So I have been shooting with my R6 for about two years now and honestly I love the body. The AF is insane for tracking, but lately Ive been doing way more portrait work for friends and some local events around Seattle, and my old EF glass just isnt cutting it anymore. Im getting tired of carrying around that clunky adapter all the time.
I was looking at the RF 85mm f/1.2 L because obviously that is the dream, but man, the price tag is absolutely brutal. I just cant justify spending three grand on a lens right now with my current budget for the summer. Then I thought about the RF 85mm f/2 Macro, but I keep reading mixed things about the AF speed being a bit sluggish compared to the L series. Is that actually noticeable for portraits? Like, if I have someone moving a little bit, is it gonna hunt too much?
My logic was that maybe I could get away with the 50mm f/1.2 RF instead? I know its a weird focal length for headshots but I like the environmental look sometimes. Except that is also crazy expensive. I just feel stuck. I need something sharp that wont make me regret not having that L glass, but I dont want to be broke by August.
Has anyone used the 85mm f/2 for actual professional-ish portrait sessions, or should I just hold out and save up for the 1.2 even if it takes me until next year? I just want that creamy bokeh look without dealing with the weird soft focus issues I sometimes get with my adapted glass. Does anyone have experience with the Sigma EF art lenses on the R6? Maybe I should just stick to what I know and deal with the adapter weight for now?
Adding my two cents, honestly just look at the Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM if you can find it used, otherwise the Canon RF 135mm f/1.8 L IS USM is absolute perfection.
Regarding what #2 said, honestly the Canon RF 135mm f/1.8 L IS USM is incredible but definitely pricey. If you need pro results without breaking the bank, try the Canon RF 85mm f/2 Macro IS STM. Sure it hunts a bit, but the sharpness is legit for the cost. If you hate the adapter, maybe search for a used Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM later, but for now, don't overthink it and just shoot.
Honestly, the Canon RF 85mm f/2 Macro IS STM is fine for static portraits, but dont push it with moving subjects. I tried it at a wedding last year and the hunt was real. If you want reliability, just stick with your Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art for now.
- Save your cash
- Dont rush into the RF 1.2
- Keep the adapter until you can actually afford the native L glass