I have many lenses in my camera bag, but if I could only choose ONE lens to shoot with for the rest of my career … it would definitely be the 85mm 1.2! Here’s why I think every photographer should consider owning this beauty:
When I say sharp…. I mean SHARRRRP! Girl, this is no joke. I try to keep most of my images pretty light and airy which means I try to shoot with my aperture at 1.8 at least. Sometimes it can be tricky shooting at a low aperture with other lenses, but not this one! I love it.
2. The bokeh is unreal
The 85mm allows my to create the dreamiest bokeh EVER! This means that I can have my subject in focus and blur the background to create a soft and romantic look. I love it! I want my subject to POP out of an image and great bokeh really helps accomplish that!
3. It focuses quickly
This lens is a bit heavy, but it focuses quickly! I love using this lens when I photograph ballet performances. I usually shoot the Nutcracker every year and this is the lens I use! I am able to stop the dancer’s movement while still being sharp. It’s awesome!
4. Very Versatile
I use this lens for weddings, portraits, newborn sessions … you name it! It was such a great investment. The rich quality of each image it produces blows my mind and I can’t imagine a time when I didn’t shoot with it!
So, if you’re on the fence about what lens to buy next… try the 85mm!! It can be a bit pricey, so if it’s not in your budget currently … maybe try renting it for your next shoot or purchasing a slightly used one! (SHHH! That’s what I did!).
Here are some of my favorite images shot with an 85mm 1.2:
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