Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L II USM Portrait
The Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L II USM is a 85mm f/1.2 lens designed for Canon EF mount cameras. Used copies start from $750 on GearFocus, with buyer protection on every purchase.
Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L II USM Portrait
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Lens Overview — Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L II USM
Key Features — Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L II USM
f/1.2 Maximum Aperture: One of the widest apertures available in an 85mm prime, enabling extreme subject isolation and low-light shooting without a flash.
85mm Full-Frame Prime: Classic portrait focal length with full-frame coverage, delivering a natural perspective and flattering compression for subject photography.
L-Series Build Quality: Canon's professional L-series designation indicates premium optical construction and materials built for long-term, heavy-use reliability.
Ring-Type USM Autofocus: Ultrasonic motor provides near-silent autofocus operation with full-time manual focus override without switching out of AF mode.
8-Blade Circular Aperture: Produces smooth, rounded bokeh in out-of-focus areas, particularly valued in portrait work for pleasing background rendering.
Canon EF Mount: Compatible with the full range of Canon EF-mount DSLR cameras, including full-frame bodies like the 5D and 1D series.
Lens Specifications — Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L II USM
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Use Cases | Studio, Fashion |
| Lens Type | Prime |
| Format | Full Frame |
| Zoom/Prime | Prime |
| Focal Length | 85mm |
| Maximum Aperture | f/1.2 |
| Camera System | DSLR |
| Lens Mount | Canon EF |
| Autofocus | Yes |
| Focus Type | Auto, Manual |
| Image Stabilization | None |
| Filter Thread | 72mm |
Description — Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L II USM
The Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L II USM is a prime lens built for Canon EF mount DSLR systems, covering a full-frame image circle at a fixed 85mm focal length. Its standout specification is the f/1.2 maximum aperture, which places it among the widest available options in this focal length range and opens up significant creative possibilities for shallow depth of field and low-light shooting. The lens supports both autofocus and manual focus, providing operational flexibility for different shooting styles and subjects.
A 72mm filter thread makes it straightforward to add screw-in filters for creative or protective purposes. At 1025g, the lens has a solid, substantial feel consistent with its professional-grade designation. It is worth noting that image stabilization is not included, so photographers working at slower shutter speeds will need to manage camera movement through technique or support.
As a dedicated full-frame prime in the standard focal length range, this lens is purpose-built for Canon DSLR shooters who want maximum aperture performance at 85mm.
Pros — Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L II USM
- ✓Exceptionally wide maximum aperture of f/1.2 enables strong subject separation and low-light shooting
- ✓Fixed 85mm focal length on a full-frame format provides a classic standard-range perspective
- ✓Supports both autofocus and manual focus, offering flexibility for different shooting scenarios
Cons — Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L II USM
- ✗No image stabilization (listed as None in specs), which can be a drawback in handheld low-light shooting despite the wide aperture
- ✗Weight of 1025g makes this a heavier lens to carry and handhold for extended periods
- ✗Prime design means no zoom flexibility — shooters must reposition to reframe
Reviews — Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L II USM
Videos — Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L II USM
Canon ef 85mm II f/1.2 - Over 9 Years Later — David Cuhls
Frequently Asked Questions — Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L II USM
What camera mount does this lens use?+
This lens uses the Canon EF mount and is designed for Canon DSLR camera systems. It is compatible with Canon EF-mount bodies as specified in the product data.
Does this lens work on full-frame cameras?+
Yes, the lens format is specified as Full Frame, meaning it is designed to cover a full-frame sensor without vignetting on compatible Canon EF full-frame DSLR bodies.
Does this lens have image stabilization?+
No, image stabilization is listed as None in the specifications. Photographers should account for this when shooting in lower-light or slower-shutter-speed situations.
What filter size does this lens take?+
The lens has a 72mm filter thread, so any 72mm screw-in filter will be compatible for use with this lens.
How heavy is this lens?+
The Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L II USM weighs 1025g, making it a notably substantial lens that some photographers may find tiring during extended handheld use.
Is this lens a zoom or a prime?+
This is a prime lens with a fixed focal length of 85mm. There is no zoom capability — the focal length does not change, and reframing requires physical repositioning.