Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM

Canon built this prime for full-frame RF-mount cameras. The fixed 85mm focal length suits portraits from several steps away. Wedding, fashion and studio photographers can use that space for tight framing without placing the camera very close to a face. It joined the RF system in 2019.

The f/1.2 maximum aperture gives you more light than a smaller opening. It also offers shallow depth of field for separating a nearby person from their surroundings. The trade-off is a large, heavy body with no built-in stabilization.

This combination suits photographers who can plan around one focal length. Leave enough room to move back when you need a full-length portrait.

At 2 lb 10.2 oz (1195 g), this lens makes its presence felt through a long portrait session. It measures 4.06 in (103.2 mm) across and 4.62 in (117.3 mm) long, so it fills the hand. A screw-in filter must match the 82mm thread on the front. That size comes with the f/1.2 aperture.

The 85mm focal length helps frame head-and-shoulder portraits from several steps away. Step back for full-length views or move closer for tighter framing. Closest focus is 2.8 ft (85 cm), measured from the sensor. That is the focusing limit; your chosen portrait distance also depends on framing and facial proportions.

In a candlelit reception or dim street, f/1.2 gives more room for a faster shutter speed or lower ISO than a smaller aperture. How far you can take either option depends on the light and the subject. Choose enough shutter speed when people move.

Depth of field at f/1.2 can be very shallow at portrait distances. Focus on the eye nearest the camera when that is the detail you want sharp. Even small movements can shift it outside the sharp zone. A background placed well behind the person is easier to soften.

Stop down when both eyes or several people need to stay clear. The aperture required depends on distance, face angle and the arrangement of the group. The optics specification score is 88 out of 100.

There is no built-in stabilization. A camera with body stabilization can help reduce camera shake. At slower shutter speeds, a steady hold or firm support is useful. The features specification score is 52 out of 100.

Weather sealing helps resist dust and moisture outdoors. Use cover during persistent rain. Fluorine coatings on the front and rear glass help water and oily marks wipe away, which makes cleaning easier between locations.

A tripod or monopod can steady the camera for static portrait setups. For moving subjects, a faster shutter speed does that job instead.

Focus movement happens inside the lens, so the overall length stays fixed while you focus.

One aspherical element helps correct distortion and spherical aberration, which can bend straight edges or soften detail. One UD element and a BR element help reduce coloured fringes at high-contrast edges, such as backlit hair. The construction specification score is 69 out of 100.