The Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L II USM is the definitive portrait prime in Canon’s prestigious L-series lineup, engineered for full-frame EF-mount DSLRs and fully compatible with APS-C bodies at an equivalent 136mm. Its breathtaking f/1.2 maximum aperture delivers unmatched control over depth of field, letting photographers isolate subjects with creamy, dreamy bokeh while excelling in challenging low-light conditions.
Built to the exacting standards of Canon’s professional L-series, this lens combines a floating optical system and a single aspherical element for razor-sharp rendering throughout the entire focus range, while a Super Spectra coating ensures rich contrast and true-to-life color accuracy even under harsh or contrasty lighting. A ring-type USM drive delivers fast, whisper-quiet autofocus with seamless full-time manual override, making it equally at home in the studio and on location.
Key features
- Stunning f/1.2 Maximum Aperture: Provides extraordinary background separation and selective focus control, plus outstanding low-light capability without compromising image quality.
- One Aspherical Element: Effectively suppresses spherical aberrations and distortion, delivering exceptional sharpness and accurate subject rendering even wide open.
- Floating Optical System: Continuously adjusts element groups during focusing to maintain peak clarity and sharpness from the closest focusing distance to infinity.
- Super Spectra Coating: Applied to individual elements to dramatically reduce ghosting and flare, ensuring superior contrast and color neutrality in strong or mixed lighting.
- Ring-Type USM Autofocus: Powered by an optimized high-speed CPU, the ultrasonic motor delivers fast, precise, and near-silent AF with convenient full-time manual focus override.
- L-Series Weather Sealing & Rounded 8-Blade Diaphragm: Dust- and moisture-resistant construction protects in demanding environments, while the rounded diaphragm produces beautifully smooth, circular bokeh for a polished, professional look.
Specifications
| Mount | Canon EF |
|---|---|
| Format Compatibility | Full-Frame & APS-C (136mm equivalent on APS-C) |
| Focal Length | 85mm |
| Maximum Aperture | f/1.2 |
| Minimum Aperture | f/16 |
| Optical Design | One Aspherical Element, Floating Optical System |
| Coating | Super Spectra Coating |
| Autofocus System | Ring-Type Ultrasonic Motor (USM) with Full-Time Manual Focus Override |
| Diaphragm Blades | 8 (Rounded) |
| Weather Sealing | Dust & Moisture Sealed (L-Series) |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L II USM compatible with Canon APS-C crop-sensor cameras?
Yes, this lens uses the standard Canon EF mount and is fully compatible with both full-frame and APS-C Canon DSLRs. On an APS-C body, the crop factor gives it an equivalent focal length of approximately 136mm, making it an even longer short-telephoto portrait lens.
How does the f/1.2 aperture benefit portrait photography?
The exceptionally bright f/1.2 maximum aperture gives photographers extensive control over depth of field, allowing subjects to be sharply isolated against a beautifully blurred background. It also lets in significantly more light than slower lenses, enabling handheld shooting in low-light environments without resorting to high ISO settings.
Is the Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L II USM weather-sealed?
Yes. As a member of Canon's professional L-series, the lens features sealed construction to protect against dust and moisture ingress, making it suitable for use in challenging or inclement environmental conditions.
