The goal started in June 2019 Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM is a fast fixed focal length lens that is characterized by its impressive size and high price. Determined for Portrait photographersThe goal is to establish yourself as essential reference in this domain.
Aside from an impressive spec sheet, what performance can we expect from this lens? Will it be the ally of choice for portrait photographers who love background blur? Isn't its weight detrimental to use? After more than two years of use, here is ours Full review of the Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM.
Introducing the Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM
At first glance, an 85mm is quite a ” banal » in an optics park: all frames on offer a variety of possibilities at this focal length. It's a popular perspective by portrait painters for him advantageous refund facial features and separation Plans become easier. It is also very popular with Photojournalists if you have distance restrictions to your subject.
If the 85mm focal length is not very innovative, the association with a Aperture f/1.2 it is, much rarer. Canon chooses a premium positioning here. Even in this “premium” galaxy the The Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM stands above the fray. Launched at 2,999 euros and now marketed at 3,049 euros, there is no doubt about the target group. Note that Canon offers a second version of this lens called the “DS” for “Defocus Smoothing” with even softer bokeh for €3,499. However, note that Nikon launched its model in February 2023 Nikkor Z 85mm f/1.2 Soffered at an even more elite price of €3,349.
To offer one Opening so bright and Canon hasn't achieved quality worthy of its price positioning No compromises in design. This goal is big, VERY big. With a Weight of 1.2kg and a maximum diameter of 103mm For 117mm longthe Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM so impressive that the housing cannot be laid flat when assembled and the whole thing becomes even more bulky with the sun visor. Here it is compared to other possible options at this focal length.
The Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 is now very difficult to find alongside the Tamron 85mm f/1.8 Di VC USD (Reflex) and the Samyang AF 85mm f/1.4 RF
The photo above represents the first complaint that we can bring closer to our daily goal. It's not about the size difference, even if it is obvious. The Tamron and Samyang lenses mentioned above open to f/1.8 and f/1.4 respectively. The size difference is therefore not surprising, especially given the benefits we will discuss below. Our complaint concerns the fact thatNeither of the two alternatives presented here can be purchased outside of the used market.
Tamron has stopped production of most of its SLR lenses and Canon has asserted its intellectual property rights with Samyang and others to prohibit further development of the RF mount. This giant of 13 elements distributed by 9 groups including UD and aspherical elements therefore only suffers from very little competition Until that date.
We will also find that we are It's sad to see the lack of stabilization of a lens that already shows such measurements, this is in contrast to the brand's two latest productions: the Canon EF 85 mm f/1.4 L IS USM for SLR cameras and the Canon RF 85 mm f/2 IS STM Macro.
In addition to the size difference, the f/2 version gets the “macro” designation thanks to a focusing distance of 35cm compared to 85cm for the f/1.2 version.
Finally, an important detail point is worth mentioning, namely Canon's decision to offer one 82mm thread despite the width of the animal. With a shutter limited to 1/8000 second on the R/R5/R6, using an ND filter to utilize maximum aperture in the middle of the day is mandatory. 82mm remains a standard size in a professional kit shared with the 135mm f/1.8 L IS USM or f/2.8 aperture zooms.
Here are the full specifications of the Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM lens:
- Focal length: 85mm
- maximum opening : f/1.2
- Minimum opening :F16
- optical structure : 13 elements divided into 9 groups, including aspherical lenses and UD glasses
- membrane : 9 circular slats
- maximum magnification ratio : 0.12x
- Viewing angle : 30°
- minimum focusing distance : 0.85m
- Tropization : Resistance to splashes and dust
- Autofocus : yes, USM engine
- Weight : 1195g
- Sun visor : yes, removable
- stabilization : NO
- Filter diameter : ø 82 mm
- Dimensions : 103.2 x 117.3 mm (D x L)
- compatible mount : Canon RF
Ergonomics and handling
The Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM probably isn't Not the most comfortable lens to use. It is a large glass block weighing 1.2 kg encourage you to support it with your left hand instead of just the handle of the box. Her Funnel design at least has the advantage of leaving enough space to comfortably slide your fingers in, but when it comes to balance, we've seen better.
As soon as we have became aware of his size, there is very little to consider. To make the autofocus process easier, Canon offers us the option to do so limit the focus area from 1.5 m to infinity. This is the only switch on the barrel traditional AF/MF.
The focus ring is quite soft and difficult to use accurately. It's not the goal not really designed for manual focusing. There control ring stays in place, perfectly notched. This is the Canon L-series standard that we are familiar with. Moisture and dust resistant, sturdy, well constructed.
Performance and image quality of the Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM
We tested the Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM with the Canon R5. You can click on any image to view it in higher resolution.
Canon EOS R5 – Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM – f/1.2 – 1/250s – ISO 400
Canon EOS R5 – Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM – f/5.6 – 1/200s – ISO 100
Canon EOS R5 – Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM – f/4 – 1/320s – ISO 200
Examining the photos provided by this lens, we think so quickly conquered. The Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM offers one Very flattering look for our pictures. It's one of those lenses that lets you take photos of your feet and they'll look great… we actually did that.
Canon EOS R5 – Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM – f/2.8 – 1/250s – ISO 6400
Suddenly the complex optical design of the lens is revealed all its meaning and relevance. At f/1.2 the image is great. Sharpness, contrast, from edge to edge it's all there and the only need to close a notch or two is due to the depth of field required The focus area is reduced.
Canon EOS R5 – Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM – f/1.2 – 1/1000s – ISO 100
We can do that without any problem I work at f/1.2 all day, In any case. This lens not only offers lush and pronounced bokeh, but also a 3D rendering of scenesa perfect mix of very detailed and very soft sharpness, then very creamy bokeh, far from a more clinical appearance popularized by other manufacturers. The display reminds us of our test of the GFX 100S with portrait lenses, it is something very special.
Canon EOS R5 – Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM – f/1.4 – 1/2000s – ISO 100
Speaking of details, the Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM forces you to correct the skin texture of your subjects as well as them The fine detail reproduction is high. Not everyone will like such a resolution. More than ever, The makeup box will be necessary for portrait shots.
Canon EOS R5 – Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM – f/1.4 – 1/100s – ISO 160
The contrast and resolution gain is marginal when the slider is closed. However, increasing depth of field reinforces this ultimate sharp feeling WHO peaks at f/2.8 and persists until f/8.
Canon EOS R5 – Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM – f/2.8 – 1/250s – ISO 250
Canon EOS R5 – Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM – f/8 – 1/125s – ISO 200
We do not have No evidence of distortion or chromatic aberration. As far as vignetting goes, this is the case quite present at f/1.2but is not excessive compared to the competition and disappears almost imperceptibly at f/4 when the aperture is closed.
There just vulnerability The Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM is not sensitive to flare if you do not use a lens hood, as in the examples below. The sun visor can easily help here and is therefore a must.
Canon EOS R5 – Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM – f/2.8 – 1/640s – ISO 100
Canon EOS R5 – Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM – f/1.2 – 1/2000s – ISO 100
After two years of use, we still find it difficult to highlight the shortcomings of the Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM. He delivers that again and again WOW effect And our only real gripe is that once we get used to this quality, the other lenses in our set seem very boring.
Canon EOS R5 – Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM – f/1.2 – 1/1000s – ISO 100
Canon EOS R5 – Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM – f/5.6 – 1/200s – ISO 100
Autofocus
The lens features efficient motorized USM autofocus. It is not not the fastest autofocus in the series Both elements to be moved are impressive, but no less effective. In combination with the algorithms of the Canon EOS R5 The acquisition is quick and the follow-up is flawless.
On the other hand, this 85mm f/1.2 is not silent. You can hear in the video slight clicking noises when moving elements that can be recorded by the microphone within the case. However, this is hardly noticeable when used in photos.
Canon EOS R5 – Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM – f/1.2 – 1/160s – ISO 160
The aperture at f/1.2 allows for a Efficient operation in low light conditions. Canon communicates on a Sensitivity of -6 EVand we didn't feel compromised when using this lens in the evening either.
Canon EOS R5 – Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM – f/2 – 1/80s – ISO 3200
Against the competition
We mentioned this at the beginning of the test Lack of options in 85mm format for the Canon RF mount. However, Canon offers this Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM D.Sa DS version (Defocus smoothing) of this goal.
In practice, this lens benefits from a special treatment applied to either side of one of the lenses, resulting in “high transmission power in the center of the optics and low transmission power at the periphery.” The goal: to achieve a blur.” very diffuse and very soft » says Canon.
What you need to know is that this technology affects the light absorption ability. Although the bokeh is characteristic of f/1.2, the amount of light reaching the sensor is at f/2.2, so you need to increase the ISO faster. This is for those who Value looks more than anything else and have one excellent light management. In practice, it seems to us that the difference between the two is not always entirely clear to justify the higher price of 3,649 euros and the lower ISO performance.
The Canon RF 85mm f/2 Macro IS STM is the brand's “affordable” 85mm. For “only” €699 you benefit from very good optical quality. However, disadvantages of this lens include a simpler construction and both louder and slower autofocus. Still, we think it's excellent in many respects and you can read our detailed review to find out what we think of it.
Another stabilized 85mm to adjust would be that Canon EF 85mm f/1.4 L IS USM. It also offers flawless construction less impressive but also a little less “magical” in his rendition. Visually it lacks, but it is its construction, autofocus and f/1.4 aperture that justify its very high price of €1749.
THE Sigma 85mm ART DG HSM item no is still considered the most efficient 85mm lens in the SLR world. If it is him visually very goodsome find it too clinical, revealing any imperfections in the subject's skin. It's also prone to chromatic aberrations, but for a third of the price of our lens at the time, it's a pretty good deal. However, be careful 1130 grams are poorly balanced on an EOS R with a EF/RF ring which shifts the center of gravity forward. On paper the weight seems similar, but this The grip is much less comfortable.
Finally, let's remember the two missing models mentioned earlier, which are often available on the used market. On the one hand, the Tamron SP 85 mm f/1.8 Di VC USD (used approx. €664) has a nice metal construction and is stabilized. The Samyang AF 85 mm f/1.4 RF (€954 used), on the other hand, is light and bright. The Tamron has the disadvantage that it requires an adapter ring in addition to a more modest bezel, while the Samyang is more sculptural and produces quite warm tones. Otherwise they are both excellent artists.
Who is the Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM suitable for?
The price and size of the Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM limit this lens to one User niche : THE the most demanding professionals Who can justify its weight in their pockets and accounts?
Professional portrait photographers won't find bokeh more appealing to separate your subject from the background.
Canon EOS R5 – Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM – f/8 – 1/250s – ISO 400
Canon EOS R5 – Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM – f/1.2 – 1/4000s – ISO 100 – APS-C x1.6 mode of the Canon R5
Canon EOS R5 – Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM – f/1.2 – 1/250s – ISO 3200
THE Event photographers will be happy to work there delicate lighting without the use of a flash, scenarios regularly encountered at concerts or religious ceremonies.
Finally, this Fashion photographers Anyone who values the modeling of an image but has not opted for medium format will be more than satisfied with this lens.
The Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM, a gem
The Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM is a more than attractive goal. Besides, it is optical performanceThere's something reassuring about it in the sense that it shows its limitations right from the start. Anyone who chooses this goal knows it its price and its sizeno hidden usage defects, The Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM does what it promises.
Canon EOS R5 – Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM – f/1.2 – 1/2000s – ISO 6400
We still feel obliged to remember that our goal today is a niche one. He is incredibly bulky and the areas of application in which it has more advantages than disadvantages are numerous.
To take it with you, you absolutely have to do it use it fully because its presence in the bag is harmful. The Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM is suitable for the intended niche a wonderful production tool This will certainly set you apart from the competition… assuming you manage to stomach the price.
The Canon RF 85 mm f/1.2 L USM is available from Digit-Photo, Miss Numérique, Camara, Photo-Univers, IPLN, Digixo, Fnac and specialist retailers from €3,049.
Test report on the Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM: In the land of superlative portraits
Autofocus speed and precision
8.7
Strong points
Aperture at f/1.2
Build quality
Exceptional optical performance
Very aesthetic bokeh
Absence of aberrations
Weak points
Low sensitivity to scattered light
Difficult
No optical stabilization
Elite price