Canon EF 85mm F1.2L II USM

Overview

The Canon EF 85mm F1.2L II USM is a high-performance lens that has been a staple for portrait photographers, providing outstanding image quality and a beautiful bokeh. This lens is part of Canon's esteemed L-series, which is known for its durability and exceptional optical performance. With its fast maximum aperture of f/1.2, it allows for incredible low-light shooting capabilities and gives photographers the ability to create stunning depth-of-field effects, isolating their subjects with ease.

Build Quality and Design

The build quality of the EF 85mm F1.2L II USM is exceptional. Built to withstand the rigors of professional use, the lens features a weather-sealed construction that makes it resistant to dust and moisture. The outer casing is made of high-quality materials, giving it a robust feel in the hand. The lens is relatively heavy due to its all-glass elements and large aperture design, which provides a solid and premium feel. The focus ring is smooth and well-damped, making manual focusing a pleasure.

Optical Performance

Optically, the Canon EF 85mm F1.2L II delivers stunning images. The sharpness is exceptional, particularly when stopped down to f/2.8 or f/4, but even wide open at f/1.2, it provides remarkably good results. The lens produces a pleasing bokeh, thanks to its 8-blade diaphragm that contributes to the smoothness of the out-of-focus areas. Color rendition is vivid and natural, and contrast is excellent. However, users may notice some chromatic aberration and vignetting at f/1.2, which can be corrected in post-processing.

Autofocus and Usability

The autofocus system in the EF 85mm F1.2L II is powered by Canon's Ultrasonic Motor (USM), providing fast and silent focusing capabilities. However, some users report that the autofocus can be a bit slower compared to modern lenses, particularly in low light or when tracking moving subjects. The lens can also be prone to a bit of focus shift when stopped down, which might require careful focusing techniques when shooting at wider apertures.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exceptional optical performance and sharpness
• Beautiful bokeh and depth-of-field control
• Sturdy, weather-sealed construction
• Fast maximum aperture for low-light shooting

Cons

• Heavy and relatively bulky compared to other 85mm options
• Autofocus can be slower, especially in low-light conditions
• Some chromatic aberration and vignetting at wide open

Verdict

Overall, the Canon EF 85mm F1.2L II USM is a fantastic lens for portrait photographers and anyone looking to achieve a beautiful, creamy background while maintaining excellent subject sharpness. While it has a few quirks, such as its weight and autofocus speed, its image quality and build justify its place as a standout option in the Canon lineup. If you prioritize stunning portrait photography and can handle its heavier build, this lens will undoubtedly become a favorite in your kit.