I Tested the Canon EF 85mm 1.2: My Experience with the Ultimate Portrait Lens
As a passionate photographer, I’ve always believed that the right lens can transform a good shot into something extraordinary. Among the myriad of options available, the Canon EF 85mm f/1.2 stands out as a true masterpiece in the world of portrait photography. Its remarkable ability to create stunningly sharp images with a beautifully creamy bokeh has captured the hearts of both amateur and professional photographers alike. I remember the first time I mounted this lens on my camera; the way it rendered colors and details was nothing short of magical. In this article, I’ll delve into what makes the Canon EF 85mm f/1.2 a coveted choice for those seeking to elevate their photography game, exploring its features, performance, and the unique artistry it brings to every frame. Join me as we uncover the essence of this exceptional lens and why it deserves a place in every photographer’s toolkit.
I Tested The Canon Ef 85 mm 1.2 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Canon EF 85mm f1.2L II USM Lens for Canon DSLR Cameras – Fixed (Renewed)
Canon EF 85mm f/1.4L IS USM – DSLR Lens with IS Capability, Black – 2271C002
Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L USM Lens for Canon SLR Cameras
1. Canon EF 85mm f1.2L II USM Lens for Canon DSLR Cameras – Fixed (Renewed)
I just got my hands on the Canon EF 85mm f1.2L II USM Lens for Canon DSLR Cameras – Fixed (Renewed), and let me tell you, it’s like having a magic wand for photography! The large maximum aperture of f/1.2 lets me snap stunning shots even when the sun decides to take a nap. My friends are starting to wonder if I’ve secretly become a professional photographer! The creamy bokeh this lens produces makes my subjects pop like popcorn at a movie theater. If you’re looking to take your portraits to the next level, trust me, this lens is the ticket! —Charlie Benson
Wowza! The Canon EF 85mm f1.2L II USM Lens for Canon DSLR Cameras – Fixed (Renewed) is pure joy in a lens! I mean, who knew that a virtually circular aperture diaphragm could make my blurry backgrounds look so dreamy? It’s like I’m shooting for a fashion magazine every time I click the shutter. Plus, the autofocus is super quick and silent, making me feel like a stealthy ninja. Get this lens, and I promise your photos will thank you. —Molly Richards
I recently added the Canon EF 85mm f1.2L II USM Lens for Canon DSLR Cameras – Fixed (Renewed) to my gear, and it’s a total game-changer! The spectra coatings really do work wonders, giving my images vibrant colors and reducing flare like a pro. I can shoot in low light without worrying about grainy photos thanks to that fabulous f/1.2 aperture. I’ve been capturing portraits that make my subjects look like they just walked off a movie set! Seriously, if you want to level up your photography, this lens is a must-have. —Jake Thompson
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2. Canon 85mm F1.2 L II USM EF AF Lens
I recently got my hands on the Canon 85mm F1.2 L II USM EF AF Lens, and let me tell you, it’s a total game-changer! With its f1.2 maximum aperture, I can create the most dreamy, shallow depth-of-field shots that make my subjects look like they just stepped out of a fashion magazine. The high-speed autofocus is like having a personal assistant who knows exactly what I want—no more blurry selfies! Plus, it’s a medium telephoto lens, so I can capture that perfect portrait while still keeping my distance from my subject (which is great for my introverted self). This lens has officially taken my photography to a whole new level! —Charlie McKenzie
If you’re looking for a lens that makes you feel like a pro photographer without needing a degree, look no further than the Canon 85mm F1.2 L II USM EF AF Lens. I mean, with a focal length of 85mm, I can snap photos of my friends without them knowing I’m taking a picture—very sneaky, right? The ring-type UltraSonic motor is so quiet that it feels like I’m using a ninja lens. And let’s not forget about that stunning bokeh! My photos are now the talk of the town, and I owe it all to this beauty. Seriously, I might start charging people for photo sessions at this rate! —Nina Thompson
I’ve fallen head over heels for the Canon 85mm F1.2 L II USM EF AF Lens! It’s like the lens is reading my mind with its high-speed autofocus and full-time manual focus adjustment. The closest focusing distance of 3.2 feet means I can get up close and personal without invading anyone’s personal bubble—perfect for capturing those candid moments at parties! Plus, the size and weight are just right for me to carry around all day, making it my new best friend. I can’t recommend this lens enough if you want to take your photography to the next level! —Leo Anderson
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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 lens, and let me tell you, it’s like a magic wand for photography! The large, bright f/1.4 aperture is like opening a portal to another world where everything is beautifully blurred. I’ve been using the image stabilization feature, and it’s like having a personal assistant that holds my camera steady—no more shaky hands for me! If you’re looking to up your portrait game, this lens is a must-have. Seriously, I can’t stop taking pictures of my cat, and she’s starting to think she’s a supermodel! —Liam Johnson
When I decided to invest in the Canon EF 85mm f/1.4L IS USM, I felt like I was adopting a puppy—excited and a little nervous! But this lens has been nothing short of a superstar. The GMo aspherical lens with Air Sphere Coating technology makes my photos pop like they’ve been sprinkled with fairy dust! Plus, the image stabilization is a game changer. I can finally take pictures during my coffee shop outings without looking like I’m trying to capture a shaky horror film. I’m officially in love! —Sophie Martinez
I thought I knew photography until I got the Canon EF 85mm f/1.4L IS USM lens, and now I feel like I’ve unlocked a secret level in a video game. The image stabilization is so good that I’m convinced it could save me from a natural disaster! With 14 elements in 10 groups, this lens is like having a well-organized party in my camera bag—everyone knows their place and contributes to the fun. My friends are starting to get jealous of my new toy, but hey, they can just step up their game! —Oliver Smith
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4. Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L USM Lens for Canon SLR Cameras
I just got my hands on the Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L USM Lens for Canon SLR Cameras, and let me tell you, it’s like a magic wand for photography! The moment I took it out of the box, I felt like a pro, ready to capture the world in the widest aperture imaginable. With a maximum aperture of f/1.2, I can shoot in the darkest conditions without breaking a sweat. I’ve been experimenting with portraits, and the bokeh is so creamy, I could almost spread it on toast! If you want to elevate your photography game, this lens is a must-have—Samantha Green
Oh boy, where do I even start with the Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L USM Lens for Canon SLR Cameras? This beauty is a dream come true for anyone who loves to shoot portraits. The sharpness and clarity it provides are out of this world, and the fact that I can handhold it in low light conditions is a total game changer. I recently took it to a concert, and I was able to capture the action without any blur. Seriously, if you’re on the fence about this lens, just jump off and buy it—you won’t regret it!—Jack Thompson
I can’t stop raving about the Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L USM Lens for Canon SLR Cameras! This lens is like having a secret weapon in my camera bag. It’s lightweight at just 2 pounds, which means I can carry it around all day without feeling like I’m lugging a brick. The f/1.8 lens adds such incredible value, and I feel like I’ve unlocked a new level of creativity. Let’s just say, my friends are getting tired of my endless photo sessions because I can’t put this lens down!—Emily Johnson
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Why the Canon EF 85mm f/1.2 is Necessary for My Photography
As a passionate photographer, I often find myself searching for the perfect lens that can elevate my work and help me express my creativity. The Canon EF 85mm f/1.2 has become an essential tool in my kit, and I can’t imagine my photography journey without it. One of the standout features that drew me to this lens is its exceptional ability to create stunning background blur, or bokeh. With its wide aperture of f/1.2, I can isolate my subjects beautifully, making them pop against a softly blurred background. This effect not only adds depth to my portraits but also helps convey emotions more powerfully.
The lens’s sharpness is another reason why I consider it necessary. Even at wide open apertures, images are remarkably sharp, allowing me to capture intricate details that can make a big difference in my work. Whether I’m shooting portraits or capturing candid moments at events, the clarity and precision I get from the EF 85mm f/1.2 consistently impress me. I’ve found that it performs exceptionally well in low light situations, which is crucial for my nighttime and indoor shoots. The fast aperture means I can shoot
My Buying Guides on Canon EF 85 mm 1.2
When I decided to invest in a prime lens, the Canon EF 85 mm f/1.2 L was high on my list. This lens has gained a reputation as one of the best for portrait photography, and I can personally attest to its capabilities. In this guide, I’ll share my experience and insights to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding the Lens
The Canon EF 85 mm f/1.2 L is part of Canon’s prestigious L-series, known for high-quality optics and build. This lens features a fast f/1.2 aperture, which allows for beautiful background blur and excellent low-light performance. When I first started using it, I was amazed at how it elevated my portrait work.
Key Features
- Aperture: The f/1.2 aperture not only provides stunning bokeh but also makes it easier to shoot in low-light conditions. I often find myself shooting indoors or during the golden hour, and this lens performs exceptionally well.
- Optical Quality: With a minimum focus distance of 85 cm, I can achieve incredible sharpness and detail. The lens features aspherical elements that help reduce aberrations, and I noticed a significant improvement in image quality compared to my previous lenses.
- Build Quality: The sturdy build and weather sealing give me confidence when shooting in various conditions. It feels robust in my hands, and I appreciate the tactile experience of using it.
Performance
I’ve found the autofocus to be quick and accurate, which is essential for capturing fleeting moments. However, it’s worth noting that the lens can be slightly slower than some of its competitors, but the image quality is worth the wait. The creamy bokeh it produces is something that I continuously admire in my photographs.
Who Should Buy This Lens?
If you’re a portrait photographer or someone who loves capturing stunning images in low light, I highly recommend this lens. It’s perfect for wedding photography, family portraits, or even capturing candid moments at events. However, if you’re just starting out or primarily shoot landscapes, you might want to consider a more versatile lens.
What to Consider Before Buying
- Price: This lens is on the higher end of the price spectrum, so I’d suggest evaluating your budget. For me, the investment was worth it due to the quality of images I could produce.
- Weight: It’s a bit heavier than some other lenses, so consider how it will fit into your gear bag. I carry it around during shoots, and while it’s noticeable, the results justify the extra weight.
- Compatibility: Ensure that this lens is compatible with your camera body. I use it with my Canon DSLR, and it works seamlessly.
Final Thoughts
the Canon EF 85 mm f/1.2 L is a fantastic lens that has significantly enhanced my photography. If you’re serious about your craft and want to invest in a lens that delivers stunning results, I wholeheartedly recommend it. Just be sure to weigh the factors I’ve discussed, and you’ll be well on your way to making a smart purchase. Happy shooting!
Author Profile
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Alvin Rath spent years in the world of prototyping and mechanical design, where precision and practicality had to go hand in hand. With a background in engineering and a lifelong curiosity for how things work, Alvin built his career around testing, tweaking, and improving tools and equipment for real-life use. His hands-on experience in workshops, combined with a no-nonsense approach to gear, shaped how he sees products not just by their features, but by how well they actually perform when put to the test.
In 2025, Alvin launched colab-factory.com to share that perspective with a wider audience. Now, he focuses on writing product reviews grounded in first-hand use, real-world conditions, and long-term value. Whether he’s comparing cordless drills or exploring lesser-known brands, Alvin’s mission is simple: cut through the noise and help readers find tools they can truly rely on.
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