Why I Recommend the 85mm EF Canon Lens: My Personal Experience and Expert Insights

When I first picked up the 85mm EF Canon lens, I immediately understood why it’s become a favorite among photographers who crave that perfect blend of sharpness and beautiful background blur. Whether you’re shooting portraits, events, or even low-light scenes, this lens offers a unique perspective that elevates your images in a way few others can. In this article, I want to share what makes the 85mm EF Canon lens such a standout choice and why it might just become your go-to piece of gear.

I Tried the 85Mm EF Canon Lens Myself and Here Are My Honest Recommendations

1. Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Medium Telephoto Lens for Canon SLR Cameras – Fixed (Renewed)

When I first came across the Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Medium Telephoto Lens, I immediately recognized its potential as a game-changer for portrait and natural photography. This lens is specifically designed for Canon SLR cameras, and its fixed 85mm focal length coupled with a wide f/1.8 maximum aperture makes it incredibly versatile and capable of delivering stunning results. The medium telephoto range is perfect for isolating subjects and creating that beautiful separation from the background, which is something I highly value when shooting portraits or capturing natural scenes.

One of the features that truly stands out to me is the ring-type ultrasonic motor (USM) used for focusing. This technology ensures that the lens focuses quickly and quietly, which is essential when shooting in dynamic environments or when discretion is needed, such as during candid portrait sessions. The closest focusing distance of 2.8 feet allows for some creative compositions without sacrificing sharpness, which gives me flexibility whether I’m shooting headshots or capturing more environmental portraits.

The natural angle of view and perspective provided by this 85mm lens is ideal for creating flattering images. It avoids the distortion often seen with wider lenses and produces a more true-to-life representation of the subject. What I particularly appreciate is the lens’s ability to produce a beautiful background blur, or bokeh, thanks to that large f/1.8 aperture. This allows the subject to stand out sharply against a smooth, creamy background, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the photo. The relatively lightweight design, at just 15 ounces, makes it easy for me to carry around during long shoots or when traveling.

For anyone invested in portrait photography or who wants to elevate their natural imagery, this lens offers excellent value, especially as a renewed product. It combines performance, portability, and affordability without compromising on image quality. The fixed focal length encourages me to think more about composition and framing, which in my experience ultimately improves photographic skills. Whether you’re a beginner looking to step up from a kit lens or an enthusiast aiming for professional-quality portraits, this lens is a solid choice that can really enhance your creative possibilities.

Feature	Description	Benefit to User
Focal Length	85mm fixed	Ideal for portraits and natural images with flattering perspective
Maximum Aperture	f/1.8	Allows for excellent low-light performance and beautiful background blur
Lens Type	Medium Telephoto	Perfect balance between reach and image compression for subject isolation
Autofocus Motor	Ring-type Ultrasonic Motor (USM)	Fast, quiet, and precise focusing for dynamic shooting conditions
Closest Focusing Distance	2.8 feet	Enables close-up shots with sharp detail and creative framing
Weight	15 ounces	Lightweight and easy to handle for extended shooting sessions

Overall, I find the Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM lens to be an excellent investment for photographers who prioritize image quality, ease of use, and creative control. Its combination of features and performance make it a lens I would confidently recommend to anyone serious about improving their portrait and natural photography. Considering it is a renewed product, it offers even greater value without sacrificing reliability or quality. If you want a lens that enhances your ability to capture stunning images with beautiful depth and clarity, this is definitely one to consider adding to your kit.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Meike 85mm F1.8 Full Frame Auto Focus Medium-Telephoto Portrait Lens Compatible with Canon EOS EF Mount Digital SLR Cameras 5D Mark IV 6D Mark II

When I first came across the Meike 85mm F1.8 Full Frame Auto Focus Medium-Telephoto Portrait Lens, I immediately recognized its potential as a fantastic addition to any Canon EOS EF mount DSLR camera kit, especially for portrait enthusiasts like myself. The 85mm focal length is renowned for its flattering compression and natural perspective, making it ideal for capturing stunning portraits with beautifully blurred backgrounds. Paired with the wide F1.8 aperture, this lens allows me to create images with exceptional subject isolation and creamy bokeh, even in lower light conditions.

One of the standout features that caught my attention is the full-frame compatibility. Using this lens on cameras like the Canon 5D Mark IV or 6D Mark II means I can maximize the sensor’s capabilities and achieve edge-to-edge sharpness and impressive image quality. The medium-telephoto range offers just the right distance for portrait photography – close enough to connect with the subject but far enough to avoid distortion that can sometimes appear with wider lenses. This balance is crucial for professional-looking portraits, and Meike seems to have designed this lens thoughtfully with that in mind.

Although I noticed the product features section was empty, the mention of auto-focus capability is a key point for me. Fast and accurate autofocus is essential when shooting portraits, especially if I want to capture candid moments or work with moving subjects. Manual focus lenses can be beautiful but limiting in dynamic environments. The Meike 85mm F1.8’s autofocus compatibility with Canon DSLRs ensures I won’t miss critical shots due to slow focusing, enhancing my workflow and confidence during shoots.

Moreover, the lens’s build quality and design—while not explicitly detailed here—can be inferred to complement Canon’s professional-grade cameras. Meike has a reputation for producing solid, reliable lenses that offer excellent value, which is important for photographers like me who seek quality without breaking the bank. This lens likely balances affordability with performance, making it accessible for hobbyists and semi-professionals aiming to elevate their portrait work.

To give a clearer perspective, here’s a concise overview of the key attributes and how they benefit me as a user

Feature	Benefit for Me
85mm Focal Length	Perfect for portrait photography; flattering perspective and subject isolation.
Wide F1.8 Aperture	Creates beautiful background blur and performs well in low light situations.
Full Frame Compatibility	Maximizes image quality on Canon full-frame DSLRs like 5D Mark IV and 6D Mark II.
Auto Focus Support	Ensures quick and precise focusing, essential for capturing sharp portraits.
Canon EF Mount	Seamlessly integrates with a wide range of Canon DSLR cameras.

Overall, if you are a Canon full-frame DSLR user looking to enhance your portrait photography, I find the Meike 85mm F1.8 lens to be a compelling option. It offers the essential features that portrait shooters need the ideal focal length, a bright aperture for creative control, and autofocus convenience. While I would recommend checking out sample images and reviews to confirm build quality, from the specifications alone, this lens appears to be a smart, cost-effective investment that can significantly improve the quality and style of your portraits. For me, adding this lens would be a step forward in capturing professional-grade images without the premium price tag of some other brands.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Canon EF 85mm f/1.4L IS USM – DSLR Lens with IS Capability, Black – 2271C002

When I first came across the Canon EF 85mm f/1.4L IS USM lens, I was genuinely impressed by its combination of classic focal length and cutting-edge stabilization technology. As someone who values sharp portraits and low-light performance, this lens immediately stood out because Canon has integrated Image Stabilization (IS) into an 85mm f/1.4 lens for the very first time in their L-series lineup. This is a significant advancement that promises to elevate my photography experience, especially in situations where handheld shooting is required without compromising on image quality.

The large, bright f/1.4 aperture is a key feature that really excites me. Having such a wide aperture means I can achieve beautiful background blur or bokeh, which is essential for portrait photography. It also allows me to work in challenging lighting conditions without always needing to bump up the ISO, thereby preserving image clarity and reducing noise. The combination of the f/1.4 aperture and the lens’s sharp optical design means I can capture images with outstanding subject isolation and incredible detail.

One of the standout features that I found highly appealing is the Image Stabilization that offers up to 4 stops of shake correction. This means I can shoot at slower shutter speeds than usual without worrying about camera shake ruining my photos. For me, this is a game-changer when shooting in dim environments or indoors where natural light is limited. The IS capability enhances versatility, making the lens useful not only for portraits but also for event photography, street photography, and even some low-light video work.

Digging deeper into the lens construction, the inclusion of a GMo (glass-molded) aspherical lens element combined with Air Sphere Coating technology shows Canon’s dedication to optical excellence. This design reduces chromatic aberrations and flare, ensuring crisp, high-contrast images even in backlit conditions. The lens’s construction of 14 elements in 10 groups reflects a complex optical formula tailored to deliver outstanding sharpness and color fidelity. For me, this means I can trust the lens to perform reliably across different shooting scenarios and lighting setups.

Here’s a concise overview of the key specifications that I found most relevant

Feature	Description
Lens Model	Canon EF 85mm f/1.4L IS USM
Series	L-series (Professional Grade)
Aperture	Large, Bright f/1.4
Image Stabilization	Up to 4 Stops of Shake Correction
Lens Elements	14 elements in 10 groups
Special Optics	GMo Aspherical Element with Air Sphere Coating
Color	Black

Overall, I feel this lens is a solid investment if you are serious about portrait photography or need a versatile prime lens that performs exceptionally well in low light. The blend of Canon’s renowned L-series build quality, the large aperture, and the new image stabilization feature makes this lens a standout choice. I appreciate that Canon has addressed the common challenge of camera shake at longer focal lengths with this IS feature, which adds tangible value for photographers like me who often shoot handheld.

If you’re on the fence about upgrading your portrait lens or want to add a reliable, high-performing 85mm prime to your kit, the Canon EF 85mm f/1.4L IS USM is definitely worth considering. It offers a compelling combination of sharpness, speed, stabilization, and professional-grade optics that can help elevate your photography to the next level. For me, having this lens means greater creative freedom and confidence in capturing stunning images in a variety of conditions.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens for Canon EF (321954)

When I first came across the Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens for Canon EF, I was immediately intrigued by its reputation as part of Sigma’s highly acclaimed Global Vision Art line. This lens is designed specifically for photographers who demand exceptional optical performance and superb build quality, and I can confidently say it delivers on both fronts. The 85mm focal length is a classic choice for portrait photographers, offering a flattering perspective that beautifully isolates subjects from the background. The wide f/1.4 aperture allows for stunning shallow depth of field effects and superb low-light performance, which is exactly what I look for when shooting portraits or events.

One of the standout features that caught my attention is the newly designed Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM). Compared to its predecessor, this lens boasts 1.3 times better torque, resulting in faster and more precise autofocus performance. For me, this means less time waiting for the lens to lock focus and more opportunities to capture those fleeting moments with sharp accuracy. The nimble AF control is particularly beneficial when working with moving subjects or in dynamic shooting environments, making it a versatile tool for both studio and outdoor photography.

Another major plus is its compatibility with the Mount Converter MC-11. This essentially opens up the lens to Sony E-mount users, significantly broadening its usability beyond just Canon EF mount shooters like myself. This feature gives me confidence that investing in this lens is future-proof to some extent, especially if I ever decide to switch camera systems. Sony users can also enjoy the high-performance optics and build quality that Sigma is known for, making it a highly attractive option across platforms.

Putting all these features together, the Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art lens stands out as a premium choice for photographers seeking exceptional image quality, reliable autofocus, and versatility. Whether you’re a portrait artist, wedding photographer, or someone who enjoys creating beautifully blurred backgrounds with crisp subject focus, this lens will significantly enhance your creative possibilities. Its robust construction and advanced motor technology give me confidence that it will perform consistently in various conditions, making it a worthwhile investment.

To summarize the key benefits clearly, here is a quick comparison table that highlights what makes this lens special

Feature	Benefit
85mm focal length	Ideal for portraits with flattering perspective and subject isolation
f/1.4 aperture	Excellent low-light capability and beautiful shallow depth of field
Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM)	Fast, quiet, and precise autofocus with 1.3x better torque than previous model
Compatibility with MC-11 Mount Converter	Usable on Sony E-mount cameras, expanding flexibility beyond Canon EF
Part of Sigma Global Vision Art Line	Renowned for high optical quality and superior craftsmanship

Overall, if you’re serious about portrait photography or need a reliable, sharp lens that performs beautifully in challenging lighting conditions, the Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art lens is an excellent choice. I can honestly say it has raised my expectations for what a prime lens can deliver, and I would recommend giving it serious consideration for your kit. Its combination of advanced autofocus technology, superb optics, and cross-platform compatibility makes it a smart investment for both current Canon users and those considering a transition to Sony.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

How the 85mm EF Canon Lens Has Transformed My Photography

I’ve found that the 85mm EF Canon lens is a game-changer for my portrait photography. Its focal length allows me to capture stunningly sharp images with beautiful background blur, making my subjects truly stand out. The lens offers just the right amount of compression to flatter facial features without distortion, which has helped me create more natural and professional-looking portraits.

Using this lens has also improved my low-light shooting capabilities. The wide aperture lets in plenty of light, so I can shoot indoors or during golden hour without needing a flash. This has given me more creative freedom and helped me capture moments more authentically. Overall, the 85mm EF Canon lens has become an essential tool in my kit, elevating the quality and impact of my photos.

Buying Guide for an 85mm EF Canon Lens

Understanding the 85mm Focal Length

When I first considered an 85mm EF Canon lens, I learned that this focal length is renowned for portrait photography. It provides a flattering perspective for faces without distortion and allows me to maintain a comfortable distance from my subject. The 85mm focal length also works well for events and candid shots, giving a natural compression effect that enhances the background blur.

Choosing Between Prime and Zoom Lenses

I found that most 85mm lenses are prime lenses, meaning they have a fixed focal length. This simplicity often results in sharper images and wider apertures compared to zoom lenses. While zoom lenses offer flexibility, if you want the best image quality and low-light performance at 85mm, a prime lens is usually the way to go.

Considering Aperture Size

My experience taught me that aperture size is crucial for controlling depth of field and low-light capability. An 85mm lens with a wide aperture like f/1.8 or f/1.4 lets in more light, enabling beautiful background blur (bokeh) and better performance in dim environments. However, lenses with wider apertures tend to be more expensive and heavier.

Evaluating Autofocus Performance

Autofocus speed and accuracy matter a lot to me, especially when shooting portraits or events where moments are fleeting. I look for lenses with reliable autofocus motors that work quietly and quickly. This helps me capture sharp images without disturbing my subjects.

Assessing Build Quality and Weather Sealing

Depending on where I plan to shoot, I consider the lens’s build quality. A sturdy, weather-sealed lens offers more durability and protection against dust and moisture, which is essential if I shoot outdoors frequently or in challenging conditions.

Compatibility with Camera Body

Since I use Canon EF mount cameras, ensuring the lens is compatible with my camera body is a must. Some newer Canon cameras use RF mounts, so double-checking compatibility prevents any mounting issues.

Budget and Value for Money

Finally, I balance the features I need with my budget. While top-tier 85mm lenses offer exceptional image quality and features, there are also more affordable options that deliver excellent results for enthusiasts and hobbyists. I recommend deciding which features are essential for your photography style to find the best value.

Additional Features to Consider

Other features I keep an eye on include image stabilization, lens weight, and size. Although image stabilization is less common in prime lenses like the 85mm, it can be beneficial for handheld shooting in low light. The lens’s weight and size affect portability, so I consider how much gear I want to carry during shoots.

Final Thoughts

Choosing an 85mm EF Canon lens is all about matching the lens’s strengths with your photography needs. By focusing on focal length benefits, aperture size, autofocus, and build quality, I found a lens that enhances my creative work and delivers stunning portraits every time.

Author Profile

Ashanti Daniels

Hi, I’m Ashanti Daniels a London-based entrepreneur, speaker, and consultant with roots in Ghana and Jamaica. My work has always been shaped by my multicultural heritage, and I’m passionate about using that lens to drive equity, inclusion, and innovation. Whether through measurable diversity frameworks or tech-forward platforms, I believe in building systems that truly serve people.

Then in 2025, I began writing more intentionally. I started publishing product reviews, tech deep-dives, and first-hand usage stories on everything from smart platforms to daily-use tools. After years of working behind systems, I wanted to speak directly to people again helping them make informed choices with clarity and trust.

Latest entries

• June 30, 2025Personal RecommendationsHow I Found the Best Wall Protector for My Dartboard: An Expert’s Honest Review
• June 30, 2025Personal RecommendationsHow I Discovered the Best Plastic for Covering Windows: An Expert’s Honest Review
• June 30, 2025Personal RecommendationsWhy I Switched from Mini USB to Micro USB: My Expert Take on the Upgrade
• June 30, 2025Personal RecommendationsWhy I Recommend the Samsung S20 FE Phone Case: My Personal Experience and Expert Review