Is the RF 85mm f/1.2 actually worth the massive price tag compared to the RF 85mm f/2 for professional portrait work? Im booked for a big wedding in three weeks and need to decide fast. My budget is tight but I dont want to compromise quality if the f/1.2 is noticeably sharper... just dont know if the extra grand is really justified for my gear bag.
> Honestly, for pro wedding work, the Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM is in a different league. Totally agree with that. I used to lug around the Canon RF 85mm F1.2L USM for years, and the rendering is addictive. But look, at a wedding, speed is king. If your budget is tight, that extra grand could be better spent on a solid backup body or lighting. The Canon RF 85mm F2 Macro IS STM is actually a surprisingly decent option. Its sharp enough for 95% of clients and the stabilization is a lifesaver when the dance floor gets dark and you cant use a tripod. I used the f/2 for a full season and nobody ever complained about the bokeh. If you need that extra stop for artistic flair, sure, rent the glass for the weekend instead of buying.
Honestly, for pro wedding work, the Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM is in a different league. I have shot both, and the bokeh rendering on the L series is just smoother and more dreamlike than anything else. If you are charging premium rates, clients really do notice that subject separation.
- The 1.2 is a heavy beast and basically requires a tripod or steady hands for long events
- Focus speed on the 1.2 is lightning fast, which is crucial when you are trying to grab candids
- The Canon RF 85mm f/2 Macro IS STM is super lightweight and the macro feature is handy for ring shots, but it is definitely not as sharp wide open If you have the bookings to justify the investment, just go for the 1.2. It is a workhorse.
