Canon 85Mm 1.4 is Vs 1.2: Lens Comparison

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Hey friends! As a seasoned photographer, I get excited about gear, especially when it’s the Canon 85Mm 1.4 is Vs 1.2. These lenses—the 85mm f/1.4L IS and the 85mm f/1.2L II—are portrait photography powerhouses. I’ve used both extensively, and I’m here to share my experiences to help you choose the right one. Let’s dive into what makes these lenses special.

The 85mm focal length is a portrait photographer’s dream. It delivers natural perspectives and gorgeous background blur. Both lenses are part of the prestigious L-series, but they cater to different needs. Grab a coffee, and let’s explore these lenses together.

Canon 85Mm 1.4 is Vs 1.2 Comparison

Lens Construction and Build

Build quality matters when I’m shooting in tough conditions. The 1.4L IS has a solid design with 14 elements in 10 groups and full weather sealing, perfect for light rain or dusty locations (Martin Bailey Photography). It’s lighter at 950 grams, which I appreciate during long shoots. Its 77mm filter size is also common, saving me from buying specialized filters.

The 1.2L II, with 8 elements in 7 groups and Super Spectra coating, has a premium, mostly metal build but only partial weather sealing. It’s heavier at 1025 grams, which can feel taxing after hours. Both lenses are durable, but the 1.4L IS’s lighter weight and full sealing make it my outdoor favorite. If you love a classic lens feel, the 1.2L II’s heft might suit you.

Aperture and Image Quality

Aperture is where these lenses shine differently. The 1.2L II’s f/1.2 aperture creates an incredibly shallow depth of field, ideal for isolating subjects with dreamy bokeh. The 1.4L IS, with its f/1.4 aperture, is impressively sharp wide open, often outperforming the 1.2L II at f/1.2 (Martin Bailey Photography). Its nine-blade diaphragm produces smooth, pleasing bokeh, though slightly different from the 1.2L II’s eight-blade design.

At a wedding with dim lighting, the 1.4L IS delivered tack-sharp images at f/1.4, even at high ISOs. The 1.2L II needed precise focusing due to its softer f/1.2 performance, but its background blur was unmatched. The 1.4L IS’s sharpness gives it an edge when stopped down. Both lenses excel, but your preference for sharpness or bokeh will guide your choice.

Bokeh Comparison

Bokeh is a big deal for portrait lenses. The 1.2L II’s bokeh is creamy and uniform, often described as legendary for its subtle, dreamy look (Tangents). The 1.4L IS’s bokeh is smooth but can appear busier due to its sharpness, which some photographers notice in detailed backgrounds. I’ve found the 1.2L II’s blur perfect for isolating subjects in busy settings.

In a studio shoot, the 1.2L II’s bokeh made subjects pop against soft backgrounds. The 1.4L IS held its own, but its sharper rendering sometimes highlighted background textures. Both are stunning, but the 1.2L II’s bokeh has a slight edge for that classic portrait look. Choose based on the aesthetic you want.

Autofocus and Usability

Fast autofocus is crucial for capturing fleeting moments. The 1.4L IS’s autofocus is snappy, locking onto subjects quickly during fashion shoots (SLR Lounge). Its 4-stop image stabilization lets me shoot handheld at 1/20th of a second without blur, a lifesaver at dusk. The traditional manual focus ring feels intuitive for fine adjustments.

The 1.2L II’s autofocus is slower but accurate, especially in low light. Without stabilization, I’m cautious with shutter speeds to avoid shake. Its focus-by-wire manual focus feels less direct than the 1.4L IS’s. During a fast-paced event, the 1.4L IS’s speed kept up, while the 1.2L II occasionally lagged.

Image Stabilization

Image stabilization is a game-changer at 85mm, where shake is noticeable. The 1.4L IS’s 4-stop stabilization lets me shoot at slow shutter speeds and still get sharp images (The-Digital-Picture). At an indoor event with dim lighting, I captured crisp shots without a tripod. It’s a huge advantage for handheld work.

The 1.2L II lacks stabilization, so I rely on faster shutter speeds or a tripod. This can limit creativity in low light without extra gear. For me, the 1.4L IS’s stabilization makes it more versatile. If you’re tripod-savvy, the 1.2L II’s lack of IS might not bother you.

Weather Sealing and Durability

Durability is key for my gear investments. The 1.4L IS’s full weather sealing has saved me during unexpected rain on location shoots (Versus). Its fluorine coating repels water, making cleaning easy. I once shot in light rain confidently, knowing the lens could handle it.

The 1.2L II, with partial weather sealing, makes me cautious in harsh conditions. It’s still tough, but I avoid heavy dust or rain. The 1.4L IS’s robust sealing gives me more freedom outdoors. If you mostly shoot indoors, the 1.2L II’s sealing might suffice.

Handling and Ergonomics

Ergonomics matter during long shoots. The 1.4L IS has a modern design with a grippy, rubberized focus ring, even with gloves (The-Digital-Picture). Its lighter weight reduces fatigue, and the internal focusing keeps it compact. The customizable control ring is handy for quick adjustments.

The 1.2L II’s metal build and focus-by-wire focus feel classic but less intuitive. It extends slightly when focusing close, which can be a minor hassle. Both lenses are large, but the 1.4L IS’s design feels more comfortable. If you prefer a traditional feel, the 1.2L II might appeal.

Real-world Performance

In real-world scenarios, these lenses shine differently. For weddings, the 1.4L IS’s stabilization and fast autofocus make it ideal for handheld shooting in varied lighting (SLR Lounge). I’ve captured candid moments without blur, even in dim receptions. Its weather sealing adds confidence outdoors.

In studio portraits, the 1.2L II’s f/1.2 aperture creates unmatched bokeh, perfect for dramatic headshots. The creamy blur isolates subjects beautifully, especially for close-ups. I’ve used it for fashion shoots where the extra light gathering allowed lower ISOs, reducing noise.

For low-light fashion photography, the 1.2L II excels but requires stable techniques without stabilization. I often use a monopod to ensure sharpness. The 1.4L IS’s versatility makes it my go-to for most scenarios, but the 1.2L II’s bokeh is hard to beat in controlled settings.

When comparing the Canon 85Mm 1.4 is Vs 1.2 in action, the 1.4L IS suits dynamic environments, while the 1.2L II is a studio star. Your shooting style will dictate the better choice. Both deliver exceptional results, but their strengths shine in specific contexts.

Comparison Table

AspectCanon 85mm f/1.4L ISCanon 85mm f/1.2L II
Maximum Aperturef/1.4f/1.2
Lens Construction14 elements in 10 groups, fluorine coating8 elements in 7 groups, Super Spectra coating
AutofocusFast, high accuracy, image stabilizationModerate speed, high accuracy in low light
Build & DesignFull weather sealing, lighter (950g)Partial weather sealing, heavier (1025g)
Image QualitySharp at f/1.4, smooth bokehSofter at f/1.2, creamy bokeh
Filter Size77mm72mm
Focus TypeTraditional manual focusFocus-by-wire
Image Stabilization4-stop ISNone

Decision-Making: Which Lens Is Right for You?

Choosing between the Canon 85Mm 1.4 is Vs 1.2 depends on your priorities. The 1.4L IS is my pick for versatility, thanks to its stabilization, faster autofocus, and weather sealing (The-Digital-Picture). It’s perfect for weddings, outdoor shoots, or low-light events where mobility matters. I’ve relied on it for sharp, reliable results in tough conditions.

The 1.2L II is ideal if you prioritize maximum aperture and creamy bokeh. Its f/1.2 aperture creates a unique look, perfect for studio portraits or controlled settings where bokeh is king. It’s less versatile but unbeatable for that dreamy aesthetic. If you’re a portrait artist chasing that signature blur, this lens delivers.

Consider your shooting style. If you need a lens for varied conditions, the 1.4L IS is likely the better choice. If bokeh is your top priority, the 1.2L II’s magic is worth it. Both are exceptional, so you can’t go wrong.

FAQ

1. Which lens is sharper?
The 1.4L IS is generally sharper at f/1.4 than the 1.2L II at f/1.2. Both excel when stopped down. Sharpness depends on your aperture needs.

2. Does the 1.2L II have better bokeh?
The 1.2L II’s bokeh is smoother and creamier due to its f/1.2 aperture. The 1.4L IS’s bokeh is excellent but slightly busier. It’s a matter of preference.

3. Is image stabilization necessary for an 85mm lens?
Stabilization helps in low light, allowing slower shutter speeds without blur. It’s not essential but very useful. The 1.4L IS has it; the 1.2L II doesn’t.

4. Can I use both lenses on my camera body?
Yes, both use the EF mount, compatible with EOS cameras, including full-frame and APS-C. They work with adapters on mirrorless bodies. Check your camera’s mount.

5. Are there compatibility issues with newer Canon cameras?
Both work on EOS R-series cameras with an EF-EOS R adapter (Canon USA). Autofocus is reliable, but native RF lenses may integrate better.

6. Which is better for video?
The 1.4L IS’s stabilization reduces shake in handheld video. Both produce high-quality footage. Choose the 1.4L IS for smoother handheld shots.

7. Do they work with Dual Pixel CMOS AF?
Yes, both support Dual Pixel CMOS AF for smooth autofocus in video and live view. Performance is solid on compatible bodies. The 1.4L IS may focus faster.

8. Are there differences in color rendition or contrast?
Both deliver high contrast and accurate colors. The 1.2L II may produce slightly warmer tones. Differences are subtle and correctable in post.

9. Can I use the 1.2L II on a Canon EOS R camera?
Yes, with the EF-EOS R adapter, it performs well, especially with eye autofocus (B-Vong). Native RF lenses may offer better speed.

10. How do these lenses perform with Canon’s latest bodies?
Both work well on bodies like the EOS R5, but the 1.4L IS’s faster autofocus complements high-speed cameras better. The 1.2L II is still excellent for bokeh. Test with your body for best results.

I hope this breakdown helps you choose between these incredible lenses. Both are fantastic tools, and your decision depends on what you value most—versatility or that extra bokeh magic. Let me know if you have more questions!

callofphotography.com
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I am a photography enthusiast turned blogger, sharing my passion and expertise on this blog, "CallofPhotography." Growing up surrounded by nature, I developed a love for capturing moments through my lens. After studying Fine Arts with a focus on photography, I launched my blog to share tutorials, gear reviews, and my own photographic work. Through engaging storytelling, I invites readers to join her visual journey, inspiring and empowering photographers of all levels worldwide.

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