Im getting so frustrated trying to find a decent portrait lens for my R7. My budget is strictly under 500 bucks and I need something sharp for outdoor shoots next month. Torn between the RF 50mm f1.8 and the RF 85mm f2. Should I just save up for the 85 or is the 50 fine for now?
Jumping in here because I have used both on my crop body for ages. If you really care about portrait quality and not just having a cheap lens, just hold out for the Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro IS STM. Youre going to be way more satisfied with the compression, trust me.
- The 85mm focal length is just magic for portraits. It makes features look better and gives that dreamy background blur without trying too hard.
- Since the R7 is a crop sensor, the 85mm becomes roughly a 135mm equivalent. Thats perfect for keeping some distance from your subject so they dont feel awkward.
- The build quality on the Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro IS STM is definitely a step up from the Nifty Fifty. You get that extra bit of sharpness and the macro capability is actually super fun for detail shots during a session. Basically, the Canon RF 50mm F1.8 STM is fine if you are broke and need something tomorrow, but if you can swing the extra cash, get the 85. Ive done tons of outdoor shoots and the 85 has never let me down. It just works well. Dont stress too much, just grab the better glass and youll be set for years.
Honestly, the 50mm feels a bit tight on the R7 crop sensor, almost like an 80mm effective focal length. I used the Canon RF 50mm F1.8 STM for years before switching.
- The 50mm is super cheap and small
- 85mm gives you much better compression for faces
- Stabilization on the Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro IS STM is a lifesaver outdoors If you want pro results, wait for the 85mm. It is worth the extra cash.
> Torn between the RF 50mm f1.8 and the RF 85mm f2. Honestly, grab the Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro IS STM. It just works better for portraits on the R7. You'll be happy.
