So I finally upgraded to the R6 a couple months ago and I am absolutely loving the eye-tracking autofocus, its a game changer compared to my old DSLR. Now that I have a few weddings coming up in the spring here in Chicago, I really need to invest in a dedicated portrait lens. Im working with a budget of around 1000 to 1500 bucks, maybe a little more if its totally worth it.
Ive been scouring forums and watching way too many YouTube reviews. Everyone keeps pointing to the RF 85mm f/2, and I get that its affordable and compact, but then I read a bunch of comments saying the bokeh isnt as creamy as the older EF 85mm f/1.2 L versions when adapted. Im just so conflicted because I dont want to buy an adapter if I dont have to, but I also dont want to drop thousands on the RF 85 1.2 because that is just way out of my league. Is the f/2 version sharp enough for pro work or am I gonna regret not going with a prime that has a wider aperture? Im trying to get those super blurry backgrounds that clients love so much for engagement shoots. Does anyone have experience with the Sigma 85mm ART adapted to the R6, or should I just stick with native RF glass even if it means compromising on the aperture?
Honestly, skip the adapter drama if you can. I shot with the Canon RF 85mm f/2 Macro IS STM for a whole season of engagement shoots last year and honestly, the sharpness is stellar. The eye-tracking on your R6 makes that f/2 aperture super reliable for weddings.
- The stabilization is a huge perk if you're hand-holding during golden hour portraits.
- It is plenty sharp for pro work, just keep your subject distance in mind to get that separation.
- If you really need that buttery look, you could look into the Canon RF 135mm f/1.8 L IS USM if you can stretch the budget, but it's pricey. Basically, the 85mm f/2 works so well for my workflow that I never looked back. Youll be happy with the results for your Chicago clients.
Honestly, I had issues with the focus speed of adapted glass on the R6. If you want creamy bokeh, try these instead:
- Canon RF 85mm f/2 Macro IS STM
- Canon RF 135mm f/1.8 L IS USM Adapters are just a headache, sadly.
Look, if you want that dreamy, professional look for your clients, you really dont need to stress about blowing your entire savings on glass that costs more than a used car! I remember when I first started doing weddings back in the day, I was so obsessed with gear specs that I almost missed the actual shots. My first big gig was in the middle of a blizzard, and I swear I was more worried about my camera freezing than the couple!
- Pack extra batteries
- Always bring snacks
- Comfortable shoes are non-negotiable Anyway, I still think about that wedding because the bride insisted on wearing these ridiculous heels in three inches of snow. She kept slipping and honestly, we spent half the shoot just trying not to fall over. My gear survived, but my toes were numb for a week. Anyway lol, sorry kinda went off topic there.
