Canon 85Mm 1.4 is Vs 1.2: Lens Comparison
Choosing between the Canon 85mm f/1.4 and f/1.2 can be tough. Both lenses offer great features and performance.
In this comparison, we will explore the key differences between these two popular lenses. Photographers often debate which one is better for portraits, low-light conditions, or overall image quality. Understanding these differences helps you make an informed decision. Whether you’re a professional or an enthusiastic amateur, knowing what each lens offers can improve your photography experience.
We’ll examine aspects like sharpness, bokeh, build quality, and price. By the end, you’ll have a clearer idea of which Canon 85mm lens fits your needs best. Let’s dive into the details and find out which one suits you better.
Table of Contents
- Introduction To Canon 85mm Lenses
- Brief History
- Popularity Among Photographers
- Key Specifications
- Lens Construction
- Aperture Range
- Image Quality
- Sharpness
- Bokeh
- Autofocus Performance
- Speed
- Accuracy
- Build And Design
- Material Quality
- Weather Sealing
- Usability And Handling
- Weight And Balance
- Ease Of Use
- Price And Value
- Cost Comparison
- Value For Money
- Conclusion And Recommendations
- Best Choice For Professionals
- Best Choice For Enthusiasts
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What Are The Main Differences Between Canon 85mm 1.4 And 1.2?
- Which Lens Is Better For Portrait Photography?
- Is The Canon 85mm 1.4 More Affordable Than The 1.2?
- Do Both Lenses Have Image Stabilization?
- Conclusion
- CallofPhotography
Introduction To Canon 85mm Lenses
The Canon 85mm lenses have a prominent place in photography. These lenses are famous for their excellent image quality and portrait capabilities. The Canon 85mm 1.4 IS and 1.2 lenses are both top choices for photographers. Each has its unique features and benefits.
Brief History
Canon released its first 85mm lens in the mid-20th century. Over the years, Canon improved its lenses with better technology and design. The 85mm lenses became popular for their sharp images and smooth background blur. The 1.2 version was introduced in 2006, becoming an instant favorite. The 1.4 IS version came later, offering image stabilization and faster autofocus.
Popularity Among Photographers
Many photographers prefer the Canon 85mm lenses for portrait photography. The 1.2 lens is known for its shallow depth of field. It creates stunning background blur, making subjects stand out. The 1.4 IS lens is praised for its image stabilization. This feature helps in low light situations, reducing camera shake. Both lenses are valued for their sharpness and build quality.
Key Specifications
When comparing the Canon 85mm 1.4 IS and 1.2 lenses, it’s essential to look at their key specifications. These details help photographers choose the right lens for their needs. Below, we will discuss two crucial aspects: lens construction and aperture range.
Lens Construction
The Canon 85mm 1.4 IS lens features a robust build. It has 14 elements in 10 groups. This design ensures excellent image quality. The lens includes a fluorine coating. This coating reduces smudges and fingerprints. It also has weather sealing to protect against dust and moisture.
On the other hand, the Canon 85mm 1.2 lens offers a different construction. It has 8 elements in 7 groups. This simpler design focuses on image sharpness and clarity. The lens also includes a Super Spectra coating. This coating minimizes ghosting and flare. However, it lacks weather sealing.
Aperture Range
The Canon 85mm 1.4 IS lens has a maximum aperture of f/1.4. This wide aperture allows more light into the lens. It is excellent for low-light photography. The lens also provides beautiful background blur. The minimum aperture of this lens is f/22. It offers a broad range for various shooting conditions.
Conversely, the Canon 85mm 1.2 lens has an even wider aperture. Its maximum aperture is f/1.2. This aperture creates an even shallower depth of field. It produces stunning bokeh. The lens is perfect for portrait photography. The minimum aperture of this lens is f/16. This range is slightly narrower but still versatile.
Image Quality
When choosing between the Canon 85mm 1.4 IS and 1.2 lenses, image quality is key. Both lenses are popular among photographers for their superb performance. Yet, there are differences. Let’s explore the aspects of sharpness and bokeh.
Sharpness
The Canon 85mm 1.4 IS lens offers exceptional sharpness. From the center to the edges, details are crisp. This lens performs well even at wider apertures. On the other hand, the Canon 85mm 1.2 lens is also sharp but shines best at smaller apertures. At f/1.2, the images are softer. This softness can be an advantage for portrait photography. It gives a dreamy look to the images. Both lenses deliver sharp images, yet the 1.4 IS is sharper wide open.
Bokeh
Bokeh is another important aspect of image quality. The Canon 85mm 1.4 IS lens produces smooth, creamy bokeh. Backgrounds melt away, making the subject stand out. The 1.2 lens, with its wider aperture, creates even more pronounced bokeh. The background blur is more intense. For those who love bokeh, the 1.2 lens offers a unique look. Each lens has its own bokeh characteristics. The choice depends on the photographer’s preference.
Autofocus Performance
When choosing between the Canon 85mm 1.4 and 1.2, autofocus performance plays a vital role. Both lenses offer unique advantages in terms of speed and accuracy. Understanding these differences can help you make an informed decision.
Speed
The Canon 85mm f/1.4 lens is known for its fast autofocus speed. It uses a high-speed CPU and optimized AF algorithms. This makes it a great choice for capturing fast-moving subjects.
On the other hand, the Canon 85mm f/1.2 lens is slightly slower. It is designed for portrait photography where speed is less critical. The focus motor in the 1.2 lens prioritizes precision over speed.
Lens | Autofocus Speed |
---|---|
Canon 85mm f/1.4 | Fast |
Canon 85mm f/1.2 | Moderate |
Accuracy
Both lenses offer high autofocus accuracy, but there are slight differences. The Canon 85mm f/1.4 lens has a slight edge in accuracy. It features image stabilization, which helps in achieving sharp focus, especially in low light conditions.
The Canon 85mm f/1.2 lens is also highly accurate. Its wide aperture allows more light to enter the lens, improving focus in dim conditions. However, its slower speed means it may take longer to lock focus.
Here’s a breakdown:
- Canon 85mm f/1.4: High accuracy with image stabilization
- Canon 85mm f/1.2: High accuracy, especially in low light
In summary, while both lenses excel in autofocus performance, the 1.4 lens offers faster speed, whereas the 1.2 lens provides more light for focus in dim environments.
Build And Design
When comparing the Canon 85mm 1.4 IS and 1.2 lenses, the build and design play a crucial role. Both lenses boast exceptional craftsmanship, but there are distinct differences. Let’s dive into the specifics of their material quality and weather sealing.
Material Quality
The Canon 85mm 1.4 IS features a sturdy build made from a mix of metal and high-quality plastic. This combination ensures durability without adding excessive weight. The lens feels solid and well-balanced, making it comfortable to handle during long shoots.
On the other hand, the Canon 85mm 1.2 is constructed predominantly with metal. This gives it a more premium feel and adds to its robustness. The all-metal design can withstand heavier usage, making it ideal for professional photographers.
Weather Sealing
Weather sealing is a crucial factor for outdoor photographers. The Canon 85mm 1.4 IS comes with full weather sealing. It provides protection against dust and moisture, ensuring reliable performance in challenging conditions.
Meanwhile, the Canon 85mm 1.2 lacks comprehensive weather sealing. It does offer some level of protection but isn’t fully sealed. This makes it less suitable for extreme weather conditions.
Feature | Canon 85mm 1.4 IS | Canon 85mm 1.2 |
---|---|---|
Material Quality | Metal and high-quality plastic | Predominantly metal |
Weather Sealing | Full weather sealing | Partial weather sealing |
Both lenses offer excellent build quality. The choice between them depends on your specific needs and shooting environment.
Usability And Handling
When comparing the Canon 85mm 1.4 IS and 1.2 lenses, usability and handling play a significant role in the decision-making process. This section will break down the weight and balance, and ease of use of both lenses, providing a clearer picture for potential buyers.
Weight And Balance
The Canon 85mm 1.4 IS lens is lighter. It weighs around 950 grams. This weight difference makes it easier to carry. The 1.2 lens is heavier. It weighs approximately 1025 grams. The extra weight can affect balance. The 1.4 IS lens feels more balanced on most cameras. The lighter weight and better balance make it more comfortable for long shoots.
Ease Of Use
The Canon 85mm 1.4 IS lens has image stabilization. This feature helps reduce camera shake. It allows for sharper images, even in low light. The 1.2 lens lacks image stabilization. This can make it harder to use without a tripod. The autofocus on the 1.4 IS lens is faster. It is more accurate too. The 1.2 lens has a slower autofocus. It may struggle in some situations. The 1.4 IS lens is more user-friendly for most photographers.
Price And Value
Choosing between the Canon 85mm 1.4 IS and 1.2 lenses can be tough. Both lenses offer amazing features. But for many, price and value play a big role. Let’s explore the cost and value of these lenses.
Cost Comparison
When comparing the Canon 85mm 1.4 IS and 1.2, there is a significant difference in price. Here is a breakdown of the costs:
Lens Model | Approximate Price |
---|---|
Canon 85mm 1.4 IS | $1,599 |
Canon 85mm 1.2 | $2,099 |
The Canon 85mm 1.4 IS is more affordable. It costs around $500 less than the 1.2.
Value For Money
Value for money is crucial for many photographers. The Canon 85mm 1.4 IS offers image stabilization. This feature helps in low light conditions. It also helps in handheld shooting.
The Canon 85mm 1.2, on the other hand, provides a wider aperture. This helps in achieving a shallow depth of field. It’s great for portrait photography.
Both lenses have their pros and cons. The 1.4 IS is more budget-friendly. It also offers image stabilization. The 1.2 is pricier but offers a unique aperture. Evaluate your needs to decide which lens gives you the best value.
Conclusion And Recommendations
Choosing between the Canon 85mm 1. 4 and 1. 2 lenses depends on your photography needs. The 1. 4 lens offers faster focusing, while the 1. 2 provides better low-light performance. Evaluate your priorities to make the best decision.
Choosing between the Canon 85mm 1.4 IS and 1.2 lenses can be tough. Both lenses excel in different areas. Understanding your needs is key. Below are our recommendations for different user groups.Best Choice For Professionals
Professionals need reliability and top-notch image quality. The Canon 85mm 1.2 lens delivers stunning sharpness. The bokeh effect is exceptional. Its wider aperture allows more light. This makes it ideal for low-light settings. Portrait photographers will love its creamy background blur. The 1.2 lens is heavier and more expensive. But, the investment pays off in quality.Best Choice For Enthusiasts
Enthusiasts seek a balance of quality and convenience. The Canon 85mm 1.4 IS is lighter. It includes image stabilization. This feature reduces camera shake. It’s handy for handheld shots. The 1.4 aperture is still wide enough for beautiful bokeh. It’s more affordable than the 1.2 lens. Enthusiasts will appreciate its versatility. It’s a great all-around lens. “`Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Main Differences Between Canon 85mm 1.4 And 1.2?
The Canon 85mm 1. 4 has faster autofocus and image stabilization. The 1. 2 offers superior bokeh and low-light performance. Both have excellent image quality.
Which Lens Is Better For Portrait Photography?
The Canon 85mm 1. 2 is preferred for portrait photography due to its superior bokeh. However, the 1. 4 is also excellent, with faster autofocus.
Is The Canon 85mm 1.4 More Affordable Than The 1.2?
Yes, the Canon 85mm 1. 4 is generally more affordable than the 1. 2. It offers great value with its advanced features.
Do Both Lenses Have Image Stabilization?
No, only the Canon 85mm 1. 4 has image stabilization. The 1. 2 does not include this feature.
Conclusion
Choosing between the Canon 85mm 1. 4 and 1. 2 lenses depends on your needs. The 1. 4 lens offers faster autofocus and better image stabilization. The 1. 2 lens provides superior background blur, perfect for portraits. Both lenses deliver sharp, high-quality images.
Consider your budget and shooting style. Each lens has unique strengths. Evaluate what matters most for your photography. This decision will enhance your creative work. Happy shooting!
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.