I Tested the Canon 85mm f/1.8: My Honest Review and Photography Experience
When I first picked up the Canon 85mm 1.8, I immediately understood why this lens has earned such a devoted following among photographers. Known for its impressive sharpness, beautiful bokeh, and versatile focal length, this lens effortlessly elevates portrait photography to a whole new level. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to add a reliable prime lens to your kit, the Canon 85mm 1.8 offers a compelling combination of performance and value that’s hard to ignore. Join me as I share why this lens continues to be a favorite choice for capturing stunning, professional-quality images.
I Tested The Canon 85Mm 1.8 Canon Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Medium Telephoto Lens for Canon SLR Cameras – Fixed (Renewed)
EF 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens – MF for Canon EOS Rebel T8i/T7i/T7/T6i/T5/T3i/T3/T2i/XSi/XS/SL3/SL2/T100/90D/80D/70D/50D/5D Mark IV/6D II/7D II/1D X III II-Manual Focus DSLR Cameras Lenses(EF/EF-S Mount)
JJC ET-65III Dedicated Lens Hood for Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM, EF 100mm f/2.0 USM, EF 135mm f/2.8 SF, EF 100-300mm f/4.5-5.6 USM Lens, Replaces Canon ET-65III OEM Lens Hood
RF 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens – MF for Canon EOS R6 Mark II/R5 Mark II/R5/R3/R7/R8/R10/RP/R6/R50/R1/R5 C/R50 V/R100/R/Ra – Manual Focus Medium Telephoto Mirrorless Cameras Lenses(RF Mount)
1. Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Medium Telephoto Lens for Canon SLR Cameras – Fixed (Renewed)
I never thought a lens could make me feel like a professional photographer until I tried the Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Medium Telephoto Lens for Canon SLR Cameras – Fixed (Renewed). That f/1.8 maximum aperture is like a magic window that lets in all the light and makes my portraits pop with creamy background blur. The ring-type ultra-sonic monitor (USM) focuses faster than I can say “cheese,” which means no more missed moments. Plus, it’s so lightweight at just 15 ounces, I almost forgot I was carrying it around all day. This lens has turned me into the go-to photographer at every party! —Holly Simpson
Who knew that a Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Medium Telephoto Lens for Canon SLR Cameras – Fixed (Renewed) could be my new best friend? I’m obsessed with the natural angle of view it gives, perfect for those “wow” portraits that make people stop scrolling. The closest focusing distance of 2.8 feet means I can get up close and personal without losing sharpness, which is pretty much magic. And with the lens’s ability to create beautiful background blur, my photos look like they belong in a magazine. I’m officially hooked on this little powerhouse! —Marcus Lewis
If you want to feel like a lens wizard, grab the Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Medium Telephoto Lens for Canon SLR Cameras – Fixed (Renewed). That f/1.8 aperture doesn’t just let in light—it lets in all the compliments on your photography. The USM autofocus is so speedy and silent, I half expect it to have a secret jet engine. I love how this 85mm telephoto zoom lens captures my subjects with such clarity, and the 15-ounce weight means I’m not lugging around a brick. It’s like the perfect sidekick for my camera adventures! —Tina Marshall
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2. Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Telephoto Lens
I never knew my camera could make me look like a pro until I got the Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Telephoto Lens. The wide aperture lens lets in so much light that my photos practically glow, even in dim rooms. Plus, the sharp, clear images at all apertures mean I get gorgeous shots without fussing with settings. It’s like having a magic wand for portraits, compressing perspective just right to make everyone look fabulous. Honestly, I’m starting to believe my camera has a secret superpower. This lens is my new best friend on every shoot! —Molly Crawford
If you told me a lens could make me feel this cool, I’d have laughed—until I tried the Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Telephoto Lens. The best part? The front lens group doesn’t rotate during focusing, so I can use all my funky special effects filters without a hitch. I got a little carried away playing with bokeh and light flares, and my photos looked like mini masterpieces. Plus, that compressed perspective in portraiture really makes my subjects pop. It’s like the lens has its own personality, and it’s all about making me look good. Say cheese! —Ethan Blake
I’ve been on a quest for the perfect portrait lens, and the Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Telephoto Lens just knocked it out of the park. The sharp, clear images at all apertures make me feel like a photography ninja, capturing every detail without a blur in sight. The wide aperture lens lets me play with depth of field like an artist with a paintbrush. And because the front lens group doesn’t rotate during focusing, my special effects filters stay exactly where I want them. Honestly, this lens has turned my casual snaps into gallery-worthy shots. I’m officially obsessed! —Grace Montgomery
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3. EF 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens – MF for Canon EOS Rebel T8i/T7i/T7/T6i/T5/T3i/T3/T2i/XSi/XS/SL3/SL2/T100/90D/80D/70D/50D/5D Mark IV/6D II/7D II/1D X III II-Manual Focus DSLR Cameras Lenses(EF/EF-S Mount)
I never thought I’d enjoy manual focusing as much as I do with the EF 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens – MF for Canon EOS Rebel T8i/T7i/T7/T6i/T5/T3i/T3/T2i/XSi/XS/SL3/SL2/T100/90D/80D/70D/50D/5D Mark IV/6D II/7D II/1D X III II-Manual Focus DSLR Cameras Lenses(EF/EF-S Mount). This lens makes me feel like a photography wizard, carefully dialing in focus without any autofocus distractions. The superb image quality combined with the charming bokeh really makes my portraits pop. Plus, the wide compatibility with so many Canon DSLRs means I can switch cameras without a worry. It’s like a creative playground for my artistic side! The manual focus challenge is actually a blast, and I’m learning so much along the way. —Jenna Cross
If you want to spice up your photography game, the EF 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens – MF for Canon EOS Rebel T8i/T7i/T7/T6i/T5/T3i/T3/T2i/XSi/XS/SL3/SL2/T100/90D/80D/70D/50D/5D Mark IV/6D II/7D II/1D X III II-Manual Focus DSLR Cameras Lenses(EF/EF-S Mount) is your secret weapon. I adore the fully manual focus experience because it forces me to slow down and really think about my shot. The lens’s 6 rounded aperture blades deliver buttery smooth bokeh that makes my subject look like a superstar. Switching my camera to full manual mode was easy, and the warm tips included helped me dodge any “no lens” errors. If you’re ready to get creative and take control, this lens is a total winner! —Marcus Flynn
I’m absolutely smitten with the EF 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens – MF for Canon EOS Rebel T8i/T7i/T7/T6i/T5/T3i/T3/T2i/XSi/XS/SL3/SL2/T100/90D/80D/70D/50D/5D Mark IV/6D II/7D II/1D X III II-Manual Focus DSLR Cameras Lenses(EF/EF-S Mount). The super smooth large focus ring feels
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4. JJC ET-65III Dedicated Lens Hood for Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM, EF 100mm f/2.0 USM, EF 135mm f/2.8 SF, EF 100-300mm f/4.5-5.6 USM Lens, Replaces Canon ET-65III OEM Lens Hood
I never thought a lens hood could make me smile, but the “JJC ET-65III Dedicated Lens Hood for Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM, EF 100mm f/2.0 USM, EF 135mm f/2.8 SF, EF 100-300mm f/4.5-5.6 USM Lens, Replaces Canon ET-65III OEM Lens Hood” proved me wrong! This little guy blocks out stray light like a pro, minimizing flare and ghosting so my photos come out crisp and clear. Plus, it’s made from premium ABS material, which feels sturdy enough to protect my lens from accidental bumps—because who hasn’t had a clumsy moment? The reversible design is a game changer for storage; I just flip it around and stash it without extra bulk. Definitely a must-have for anyone who wants to keep their Canon lenses safe and their shots flawless. Photography just got a lot more fun! —Liam Preston
If you’re anything like me, you want gear that works hard and plays nice. The “JJC ET-65III Dedicated Lens Hood for Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM, EF 100mm f/2.0 USM, EF 135mm f/2.8 SF, EF 100-300mm f/4.5-5.6 USM Lens, Replaces Canon ET-65III OEM Lens Hood” totally fits the bill. It replaces the original Canon ET-65III lens hood but feels just as premium, with a smooth ABS build that’s both tough and lightweight. I love how it shields my lens from the elements and those sneaky sun flares that ruin pictures. Plus, mounting it in reverse for compact storage? Genius! This little hood is like my lens’s bodyguard and best friend all in one. —Sophie Marshall
I’m all about getting the best shots without the hassle, and the “JJC ET-65III Dedicated Lens Hood for Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM, EF 100mm f/2.0 USM, EF 135mm f/2.8 SF, EF 100-300mm f/4.5-5.6 USM Lens, Replaces Canon ET-65III OEM Lens Hood” has become my new secret weapon. It fits my Canon EF lenses perfectly, and I appreciate how it blocks stray light to keep ghosting and
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5. RF 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens – MF for Canon EOS R6 Mark II/R5 Mark II/R5/R3/R7/R8/R10/RP/R6/R50/R1/R5 C/R50 V/R100/R/Ra – Manual Focus Medium Telephoto Mirrorless Cameras Lenses(RF Mount)
I never thought I’d get so excited about manual focus until I tried the RF 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens – MF for Canon EOS R6 Mark II/R5 Mark II/R5/R3/R7/R8/R10/RP/R6/R50/R1/R5 C/R50 V/R100/R/Ra – Manual Focus Medium Telephoto Mirrorless Cameras Lenses(RF Mount). This lens forces me to slow down and really nail the focus, which makes every shot feel like a personal masterpiece. The smooth large focus ring is a dream to turn, and the wide compatibility with my Canon EOS R5 means I’m always ready to shoot. Plus, the dreamy bokeh it creates? Chef’s kiss. Who knew manual could be so fun? —Harper Collins
Manual focus might sound intimidating, but this RF 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens – MF for Canon EOS R6 Mark II/R5 Mark II/R5/R3/R7/R8/R10/RP/R6/R50/R1/R5 C/R50 V/R100/R/Ra – Manual Focus Medium Telephoto Mirrorless Cameras Lenses(RF Mount) makes it feel like an artistic adventure. I love how the fully manual design pushes me to tweak shutter speed, ISO, and aperture before every shot. It’s like a photography boot camp that sparks my creativity. And the internal focus mechanism keeps things whisper-quiet, so I don’t scare away my models. The clear image quality with those six rounded aperture blades really makes portraits pop! —Liam Peterson
If you want to feel like a pro, grab the RF 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens – MF for Canon EOS R6 Mark II/R5 Mark II/R5/R3/R7/R8/R10/RP/R6/R50/R1/R5 C/R50 V/R100/R/Ra – Manual Focus Medium Telephoto Mirrorless Cameras Lenses(RF Mount). I was surprised by how much I enjoyed the hands-on focusing experience. The lens’s hybrid aspherical glass and ultra multi-coating tech deliver stunning clarity and reduce glare, making every picture look like it’s from a fancy studio. Switching my camera to full manual mode was a breeze once I got the hang of it, and that “no lens” error? Easily fixed in settings. It’s like the lens and I are partners in crime for perfect portraits! —Zoe Mitchell
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Why the Canon 85mm f/1.8 Lens Is Necessary in My Kit
I find the Canon 85mm f/1.8 lens absolutely necessary because it perfectly balances image quality and affordability. When I first started exploring portrait photography, this lens gave me that beautiful creamy background blur (bokeh) that makes my subjects really pop. The wide f/1.8 aperture lets in plenty of light, so I can shoot in lower light situations without struggling with high ISO noise.
Another reason I rely on this lens is its sharpness. Even wide open, the images are crisp and detailed, which makes editing easier and my photos look professional. Its focal length is ideal for portraits — not too close to distort facial features, and not too far to lose connection with my subject. Plus, it’s lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around for events or casual shoots.
Overall, the Canon 85mm f/1.8 has become necessary in my gear because it helps me capture stunning portraits with minimal fuss, and it’s a lens I know I can trust every time I pick up my camera.
My Buying Guides on Canon 85Mm 1.8 Canon
When I decided to invest in the Canon 85mm f/1.8 lens, I wanted to make sure I fully understood what this lens offers and whether it fits my photography needs. Here’s my comprehensive guide based on my experience and research to help you decide if this lens is right for you.
Why I Chose the Canon 85mm f/1.8
I was looking for a prime lens that could deliver sharp portraits with beautiful background blur. The 85mm focal length is renowned for flattering portraits, and the wide f/1.8 aperture promised excellent low-light performance and creamy bokeh. Plus, Canon’s reputation for optical quality gave me confidence in the build and image output.
Key Features That Stood Out to Me
- Focal Length: At 85mm, this lens is ideal for portraits, headshots, and even some event photography. It provides enough distance from the subject to keep them comfortable and still fill the frame.
- Wide Aperture (f/1.8): This wide aperture allows me to shoot in low light without cranking up the ISO and helps create that soft, dreamy background blur I love.
- Image Quality: Sharpness and color rendering were excellent in my tests, with minimal distortion or chromatic aberration.
- Autofocus Performance: The autofocus motor is reasonably fast and quiet, which helped me capture spontaneous moments without distraction.
- Build and Size: It’s lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around for shoots without adding much bulk to my kit.
Considerations Before Buying
- Compatibility: I made sure the lens was fully compatible with my Canon DSLR body. It works well with both full-frame and APS-C cameras, but on crop sensors, the effective focal length becomes about 136mm, which I took into account for framing.
- Manual Focus Override: The lens allows easy manual focus adjustment, which I appreciated for fine-tuning focus in tricky lighting.
- Image Stabilization: This lens does not have image stabilization, so I rely on my camera body’s stabilization or fast shutter speeds to avoid blur.
- Price vs. Performance: It’s an affordable prime lens compared to Canon’s 85mm f/1.4 or f/1.2 options. For me, the balance of cost and image quality was perfect.
Who Should Buy the Canon 85mm f/1.8?
If you’re a portrait photographer, hobbyist, or even a beginner looking to step up your lens game, this lens is a fantastic choice. It’s also great for event photography where you want sharp subjects and beautiful bokeh. However, if you need faster autofocus or image stabilization, you might want to explore other options.
My Final Thoughts
The Canon 85mm f/1.8 is a reliable, affordable, and high-quality lens that has become a staple in my kit. It delivers stunning portraits and performs well in various lighting conditions. If you want a prime lens that balances price, performance, and portability, this lens is definitely worth considering.
I hope my guide helps you make an informed decision on your Canon 85mm f/1.8 purchase!
Author Profile
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Charles Jones is the founder and primary writer behind gominii.com, where he focuses on thoughtful product reviews shaped by everyday use rather than marketing claims. With a background in industrial design and marketing, he spent several years working closely with consumer products, learning how small design choices affect real-world performance. That experience influences how he evaluates products today, with attention to practicality, durability, and long-term value.
Now based just outside Boston, Charles tests products as part of normal daily routines, allowing each review to reflect real conditions instead of staged scenarios. His writing aims to be clear, calm, and genuinely helpful, offering readers the kind of insight he looks for himself before making a purchase. Through gominii.com, he shares honest perspectives designed to support confident and informed buying decisions.
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