfolio. In this video, I share my hands-on experience and give you a detailed, real-world review of the RF 85mm f1.2 L, answering the most common questions people have before buying it.

I compare it to the older Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L II, a legendary lens in its own right, and explain how the new RF version improves on it in key areas like autofocus speed, reliability, and optical performance. One of the biggest upgrades is Canon’s BR (Blue Spectrum Refractive) coating, which dramatically reduces chromatic aberration and improves clarity, especially when paired with a high-resolution sensor like the Canon EOS R5 or EOS R5 Mark II.

The sharpness of this lens is next-level, to the point where some might find it almost too sharp for flattering portraits straight out of camera. But with some post-processing or a mist filter (like a Black Pro-Mist), you can easily dial that in to taste. If you're a portrait photographer, Canon RF shooter, or simply looking for the best RF lens for portraits, this video will give you a clear sense of whether the Canon RF 85mm f1.2L USM is right for your kit.

Whether you're wondering if the lens is worth the price, how it compares to other Canon portrait lenses, or if it's too sharp for your style, this video covers everything you need to know, before you buy.

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