I recently upgraded to the Canon EOS R6 Mark II, and while the autofocus is incredible, I’m struggling to decide on the perfect portrait lens to pair with it. I mainly do outdoor lifestyle shoots and really want that creamy background blur. I’m torn between investing in the native RF 85mm f/1.2L for that top-tier quality, or if the more compact RF 85mm f/2 Macro would be sufficient for a hobbyist. I also still have my EF-EOS R adapter, so I'm open to older EF glass if the performance holds up. My budget is around $1,500, but I could stretch it for the right glass. Which lens do you think offers the best balance of sharpness and bokeh for this specific body?
In my experience, jumping straight to the f/1.2 might be overkill for a hobbyist budget. Honestly, the Canon RF 85mm f/2 Macro IS STM is surprisingly sharp, but if you're after that serious creamy bokeh, I'd look at the EF used market. I've used the Canon EF 85mm f/1.4L IS USM with the adapter on my R6 II and it's a dream—rock solid and better value than the RF L-series. Just watch out for older glass without stabilization... it can be tricky even with IBIS!
For your situation, I've found that you don't actually need to drop $3k for that pro look. Years ago, I obsessed over getting the fastest glass, but I realized the weight often kept it in my bag! Honestly, since you have the adapter, I'm very satisfied with the Canon EF 85mm f/1.4L IS USM. It hits that sweet spot of creamy bokeh and sharpness for way less than the RF version. If you want native, the Canon RF 85mm f/2 Macro IS STM is great for the price, though the bokeh isn't quite as 'magical.' Stick with the EF 1.4L—it works flawlessly on the R6 II. Anyway, hope this helps!
Bump - same question here
Jumping in here because I'm totally obsessed with specs! Before you drop 3k, you should check out the "Dustin Abbott" website or "The-Digital-Picture" for their side-by-side MTF charts. Honestly, the Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM is the bokeh king, but it's a brick! Since you have the adapter, I'd seriously look at the Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art for Canon EF. It’s legendary for sharpness and fits your budget perfectly! Ngl, the R6II autofocus makes even older glass feel brand new. Good luck!
This ^
Coming back to this... In my experience, everyone starts their portrait journey obsessed with 85mm, but over the years I've found that 135mm is actually where the real magic happens for outdoor lifestyle. I've tried many lenses on my R6 II and honestly, focal length compression often beats a wider aperture for that creamy background look you're after. It took me weeks of doing my own side-by-side tests with rentals because I couldnt decide either.
- Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM: Since you have the adapter, this is a total steal. I picked one up used and it still produces some of my favorite shots. It is lightweight and the autofocus is snappy on the mirrorless bodies.
- Canon RF 135mm f/1.8L IS USM: This is the dream lens. It is pricey and might stretch your budget, but the built-in IS combined with the R6 II IBIS is insane. It is noticeably sharper than the old EF version and the bokeh is just buttery.
- Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art for Canon EF: If you are dead set on an 85mm, this is what I would grab instead of the RF f/2. It is a bit of a workout to carry around all day tho, ngl. I actually had to DIY a better dual-strap system just to manage the weight of this beast during weddings. I eventually moved away from the heavy 85mm f/1.2 because it was just too much for long outdoor sessions. Dont sleep on the 135mm focal length... it really separates the subject from the world in a way that feels different. Let me know if you want me to dig up some sample comparisons between these!
