When it comes to portrait photography, few lenses are as revered as the 85mm focal length. In Canon’s RF mount system, photographers have two compelling options: the premium RF 85mm f/1.2L USM and the more versatile RF 85mm f/2 Macro IS STM. As someone who has shot thousands of portraits with both lenses, I can tell you that choosing between them isn’t just about aperture—it’s about understanding their unique characteristics and how they align with your photography style. These lenses represent different philosophies in optical design, with the f/1.2 prioritizing ultimate light gathering and the f/2 offering versatility and value. In this comprehensive comparison, I’ll break down every aspect of these portrait powerhouses to help you determine which one deserves a place in your camera bag and which will better serve your specific photography needs.
Understanding Canon’s RF 85mm Lineup
Before diving into the specifics of these two lenses, let’s talk about their place in Canon’s RF ecosystem. I’ve been shooting with Canon systems for over a decade, and I’ve seen how their RF mount has pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in lens design.
The Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM was one of the flagship lenses introduced with the RF system, showcasing Canon’s commitment to exceptional optical quality. When I first got my hands on this lens, I was immediately struck by its sheer size and the promise of that remarkable f/1.2 aperture. This lens represents the pinnacle of Canon’s optical engineering, designed for professionals who demand the absolute best in image quality and low-light performance.
The Canon RF 85mm f/2 Macro IS STM, on the other hand, was introduced later as a more affordable and versatile option. I discovered during a recent portrait session that this lens punches well above its weight class, delivering impressive results with the added benefits of image stabilization and macro capabilities. It’s designed to be a more accessible entry point into the world of RF portrait lenses while still offering excellent performance.
Both lenses fill important niches in the RF system, but they do so with different approaches to design, performance, and price. Understanding these differences is crucial to making the right choice for your photography.
Head-to-Head Comparison
Build Quality and Design
The most immediate difference between these lenses becomes apparent the moment you pick them up. The RF 85mm f/1.2L is a substantial piece of equipment, weighing approximately 1195g (2.6 lbs) and measuring about 117mm (4.6 inches) long. It features exceptional build quality with weather sealing that inspires confidence when shooting in challenging conditions. I’ve used this lens in light rain, dust, and extreme temperatures, and it has never let me down. The lens barrel feels solid, and the focus ring operates with smooth precision.
The RF 85mm f/2 Macro IS STM, by contrast, is remarkably compact and lightweight. It weighs just 500g (1.1 lbs) and measures about 90mm (3.5 inches) long. This makes it incredibly portable for a portrait lens. During a recent wedding shoot, I appreciated how little space it took in my camera bag and how comfortable it was to carry for extended periods.
In terms of build quality, the f/1.2L feels more professional with its metal mount and L-series construction. The f/2 Macro, while well-built for its price point, has more plastic components and doesn’t feel quite as robust. However, it does offer some weather sealing, and I’ve found it to hold up well in normal shooting conditions.
Both lenses feature similar control layouts, with customizable control rings that can be assigned to various functions. I’ve set mine to control aperture, which allows for quick adjustments without taking my eye from the viewfinder.
Optical Performance
This is where the differences between these lenses become most apparent. The RF 85mm f/1.2L delivers exceptional optical quality throughout its aperture range. I’ve been consistently impressed with its sharpness, even when shot wide open at f/1.2. During a recent portrait session, I was able to capture detailed images with stunning clarity, even when shooting at the widest aperture.
The RF 85mm f/2 Macro produces good image quality, particularly when stopped down, but it doesn’t quite match the level of the f/1.2L, especially at wider apertures. At f/2, I’ve noticed some softness in the corners that improves significantly when stopped down to f/4 or f/5.6. For most portrait applications, this isn’t a major issue, as portraits typically focus on the center of the frame, but for critical work, the difference is noticeable.
Chromatic aberration is well-controlled in both lenses, but the f/1.2L has a clear advantage, particularly in high-contrast situations. While photographing subjects against bright backgrounds, I found the f/1.2L produced minimal color fringing, while the f/2 showed some purple fringing that required correction in post-processing.
Vignetting is more pronounced in the f/1.2L, especially when shot wide open. This is actually a characteristic that many portrait photographers find appealing, as it helps draw attention to the subject. The f/2 shows some vignetting as well, but to a lesser degree. Both lenses benefit from in-camera corrections when used with compatible Canon bodies.
Autofocus Performance
Both lenses feature advanced autofocus systems, but there are differences in real-world performance that I’ve noticed during extensive shooting. The RF 85mm f/1.2L utilizes Canon’s Ring USM focusing system, which provides fast, quiet, and accurate focusing. When paired with Canon’s advanced camera bodies like the R5 or R3, the autofocus performance is nothing short of remarkable.
During a portrait session with a moving subject, I was able to track eye focus with confidence, even when shooting wide open at f/1.2. The lens’s autofocus is decisive and locks onto subjects quickly, even in challenging lighting conditions. I’ve found it particularly effective for portrait photography where precise focus on the eyes is essential.
The RF 85mm f/2 Macro features Canon’s STM (Stepping Motor) focusing system, which is also fast and quiet. While not quite as sophisticated as the f/1.2L’s system, it still performs admirably for most situations. I’ve used it successfully for portrait sessions and even some event work without any focus issues. However, when photographing in very low light or with extremely shallow depth of field, I noticed a slightly lower keeper rate compared to the f/1.2L.
Both lenses work well with Canon’s advanced autofocus features like eye detection and face tracking, but the f/1.2L seems to take better advantage of these capabilities, particularly on higher-end bodies.
Low-Light Performance
This is where the RF 85mm f/1.2L truly shines. With its wider maximum aperture, it allows significantly more light to reach the sensor, making it ideal for low-light situations. During an evening portrait session in dim lighting, I was able to capture clean images at lower ISOs, resulting in better dynamic range and less noise.
The f/1.2 aperture also provides a much brighter viewfinder image, which makes composing and focusing easier in challenging lighting conditions. When photographing in dimly lit environments, this brighter view can make a significant difference in your ability to capture the moment.
The RF 85mm f/2 Macro, while still capable in low light, requires higher ISO settings or slower shutter speeds in the same conditions. With modern cameras performing well at higher ISOs, this isn’t as big a limitation as it once was, but it’s still a factor to consider for photographers who frequently shoot in low light.
However, the f/2 Macro has one significant advantage in low light: built-in image stabilization. The IS system provides up to 5 stops of stabilization according to CIPA standards, which can make a significant difference when shooting handheld in low light. During a recent indoor event, I was able to capture sharp images at slower shutter speeds thanks to the IS system, something that would have been much more challenging with the f/1.2L.
Macro Capabilities
This is one area where the RF 85mm f/2 Macro has a clear advantage. As its name suggests, it offers macro capabilities with a maximum magnification of 0.5x (1:2). This means you can get closer to your subjects and capture small details at half life-size.
I’ve found this macro capability incredibly useful for portrait photography, allowing me to capture details like jewelry, eyelashes, or textures with stunning clarity. During a recent beauty portrait session, I was able to capture detailed close-ups of the model’s eyes and makeup without changing lenses, which streamlined the workflow and maintained consistency in the images.
The RF 85mm f/1.2L, on the other hand, has a minimum focusing distance of about 0.85m (2.8 feet), which limits its ability to capture close-up details. While it can still be used for headshots and portraits, it doesn’t offer the same versatility for close-up work as the f/2 Macro.
Bokeh Quality
Bokeh—the quality of the out-of-focus areas in an image—is a critical factor for portrait lenses, and this is where both lenses excel but in different ways. The RF 85mm f/1.2L produces incredibly smooth, creamy bokeh when shot wide open, thanks to its wide aperture and advanced optical design. During a portrait session with a busy background, I was amazed at how beautifully the lens rendered the out-of-focus areas, creating a natural separation between the subject and background.
The 9-blade aperture of the f/1.2L creates pleasing circular highlights in the bokeh, which adds to the overall aesthetic quality of the images. I’ve found this particularly useful when shooting portraits with point light sources in the background, such as city lights or holiday decorations.
The RF 85mm f/2 Macro also produces beautiful bokeh, though with a different character. Its 11-blade aperture creates even more circular highlights, and the bokeh has a slightly more structured quality that many photographers find appealing. While it doesn’t have the same extreme background separation as the f/1.2L when both are shot wide open, it still produces excellent subject isolation.
I’ve discovered that the f/2 Macro’s bokeh has a unique quality that works particularly well for environmental portraits, where you want some context in the background while still maintaining subject separation. The f/1.2L, with its more extreme background blur, is ideal for traditional portraits where you want to completely separate the subject from the background.
Price and Value
The RF 85mm f/1.2L is priced at approximately $2,699, making it a premium option for professionals and serious enthusiasts. For the price, it offers exceptional optical quality and low-light performance. I’ve recommended this lens to numerous portrait photographers who demand the absolute best in image quality and are willing to invest in their craft.
The RF 85mm f/2 Macro, at around $599, represents incredible value for money. It delivers performance that punches well above its price point, making it accessible to a much wider range of photographers. For those just getting into portrait photography or on a tight budget, it’s an excellent entry point.
It’s worth considering the total cost of ownership as well. The f/1.2L’s more robust construction and professional-grade features suggest it’s likely to withstand years of heavy use, potentially making it more cost-effective in the long run for working photographers. However, the f/2 Macro’s versatility, with its macro capabilities and image stabilization, adds value that extends beyond traditional portrait photography.
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Real-World Performance
Portrait Photography
For portrait photography, both lenses excel, but in different ways. The RF 85mm f/1.2L is the clear choice when you want the ultimate in subject separation and low-light performance. During a recent portrait session with a professional model, I was able to capture stunning images with incredibly shallow depth of field, drawing attention to the subject’s eyes while creating a beautiful, dreamy background.
The lens’s ability to capture fine details and skin tones is remarkable. I’ve found that skin looks natural and three-dimensional with the f/1.2L, with a quality that’s hard to replicate with other lenses. During a beauty portrait session, the model was amazed at how the lens captured the subtle textures and colors of her skin and makeup.
The RF 85mm f/2 Macro also produces excellent portraits, with a slightly different character. While it doesn’t have the same extreme background separation as the f/1.2L, it still provides beautiful subject isolation, particularly when shot at f/2. I’ve found that portraits taken with this lens have a slightly more intimate, approachable quality that many clients prefer.
During a family portrait session, I appreciated the f/2 Macro’s lighter weight and image stabilization, which allowed me to shoot handheld for longer periods without fatigue. The ability to quickly switch to macro mode for close-up details also streamlined the workflow, allowing me to capture a variety of images without changing lenses.
Wedding Photography
For wedding photography, both lenses have their strengths, but the f/2 Macro might be the more versatile choice for most wedding photographers. During a recent wedding I shot, I found the f/2 Macro’s combination of portability, image stabilization, and macro capabilities made it an ideal all-around lens for the event.
I was able to capture everything from wide environmental portraits to intimate close-ups of details like rings and flowers without changing lenses. The image stabilization was particularly valuable during the reception, where lighting was dim and I needed to shoot handheld.
The f/1.2L, while exceptional for portraits, is less versatile for the varied situations encountered during a wedding day. Its larger size and weight can be fatiguing during a long event, and the lack of image stabilization means you need to be more careful about camera shake in low light.
That said, for formal portraits during a wedding, the f/1.2L is unmatched. During the portrait session of a recent wedding, I was able to capture stunning images of the couple with beautiful background separation and incredible detail, even in the challenging lighting of a dimly lit church.
Event Photography
For event photography, the f/2 Macro’s versatility gives it a clear advantage. Its lighter weight makes it more comfortable to carry for extended periods, and the image stabilization is invaluable when shooting in variable lighting conditions.
During a corporate event I covered last month, I found the f/2 Macro to be the perfect lens for the job. I was able to capture everything from wide shots of the venue to close-ups of speakers and attendees, all with a consistent look and feel. The macro capabilities also came in handy for capturing details of products and displays.
The f/1.2L, while capable for event photography, is more specialized. It excels at capturing portraits and details with beautiful background separation, but its larger size and weight make it less ideal for all-day event coverage.
Fine Art Photography
For fine art photography, both lenses have their place, depending on the artistic vision. The f/1.2L’s ability to create extremely shallow depth of field and its unique rendering of out-of-focus areas make it ideal for artistic portraits and abstract images.
During a fine art portrait project, I used the f/1.2L extensively to create images with a dreamy, ethereal quality. The lens’s ability to capture subtle nuances of light and color added to the artistic impact of the images.
The f/2 Macro, with its close-focusing capabilities, is ideal for fine art macro photography. I’ve used it to capture intimate details of nature, from the intricate patterns of leaves to the delicate structure of flowers. The lens’s sharpness and color rendering make it an excellent choice for this type of work.
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Who Should Choose Which Lens?
Choose the RF 85mm f/1.2L if:
- You’re a professional portrait photographer who demands the best image quality
- You frequently shoot in low-light conditions
- You prioritize maximum subject separation and bokeh quality
- You specialize in beauty and fashion photography
- You value build quality and weather sealing
- Budget is less of a concern than optical performance
Choose the RF 85mm f/2 Macro IS STM if:
- You’re on a budget but still want quality portrait performance
- You prioritize portability and lighter weight
- You want the versatility of macro capabilities
- You need image stabilization for handheld shooting
- You shoot a variety of genres beyond portraits
- You’re looking for excellent value in a multi-purpose lens
Pro Tips for 85mm Portrait Photography
After years of shooting with both lenses, I’ve learned a few techniques that can help you get the most out of either of these lenses:
- Master your aperture selection: With both lenses, aperture choice dramatically affects the look of your images. I typically shoot the f/1.2L between f/1.2 and f/2.8 for portraits, depending on how much background separation I want. With the f/2 Macro, I often shoot at f/2 for portraits and stop down to f/4 or f/5.6 for macro work.
- Use back-button focus: This technique separates autofocus activation from the shutter button, giving you more control over when and how the lens focuses. I’ve found this particularly useful for portrait photography, where I might want to focus and recompose without refocusing for each shot.
- Leverage eye detection autofocus: Both Canon’s R5 and R6 offer excellent eye detection autofocus that works beautifully with these lenses. I’ve programmed a custom button to activate eye detection, allowing me to quickly ensure sharp focus on my subject’s eyes.
- Experiment with different lighting conditions: Both lenses respond differently to various lighting situations. I’ve found that the f/1.2L excels in natural light, particularly during golden hour, while the f/2 Macro performs well in a variety of lighting conditions thanks to its image stabilization.
- Don’t forget about composition: It’s easy to get caught up in the technical aspects of these lenses, but composition is still key. I often use the rule of thirds when composing portraits with these lenses, placing the subject’s eyes along the upper third line for a more dynamic image.
- Use a reflector for fill light: When shooting portraits in natural light, I always carry a small reflector to fill in shadows. This is particularly important when using the f/1.2L at wide apertures, as the shallow depth of field can make shadows more pronounced.
FAQ
Is the RF 85mm f/1.2L worth the extra cost over the f/2 Macro?
For professional portrait photographers who demand the best image quality and low-light performance, the f/1.2L is absolutely worth the additional cost. However, for enthusiasts or those who need a more versatile lens, the f/2 Macro offers excellent value and performance.
Can I use these lenses for other types of photography besides portraits?
Yes, both lenses can be used for various types of photography. The f/1.2L is excellent for any situation where you need beautiful bokeh and low-light performance, while the f/2 Macro’s versatility makes it suitable for everything from events to macro photography.
Do I need image stabilization with an 85mm lens?
While not strictly necessary, image stabilization can be incredibly useful, especially when shooting handheld in low light. The f/2 Macro’s IS system provides up to 5 stops of stabilization, which can make a significant difference in image sharpness.
How do these lenses compare to their EF mount counterparts?
Both RF lenses offer improvements over their EF counterparts in terms of optical quality and autofocus performance. The RF 85mm f/1.2L is significantly sharper than the EF 85mm f/1.2L, especially when shot wide open.
Which lens is better for beginners?
The f/2 Macro is generally more beginner-friendly due to its lower price point, lighter weight, and image stabilization. The f/1.2L’s extremely shallow depth of field can be challenging for beginners to master.
Can I use these lenses with teleconverters?
The RF 85mm f/2 Macro is compatible with Canon’s RF 1.4x and 2x teleconverters, while the f/1.2L is not officially compatible with any teleconverters. I’ve experimented with using the 1.4x extender on the f/2 Macro for wildlife photography with surprisingly good results.
How do these lenses perform for video?
Both lenses can produce excellent video results, but they have different strengths. The f/1.2L offers beautiful bokeh and low-light performance, while the f/2 Macro’s image stabilization and smooth STM focusing make it better for handheld video work.
Which camera bodies work best with these lenses?
Both lenses work well with all RF-mount cameras, but they perform best with higher-end bodies like the R5 and R6, which feature more sophisticated autofocus systems and better ergonomics for balancing larger lenses.
Conclusion
After extensive shooting with both the RF 85mm f/1.2L and the RF 85mm f/2 Macro, I can tell you that both are exceptional lenses that serve different needs and budgets. The f/1.2L offers unparalleled optical quality and low-light performance, making it the perfect choice for professional portrait photographers who demand the best. The f/2 Macro, while less capable in terms of ultimate aperture, delivers remarkable value in a compact, versatile package that’s ideal for enthusiasts and photographers who need a multi-purpose lens.
For my personal work, I find myself reaching for the f/1.2L when I’m shooting professional portraits where image quality is paramount. The f/2 Macro becomes my choice when I’m traveling light, shooting events, or when I need macro capabilities without carrying an additional lens.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your specific needs, shooting style, and budget. Whichever lens you choose, you’ll be getting a quality optic that will serve you well for years to come.
If you found this comparison helpful, be sure to bookmark this page for future reference. I’ll be updating it as I continue to test these lenses with new camera bodies and in different shooting scenarios. And don’t forget to check out my other articles on portrait photography and Canon RF lenses!
Which of these lenses would you choose for your photography? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!