I had both 85 lenses until last year. The 1.8 for situations that needed AF speed. When my kids were young almost no AF system, camerabody nor lens, were fast enough for close focus shots of playing children. The 85/1.8 was sufficient. The 1.2L images though, from more static and slow speed motion subjects always had that magic the 1.8 never gives. The open shadows and colour rendition is unmatched, just like the creamy bokeh, except by the longer 135L. No other lens is like this 85L. I know photographers who switched system for this particular lens. Whether this lens is worth the money is up to you. For a pro this lens may seperate you from the competition and make money that is worth the investment after a few shots sold. For an amateur it depends on what you value in a picture. To me this picture of my daughter is priceless. I am glad I could shoot it with the best glass available. That is a way I often look at my pictures. Not art, not events, not shots that I shoot as a devoted amateur, but those priceless moments of personal life and family matters give me the best of EOSfun where I am willing to put the money. But then again this is a personal decision and for a great part a matter of budget. The 85/1.8 gives great shots too and is for many photographers more than good enough.
Nov 21, 2011 at 07:01 PM
Previous versions of eosfun's message #10105240 « 85 f/1.2 L II = Not worth it. »
