Why the Canon EF 85mm f/1.2 is My Go-To Lens for Stunning Portraits: A Photographer’s Personal Experience

As a passionate photographer, I’ve always believed that the right lens can transform an ordinary moment into something extraordinary. Among the myriad of options available, the Canon EF 85mm f/1.2 stands out as a true gem in the world of portrait photography. Its ability to create stunning depth of field, coupled with a breathtaking bokeh, allows me to capture subjects in a way that feels both intimate and striking. This lens not only enhances the beauty of my subjects but also empowers me to express my artistic vision with clarity and precision. In this article, I’ll delve into the remarkable features and performance of the Canon EF 85mm f/1.2, sharing why it remains a favorite in my camera bag and how it can elevate your own photography journey.

I Tried Out The Canon Ef 85Mm 1.2 And Here Are My Honest Recommendations

1. Canon EF 85mm f1.2L II USM Lens for Canon DSLR Cameras – Fixed (Renewed)

As a photography enthusiast, I can’t help but share my excitement about the Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L II USM Lens for Canon DSLR Cameras. This fixed lens is a testament to Canon’s commitment to excellence in optics, especially within their L-series range, which is renowned for its professional-grade quality. If you’re looking to elevate your photography game, this lens is a must-have. Not only does it embody precision-engineered optics, but it also offers features that can significantly enhance your shooting experience.

One of the standout features of this lens is its virtually circular aperture diaphragm. This design allows for out-of-focus regions to exhibit a softer and more uniform feel, which is essential for portrait photography. Imagine capturing your subject with sharp details while the background melts away into a dreamy bokeh effect. This characteristic is crucial for creating stunning portraits that draw the viewer’s attention directly to the subject, making your images pop with professional quality.

The lens also boasts exceptional color accuracy and contrast, thanks to its advanced Spectra coatings. These coatings work to minimize flare and ghosting, which can often mar the quality of photographs taken in challenging lighting conditions. As someone who frequently shoots in varied environments, I appreciate how this feature ensures that my images maintain their integrity, regardless of the lighting. Whether I’m shooting in bright sunlight or low-light conditions, I can trust that the colors will remain true to life, enhancing the overall aesthetic of my photographs.

Speaking of low-light conditions, the Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L II USM lens excels here with its large maximum aperture of f/1.2. This feature allows me to use fast shutter speeds without compromising exposure, making it perfect for dimly lit settings. I can confidently capture sharp images without the noise that often accompanies higher ISO settings. This capability is invaluable for events, portraits, and even street photography where lighting can be unpredictable.

Another aspect I appreciate is the lens’s ring-type ultrasonic motor that drives autofocus quickly and quietly. As someone who often works in environments where silence is key, such as weddings or during candid moments, this feature allows me to focus on my subject without drawing attention to my camera. The speed and precision of the autofocus mean I can capture fleeting moments effortlessly, ensuring that I never miss a shot.

In summary, the Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L II USM Lens is a remarkable piece of equipment for anyone serious about photography. Its combination of stunning optical quality, low-light performance, and fast, quiet autofocus makes it a valuable addition to my kit. If you’re contemplating upgrading your lens collection, I genuinely believe that investing in this renewed model will yield fantastic results and enhance your photography significantly. Don’t miss out on the chance to elevate your craft; this lens could be the perfect companion for your Canon DSLR.

Feature	Details
Lens Type	Fixed (Prime)
Aperture	f/1.2
Coating	Spectra Coatings
Focusing Mechanism	Ring-type Ultrasonic Motor
Background Blur	Soft, Uniform Bokeh
Ideal For	Portraits, Low Light, Events

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2. Canon 85mm F1.2 L II USM EF AF Lens

As a photography enthusiast, I can’t help but feel excited about the Canon 85mm F1.2 L II USM EF AF Lens. This lens is not just an accessory; it’s a tool that can elevate my photography to new heights. The first thing that captures my attention is the maximum aperture of f1.2. This feature allows for exceptional low-light performance, enabling me to capture stunning images even in challenging lighting conditions. The wide aperture creates a beautiful bokeh effect, making my subject stand out against a softly blurred background. For portrait photographers like me, this lens is a dream come true, as it effortlessly isolates subjects and adds a professional touch to my work.

Another notable feature is the diagonal angle of view of 28°30′. This angle is perfect for a medium telephoto lens, allowing me to frame my subjects beautifully without the distortion that can occur with wider lenses. I appreciate the precision that the 85mm focal length offers, making it an ideal choice for portraits, weddings, and even some candid street photography. The closest focusing distance of 3.2 feet ensures that I can get up close and personal with my subjects, capturing intricate details that can make a photograph truly special.

The Canon 85mm F1.2 L II is equipped with a Ring-type UltraSonic motor (USM), which means I can expect high-speed autofocus capabilities. This feature is crucial for capturing fleeting moments, especially in dynamic settings where my subjects may be in motion. The full-time manual focus adjustment gives me the flexibility to fine-tune my shots without losing the benefits of autofocus, which is something I find incredibly useful when I want to ensure that every detail is perfect.

For those who use APS-H or APS-C sensors, the lens also has specific focal lengths to consider 111mm for APS-H sensors and 136mm for APS-C sensors. This versatility makes the Canon 85mm F1.2 L II suitable for a wide range of camera systems, ensuring that I can maximize its performance regardless of my equipment. The lens’s compact size, with a maximum diameter of 3.6 inches and a length of 3.3 inches, combined with a weight of 36.2 oz (or 1,025g), means that it won’t weigh me down during long shoots, allowing for ease of handling without compromising on quality.

One thing to note is that this lens is not zoomable, which may initially seem like a limitation. However, I see it as an opportunity to enhance my compositional skills. By requiring me to physically move closer or farther away from my subject, I am more engaged in the process of framing my shots, resulting in more thoughtfully composed images.

In summary, the Canon 85mm F1.2 L II USM EF AF Lens is a remarkable piece of equipment that can truly transform the way I shoot. Its fast aperture, high-speed autofocus, and exceptional image quality make it an excellent investment for anyone serious about portrait photography or looking to elevate their craft. I wholeheartedly recommend considering this lens for your photography toolkit. It’s not just a purchase; it’s an investment in your creative potential.

Feature	Details
Maximum Aperture	f1.2
Diagonal Angle of View	28°30′
Focus Adjustment	AF with full-time manual
Motor Type	Ring-type UltraSonic Motor (USM)
Focal Length	85mm
Closest Focusing Distance	3.2 feet
Mount Type	EF mount
Weight	36.2 oz / 1,025g
Dimensions	3.6 in. x 3.3 in. / 91.5mm x 84mm

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3. Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L II USM Lens (1056B002) + Filter Kit + Cap Keeper + Cleaning Kit + More (Renewed)

As a photography enthusiast, I’ve always been on the lookout for lenses that not only enhance my skills but also elevate the quality of my images. The Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L II USM Lens is nothing short of a game-changer, especially for those of us who are passionate about portrait photography. This lens, particularly when bundled with essential accessories like a filter kit, cap keeper, and cleaning kit, is an incredible investment for any serious photographer.

One of the standout features of the Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L II is its extraordinary f/1.2 maximum aperture. This feature allows me to exercise outstanding control over depth of field, making it easier to isolate subjects beautifully against blurred backgrounds. This is a crucial aspect of portrait photography, as it helps to draw attention to the subject’s features while creating a dreamy effect that is hard to achieve with other lenses. Moreover, the f/1.2 aperture is a blessing in low-light conditions, enabling me to capture stunning images even in challenging lighting scenarios.

The lens design is remarkably sophisticated, incorporating one aspherical element that effectively suppresses spherical aberrations. This means that I can expect sharpness and clarity in my images without the distortion that can sometimes occur with lower-quality lenses. The Super Spectra Coating further enhances image quality by minimizing flare and ghosting, ensuring that my photos are vibrant and true to life. With its ring-type ultrasonic motor (USM), I also enjoy fast and accurate autofocus, making it easier to capture fleeting moments without missing a beat.

What truly impresses me is the weather-sealed construction of this lens. As someone who often ventures outdoors to capture nature and portraits, this feature provides peace of mind. I know that I can use this lens in various environments without worrying about damage from moisture or dust. The rounded 8-blade diaphragm contributes to the beautiful bokeh effect that I love, enhancing the overall aesthetic of my portraits.

This lens is designed primarily for full-frame Canon EF-mount DSLRs, but it’s also versatile enough to be used with APS-C models, where it provides a 136mm equivalent focal length. This flexibility is advantageous for photographers who may wish to use different camera formats without compromising on quality. The compatibility with a wide range of Canon cameras, including the 1D series and 5D series, makes it a must-have for Canon users looking to enhance their portrait photography.

the Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L II USM Lens is a top-tier choice for anyone serious about portrait photography. The bundle offers not just the lens but essential accessories that will help keep my equipment in pristine condition. I believe that investing in this lens will significantly enhance my photographic capabilities and provide me with the tools to create stunning, professional-quality images. If you’re passionate about photography and looking to elevate your work, I highly recommend considering this exceptional lens.

Feature	Description
Maximum Aperture	f/1.2 for excellent low-light performance and depth of field control
Aspherical Element	Suppresses spherical aberrations for sharpness and clarity
Super Spectra Coating	Minimizes flare and ghosting for vibrant images
Weather-Sealed	Durable design protects against moisture and dust
Autofocus System	Ring-type ultrasonic motor for fast and accurate focusing
Compatibility	Works with full-frame and APS-C Canon EF-mount DSLRs

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Why the Canon EF 85mm f/1.2 is a Game Changer for My Photography

As a passionate photographer, I have always sought out lenses that not only enhance my creative expression but also deliver exceptional image quality. The Canon EF 85mm f/1.2 has become an indispensable part of my gear, and here’s why it has made such a significant impact on my work.

First and foremost, the lens’s impressive f/1.2 aperture allows me to shoot in low-light conditions with remarkable ease. I remember a time when I was capturing a wedding reception; the dim lighting posed a challenge, but with this lens, I was able to achieve stunningly bright images without sacrificing quality. The shallow depth of field it offers creates that beautiful, creamy bokeh, making my subjects pop against softly blurred backgrounds. This feature has truly elevated my portrait photography, giving my images a professional touch that resonates with clients.

Moreover, the build quality and design of the Canon EF 85mm f/1.2 inspire confidence. Its solid construction feels reassuring in my hands, and the precision of the autofocus system has never let me down. Whether I’m photographing a candid moment or a posed shot, I appreciate how quickly it locks onto my

Buying Guide for the Canon EF 85mm f/1.2

When I first considered the Canon EF 85mm f/1.2, I was searching for a lens that could elevate my portrait photography. This lens has a reputation for its stunning bokeh and excellent low-light performance, making it a popular choice among professionals and enthusiasts alike.

Understanding the Focal Length

The 85mm focal length is often referred to as the “classic portrait length.” I appreciate how this distance allows me to capture flattering images of my subjects while maintaining a comfortable working distance. It’s perfect for creating intimate portraits without feeling intrusive.

Maximum Aperture

The f/1.2 maximum aperture is one of the standout features for me. This wide aperture lets in a significant amount of light, which is essential for shooting in dim conditions. I love how it enables me to achieve a shallow depth of field, resulting in beautifully blurred backgrounds that isolate my subjects.

Optical Quality

When I evaluate lenses, optical quality is a top priority. The Canon EF 85mm f/1.2 delivers exceptional sharpness, even at wide apertures. I’ve experienced remarkable detail in my images, and the lens produces pleasing color rendition and contrast, which enhances the overall aesthetic of my photographs.

Autofocus Performance

Autofocus speed and accuracy are crucial for capturing fleeting moments. In my experience, the EF 85mm f/1.2 features a reliable autofocus system that performs well in various lighting conditions. However, I also appreciate the option for manual focus, which provides me with greater control when needed.

Build Quality

The build quality of this lens is impressive. It feels sturdy and well-constructed, which gives me confidence when using it in different environments. The weight of the lens is something to consider, as it can be a bit heavier than other options. I’ve found that using a tripod or monopod can help alleviate some of the strain during long shooting sessions.

Compatibility

Before purchasing, I ensured that this lens would be compatible with my camera body. The Canon EF mount is widely used, which means it works seamlessly with many Canon DSLRs. If you’re using a mirrorless camera, I recommend checking for compatibility with an adapter.

Price Consideration

The Canon EF 85mm f/1.2 is considered a premium lens, and the price reflects that quality. I always weigh the cost against the features and performance I need. Investing in this lens can be worthwhile if you prioritize portrait photography and require exceptional image quality.

the Canon EF 85mm f/1.2 has been a game-changer for my photography. Its combination of focal length, aperture, and optical quality makes it a formidable choice for serious portrait photographers. I recommend considering your shooting style and needs before making a decision, but for me, this lens has consistently delivered outstanding results.

Author Profile

Frederick Surles

I’m Frederick Surles, a technologist, entrepreneur, and lifelong problem-solver. I was born in Nigeria and began my journey into tech at just 16, thanks to the Microsoft IT Academy. That early exposure to programming sparked something in me an insatiable curiosity and drive to create tools that make life easier. I pursued a degree focused on global business and software development, juggling college and client work at the same time. Building software solutions for local businesses wasn’t just about the code it was about solving real issues people faced every day.

In 2025, I began a new chapter writing. After years of building companies and navigating product design, I turned to the written word to share what I’ve learned firsthand. Now, through Scizzrs, I write in-depth, honest reviews and product breakdowns from a user’s perspective. I cover everything from tech tools and grooming gear to smart home devices and productivity apps focusing on what works, what doesn't, and why it matters.

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