I love that you use a lot of the same models, I really feel like we get to know them. I love the relationship you clearly have with them. I really liked the 135 which surprised me!!
I think 85mm is the best lens for studio and low light photography. And 135mm is the best potriat lens in daylight. I have both lenses from Sigma Art series. Both are really amazing lenses. Beside that 70-200 f/2.8 is the best versatile lens I think. Thanks Julie for your informative review.
I had a Praktica analoge camera in the early 80's. As young people I went hitchhiking with a friend. We were sleeping on Marcussqare that time. Back to photography, I accidently only took a 135mm prime lens with me. So I learned how to shoot with a prime lens. A great lesson to have only one lens with you, one get's a different perspective and more love for details. I encourage people to try different lenses to learn. There is no 'universal' lens for everything but if you only have one make the best of it
I love my 85mm 1.2 because it's both lenses in one on full frameits the same but on crop frame it becomes like a 135mm f1.9 if you own full frame and apsc cameras like I do the 85mm 1.2 it's 2 lenses in 1. Great video Julia!
I am so much into tight portraits that I cannot imagine anything better than a 135mm from Canon. I have used in once on vacation and it's absolutely stunning. The picture quality is superb. The bokeh is unlike anything else I've shot before. On top of that, you will get the lovely feel of a lens that originated back in the 90-ties. I will need to buy myself a copy of my own at some point.
Just a few days ago I was deciding between these exact two lenses. In the end I opted for the 135mm because I wanted something for taking candid shots of friends and family and felt the 85mm would require me to be a bit too close and possibly spoil the moment.
How much do you wish you had opted for the 85mm? The 135 looks great on these images and seems to be the better optics but just not very practical for most uses.
I own the 135 and yes, I literally had to stand on the other side of the street once for a full body shot, but one thing I think No one mentioned, if the person you are photographing is a little uncomfortable in front of a camera, it can feel better NOT having the photographer so close. It is one thing if you know each other, but if someone who hires you is a little camera why, that can be better actually.
That's my experience also, especially for Head and shoulders shots...head and shoulders shot with an 85 is too in their comfort zone if they aren't used to modeling.
Hi Courtney, Can you kindly give me a feedback about the lens? i own the 85mm 1.8 and i was wondering if i will get any evident benefit buying the 135 f2. Thank you, Christian
To my eyes the 135 gives it a more epic glamorous look, and the 85 makes you look a bit tinier as you're not compressed as much. Hard to decide so maybe just get both lol.
Loving my 85 1.8. It's an amazing lens for an unbelievable price. Used it a few days ago to shoot an indoor fashion show with pretty low light. We used strobes to add some light to the models but the lens managed to maintain focus tracking (AI Servo) as the models approached even in such low light.
When both lenses are used to create the same amount of "bokeh" (same shallow depth of field) the 135mm still offers more compression due to its longer focal length. This appears to bring the background closer and is quite nice. It also makes the face appear more natural in terms of relative features. If you have the distance to work, the 135mm is clearly the better of the two. If you really prefer to be in your model's face, as Julia does, the 85mm it is!
@@davepastern Uh...yeah Assuming there will be things in your room you'll be no more than what, 8ft from your model? I think you might find even 85mm is too long for a full body portrait.
@@iancurrie8844 yeah, I was thinking that too. Only looking to do head/shoulder shots and perhaps a bit of the arms. Only an amateur, not looking to make money, just learn more about studio lighting and photography with a very basic setup that I'm thinking about getting (godox AD200pro with reflector/diffuser as main light; reflector dish; savage paper backdrop sheet. Maybe 2 lots of Godox SL100D units to try and help emulate hollywood style glamour shooting when used with a fresnel. The latter are really out of my budget though. I can't see of any cheaper ways to get the face/shoulder/backdrop highlighting for the Hollywood style of shot that is very typical (really need 4 lights plus a 5th massive reflector for frontal fill from what I can see). It's a pity that studio is so expensive to get into, even at the budget end of the market.
@@davepastern Honestly, for your use, I think a zoom would be better. In a studio setting, you're not trying to blow out the background or create strong separation from it as you might in, say, a wedding. In that case, a narrower aperture would be preferable to get more of the model's face in focus and allow you some zoom versatility. I'm not sure a prime is well suited for such a constrained area.
I own the 135mm and I use it 75% of the time. The look is just magical. I have never used the 85mm but was always interested how it compares. Great comparison. One thing that you didn't mention is price. The 135mm is one of the cheapest L lenses and a huge bang for the buck!
I just got the 135mm 1.8 G Master for my A7III and it is incredible! I just shot a whole entire wedding on it and the results are mind blowing. It's such a way different lens than the 85mm. for group shots it's so much better because you're gonna have to stop to 1.8 to get everyone sharp and in focus anyway so you might as well get the extra compression from the 135 if you have the room to back up.
They are remarkably close and thank you for showing them side by side. I have both focal lengths and have traditionally used 85 for indoor posed shots and 135 for outdoor candid shots. You’ve convinced me that I’m not sacrificing much by not taking the time to change lenses or cameras.
I'm a wider version of you then! I shoot with only 35mm and 85mm! I am looking at 135 videos to decide if I should get that GM 135mm f1.8 or not... I feel like using 35 and 135 leave too big of a gap - the images would look like they are from 2 different sessions :D I have no idea yet... I might buy it just because!
both of these lenses are magnificent in their own way, and I think you used them both well... right now my two favorite lenses are the canon 135mm f2 and the canon 85mm f1.4... and I used them interchangeably on many of my shoots.
Intelligent, relaxed, informative presentation, Julia. Exemplary human contribution to photography expertise for others. I noted (let me know if I'm wrong) that you seemed to applaud the 135 slightly more FOR ITS VISUAL QUALITIES, but then "chose" the 85 for the benefits offered to shooting logistics. My thought on that would be, for my walk through that dilemma, to modify shoot mechanics to get the 135 into smoother play! It is a monster. You are a committed participant in photography. It's very inspiring to see the attention to your art's fundamentals.
When you’re not used to it, the 85 is a nightmare for the time it takes to focus. The 135 is much faster but a little bit tight. I usually use it in street photography to isolate subjects from the background.
For your kind of photography, which happens to be my favorite type too (portraits) my arsenal is a 35 a 50 and an 85mm. Anything else is extra weight in your bag. It took me 55 years to find this out; hope it doesn't take you that long or like me, every bone in your back will hurt by the time you reach 40. Oh, and if sometimes you want to simply have fun and be creative, throw in an old 24 and a manual fish-eye. -Good luck and enjoy your art.- Love your videos....
great video Julia. I prefer the 85mm lens. I think you can get a lot more detail in the photograph. instead of moving away from the subject. lovely to see Karina in this video. great work as always Julia.
This puts into words what I could never quite figure out. My feeling is that the 135mm produces a look that is so definitely associated with professional photography only, and the shorter you get the closer it looks to "ordinary" photography, and so dilemma is being stuck with my 135mm, and wondering if it means I am unable to take more "down to earth" looking shots.
im only just realizing the amount of skill you would need to use a telephoto lens to follow along with basketball and gymnastics. That's super cool. Like you gotta super precise, predict movement, read bodies turning, time to hit angles. Is it that the telephoto lenses are faster so you can shoot continuously even faster?
I dont think you can ever say one lens is always better than the other. They are situational. Seems like one factor of choice is, "Exactly how much background do you want in view", and by that I mean purely framing, not bokeh. The other to me, is entirely dependant on the model's face. I think a model with a very pointy or angular face might benefit from the 135. Whereas someone with a relatively flat face would benefit more from the 85.
Wow, the 135 is so creamy and makes the subject leap off the background! Great Video... But I agree, I still think I'd lean toward the 85 for convenience and versatility sake!
True but if for an example you have layers of colors a 135 will be much better bringing all together like street signs, background colors and subject clothing colors than an 85 but for portraits 85 is more than enough in my humble opinion
Julia should really be the model as she is most beautiful however I have always liked the 85mm lens as a portrait lens. I think when attempting to isolate subject the 85mm is the best all round lens too. The 85mm can take a great head shot, bust and head, half body and full body and also just general photography. I think it is important to really decide what lens is best for your several purposes so you don’t go broke buying gear or need a carry truck for your massive collection of “stuff”.
She probably uses a filter. Also I think artistically she likes the flares. Lastly I’d actually use a filter myself near/on beaches to prevent sand/water. Hopefully she will answer though.
I was about to buy a 135, and I already have an 85mm. I was in doubt whether the price of the lens would be worth it since I already have a very similar one in mm, your video helped me back out of this purchase. Thanks. I see it won't make as much of a difference as I was imagining it would, but I do more weddings, they wouldn't be portraits.
Hi Julia. Thanks for the comparison. Since I’m a hybrid shooter, I like the 135mm when shooting video cause distance is key (people act more natural when they don’t have a camera In their face for example crowd shot at a concert). But for photos, the 85mm. Proximity with a nice bokeh works well when shooting portraits, as you shared.
For me I do really close portraits and between 85 and 135 and 50 as well it is not about the bokeh not the sharpness not the background field view but the compression of the face. The longer the focal length the further you go away from the subject and the ratio between the closest and farthest point of the face gets lower hence it will be compressed more. Making the eyes closer and the ear also closer. This is what I look for when it is about to choose focal length!
Thanks I have the Nikor 85 f1.8 and love it...i just ordered the Nikor 135mm f2 D lens which will arrive in four days. I am excited to compare them myself. I also have the 24mm f2D lens & Nikor 35mm f2.8D lens both are awesome lens too. i enjoy the oder very sharp Metal material D lenses.Thank You for your most excellent Video & sharing the images,, your commentary,
Wow!! I'm impressed with the 135mm, its sharpness is awesome. 85mm can be more convenient but depending of the job 135 would be always my favorite. At least on this test the sharpness of 135mm is much better and I'm not talking about the chromatic aberration yet. Good video. Kiss from Brazil
If I had to choose, would pick the 135mm because it's sharp wide open and really fast focusing. If I had the money, would buy the 85mm f/1.4 IS refurbished and the 135mm f/2 also for the price of 1 new 85mm f/1.2.
I have them both and love them both but one huge disadvantage of the 135 mm is that it has no stabilisation. I have a shaky hand so I need to take pics at 1/320th of a second or shorter, which might be a problem when it's darker
hey julia, great work! it seems like 135 mm has a bit of say 10% extra compression, and perhaps a 125mm lens would be perfect for portraits, what do you think?
Hi Julia, the 135mm is better for headshots. Note how the models face looks much better on the 135mm close up at the end of the video. The 85mm is good for mids and full lengths and for better communication since you're closer. Both you and the model are beautiful. I like your accent.
I'm surprised you got such good contrast without a hood or hand to cover the lens for flares. I like the colors on the 85. You can always make 135 colors look similar, but sometimes you never know what looks better unless suggested to you by another lens.
135mm great for distance or stolen shot far moment.. 85mm still great for close up portrait because is have something special background separation from subject its pop up the subject.. for me I pick 85mm for all around... perfect for portrait...
135mm f/2 lens produces even greater bokeh, thanks to the long focal length that compresses the background far more than the 85mm lens. So me 135mm 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼and also not crazy expensive 💰💰💰💰
The 85 lens is three meal a day wider than the 135 . The 85 tends to be sharper due closer user close up awareness.😊 I love the135 simply because the more natural look that distance gives.
I love watching these because I love the vibe between photographer and subject. I need to learn that, I'm rubbish shooting portraits. I have the 135mm and love it, but also want the 85mm, not the f1.2, but the new f1.4 stabilised version. Keep on keeping on Julia.
I think the 135 shines on really tight head shots (not even 1/4 but like neck headshot, that's where it gives a good sense of perspective for my eye) while I like the bokeh of 135 anything past a tight head shot looks too compressed for me, I feel like my eye isnt connecting with those perspectives (1/4, half, 3/4, full) in a realistic way. My favorite personally is 100mm f2 and 50mm 1.8, and if I want a super tight headshot I just crop the 100 to a 5×7 at 70% frame. 135 is nice but it's just too far away from model most times and for me doesnt look warm/engaged with subject unless really close. I'd recommend 85 but ideally 100 or 105 and 50
My 135 is the Pentax legacy 3.5 manuel focus lens I love the way it shoots pictutes and it is such a small lens it looks like a 50mm . I also have the 100mm that I like alot .
I love seeing both. I have the 85 and it’s great. It would be awesome to try the 135 mm someday. I’ll prob stick with my 85 for now as 135 is a lot more
really cool comparison... the 85 is surely very good and nice to work with... but the IMAGE coming from the 135 ... so sublime, almost surreal and ethereal... just so different and clean... i really cant wait to try out the sony version on my next shoot, i will rent a 135 and see for myself... i mean, i LOVE 85... but the 135 images are just so special!
I like both lenses but think it's more about using them in a studio where you might not be able to back up so you choose the lens that gives you the body or shoulder shot you're after. Sometimes it's about the bokeh and other times it's about the background compression. I have both in Nikon and like them very much but don't shoot them totally wide open, just a tad off wide open which seems to give me better results. Most of my lenses shoot their best at f4 to f5.6. I tend to shoot at f2 or f2.8 instead of wide open as my bokeh circles are rounder (they are oblong at f1.8). I guess you have to test your lenses to find this bokeh sweet f stop.
Tested the 135 it’s a good Lense for Outdoor shootings like fashion or portrait but for wedding maybe in the church. The problem is you need a lot of Space between your Model and your Lense. So I habe the 85mm and I’m in love with the bokeh and the effect to the image.
Yeah I agree, I normally use my 135 for weddings rather than portrait shoots! I also don't like how far away I have to be from my subject during a portrait photoshoot with that lens
At 7:13 is "135" clearly sharper, but at 9:05 looks like opposite. Too blurry background at 4:19 is not for everyone (for me, depends on the composition). Hard to tell, both lenses are non-IS and it was taken from the hand. The real compare would be possible from tripod only. On other side, in Photoshop will be applied Gaussian blur in frequency separation, so everybody can choose his favorite.
Awesome review! I feft in love with the EF 135mm f2L lens the first time I use it. I think only EF 200mm f2L IS has better image quality than this mighty 135mm. As you mentioned, CA is minimum/none on the 135mm, which makes a difference in image quality. 135mm is hard to use due to lack of IS. I lost many shots due to out of focus due to hand shake. I’m looking forward to trying the mighty 135mm with the new EOSR 5, which has IBIS!!! EF 85mm f1.2L II is a special lens. Not as sharp as 135mm, but this lens has so special smooth & dreamy characteristics, especially at wide open at 1.2, that the 135mm does not have. Plus, 85mm focal is much easier to use for indoor portrait, especially events & wedding. I heard that the RF 85mm 1.2L is even better than the EF one, and wish to see RF135mm f2L or even f1.8L someday
Thank you and yes I completely agree that while the 85mm 1.2 is not perfect there is something very special about that lens! I'm very excited to try the RF version one of these days :)
4:18 I like the bokeh in the 85mm better than the 135mm lens. To me the 85mm lens bokeh looks more crisp and defined in the blurred circles. 8:58 I think I prefer the 135mm for the portrait shot, as more of the models portrait is in the photo clearly.
I using a Sony 135mm GM, excellent AF, IQ and stunning Bokeh but everytime I wish i cud go closer to the model haha. 85 wud be perfect for both indoors and outdoors actually. 135 is a good alternative for a 70-200 F2.8 if ure shooting sports. It will give your sports photos extra edge.
Same here! I have an 85 f/1.8, so I'm considering an 85 f/1.4, a 105 f/1.4 and the 135 f/1.8. I want to be able to get more separation and compression, but still retain sharpness. The Sigma 105 and 135 are insanely sharp, even wide open.
@@jneiberger from using both 135 and 105 now, the 135 allows you to get much closer and seems to have better detail(barely) but the 105 still manages to be my go to for most shoots these days
@@tristanwilhelm9600 That's kind of what I've been hearing. I know a pro who has the 105 and he also had the 135. He said because of the longer focal length, he hardly ever used the 135 except for outdoor senior portraits and stuff like that. I absolutely love the shots I've seen online from the Sigma 135, but I worry that I also wouldn't use it as often as I might use the 105 1.4, and the 105 would still give me better clarity and compression than what I get with my current 85 1.8. I think I'm leaning toward that 105.
... for outside portraiture, the 135 wins Hands Down ... and it was bit sharper than the 85 ...but in a studio where you can only back up so far, the 85 is the Weapon of Choice ...
First comment for a change. Another awesome video Julia. I preferred the 85mm for the detail it gave to the models' skin and also preferred the Bokeh from it too
Hey Julia, I would love to see you replicate this type of shoot, but with the latest firmware on the new Eos -R, which was announced this morning... I always enjoy your very informative videos.. Thanks..
Focal length affects the depth of field. So if you want to compare bokeh, you could account for that, for example by calculating what f-stop you'd need to get the same depth of field. Apps like PhotoPills have tables where you could look it up if the math is not that appealing to you. In your video at 4:00 you probably stand at a distance of 6m... gives 33cm DOF with the 135mm at f2.8, with the 85mm you'd have to be at f1.1 to get the same result, commercially available is only f1.2 so that could be the most honest comparable case. Cheers
Richard Crowe as long as you are aware that on crop sensors, It’s still a 85mm but with a cropped image. So you won’t get the special look she is showing here. It’s just like taking a 85mm with a full frame and cropping the image in photoshop
I love your videos. Can you please tell me how are you nailing focus on 85mm at f1.2. I have been struggling to nail focus. Most of my shots are miss focused. I'll be glad if you can give me tips on how
I love that you use a lot of the same models, I really feel like we get to know them. I love the relationship you clearly have with them. I really liked the 135 which surprised me!!
135 feels magical
Loved the fact that this was an in the field test in different scenarios and appreciated the side-by-side comparisons!
I think 85mm is the best lens for studio and low light photography. And 135mm is the best potriat lens in daylight. I have both lenses from Sigma Art series. Both are really amazing lenses. Beside that 70-200 f/2.8 is the best versatile lens I think. Thanks Julie for your informative review.
I had a Praktica analoge camera in the early 80's. As young people I went hitchhiking with a friend. We were sleeping on Marcussqare that time. Back to photography, I accidently only took a 135mm prime lens with me. So I learned how to shoot with a prime lens. A great lesson to have only one lens with you, one get's a different perspective and more love for details. I encourage people to try different lenses to learn. There is no 'universal' lens for everything but if you only have one make the best of it
I love my 85mm 1.2 because it's both lenses in one on full frameits the same but on crop frame it becomes like a 135mm f1.9 if you own full frame and apsc cameras like I do the 85mm 1.2 it's 2 lenses in 1. Great video Julia!
Nice infomation, thank you so much
I am so much into tight portraits that I cannot imagine anything better than a 135mm from Canon.
I have used in once on vacation and it's absolutely stunning. The picture quality is superb. The bokeh is unlike anything else I've shot before. On top of that, you will get the lovely feel of a lens that originated back in the 90-ties. I will need to buy myself a copy of my own at some point.
Just a few days ago I was deciding between these exact two lenses. In the end I opted for the 135mm because I wanted something for taking candid shots of friends and family and felt the 85mm would require me to be a bit too close and possibly spoil the moment.
How much do you wish you had opted for the 85mm? The 135 looks great on these images and seems to be the better optics but just not very practical for most uses.
I own the 135 and yes, I literally had to stand on the other side of the street once for a full body shot, but one thing I think No one mentioned, if the person you are photographing is a little uncomfortable in front of a camera, it can feel better NOT having the photographer so close. It is one thing if you know each other, but if someone who hires you is a little camera why, that can be better actually.
That's my experience also, especially for Head and shoulders shots...head and shoulders shot with an 85 is too in their comfort zone if they aren't used to modeling.
I shoot long for portraits from 85mm to 200mm I don't like being close to people. But I do like 35mm portraits people do they have a fun look to them.
Whay I really liked in this video are those straps. I need those in my life
You have some of the best and most thorough reviews on RUclips. Awesome job, keep it up!!
I’ve been using Sigma art 85 f1.4 for a while now and I just bought the 135 f2. Sooo excited
Hi Courtney, Can you kindly give me a feedback about the lens? i own the 85mm 1.8 and i was wondering if i will get any evident benefit buying the 135 f2. Thank you, Christian
To my eyes the 135 gives it a more epic glamorous look, and the 85 makes you look a bit tinier as you're not compressed as much. Hard to decide so maybe just get both lol.
Loving my 85 1.8. It's an amazing lens for an unbelievable price. Used it a few days ago to shoot an indoor fashion show with pretty low light. We used strobes to add some light to the models but the lens managed to maintain focus tracking (AI Servo) as the models approached even in such low light.
85 1.8 is amazing. I bought it for 180€ xD
Once again, I find my eBay cart filled with lenses when I should be asleep smh
bruhhh lmaoo
I feel you
Yep , been there
6 AM here rn. Been looking for what lenses to buy next all night... This comment could not be more relatable.
The 85 for me by a country mile. Thanks for the comparison- gr8 job!
When both lenses are used to create the same amount of "bokeh" (same shallow depth of field) the 135mm still offers more compression due to its longer focal length. This appears to bring the background closer and is quite nice. It also makes the face appear more natural in terms of relative features.
If you have the distance to work, the 135mm is clearly the better of the two.
If you really prefer to be in your model's face, as Julia does, the 85mm it is!
I'm looking at a small studio setup - no more than 8' by 10', and I suspect the 135mm will be too long a focal length in such confines...
@@davepastern Uh...yeah Assuming there will be things in your room you'll be no more than what, 8ft from your model? I think you might find even 85mm is too long for a full body portrait.
@@iancurrie8844 yeah, I was thinking that too. Only looking to do head/shoulder shots and perhaps a bit of the arms. Only an amateur, not looking to make money, just learn more about studio lighting and photography with a very basic setup that I'm thinking about getting (godox AD200pro with reflector/diffuser as main light; reflector dish; savage paper backdrop sheet. Maybe 2 lots of Godox SL100D units to try and help emulate hollywood style glamour shooting when used with a fresnel. The latter are really out of my budget though. I can't see of any cheaper ways to get the face/shoulder/backdrop highlighting for the Hollywood style of shot that is very typical (really need 4 lights plus a 5th massive reflector for frontal fill from what I can see). It's a pity that studio is so expensive to get into, even at the budget end of the market.
@@davepastern Honestly, for your use, I think a zoom would be better. In a studio setting, you're not trying to blow out the background or create strong separation from it as you might in, say, a wedding. In that case, a narrower aperture would be preferable to get more of the model's face in focus and allow you some zoom versatility. I'm not sure a prime is well suited for such a constrained area.
I own the 135mm and I use it 75% of the time. The look is just magical. I have never used the 85mm but was always interested how it compares. Great comparison. One thing that you didn't mention is price. The 135mm is one of the cheapest L lenses and a huge bang for the buck!
I just got the 135mm 1.8 G Master for my A7III and it is incredible! I just shot a whole entire wedding on it and the results are mind blowing. It's such a way different lens than the 85mm. for group shots it's so much better because you're gonna have to stop to 1.8 to get everyone sharp and in focus anyway so you might as well get the extra compression from the 135 if you have the room to back up.
They are remarkably close and thank you for showing them side by side. I have both focal lengths and have traditionally used 85 for indoor posed shots and 135 for outdoor candid shots. You’ve convinced me that I’m not sacrificing much by not taking the time to change lenses or cameras.
I use 50mm f1.2 and 135mm f2.0 for portraits and I switch between these two lenses, never felt that I'm missing out anything without 85mm
I'm a wider version of you then! I shoot with only 35mm and 85mm! I am looking at 135 videos to decide if I should get that GM 135mm f1.8 or not... I feel like using 35 and 135 leave too big of a gap - the images would look like they are from 2 different sessions :D I have no idea yet... I might buy it just because!
both of these lenses are magnificent in their own way, and I think you used them both well... right now my two favorite lenses are the canon 135mm f2 and the canon 85mm f1.4... and I used them interchangeably on many of my shoots.
Just want to say that the detail from the shots are insane sharp 🔥
Intelligent, relaxed, informative presentation, Julia. Exemplary human contribution to photography expertise for others.
I noted (let me know if I'm wrong) that you seemed to applaud the 135 slightly more FOR ITS VISUAL QUALITIES, but then "chose" the 85 for the benefits offered to shooting logistics. My thought on that would be, for my walk through that dilemma, to modify shoot mechanics to get the 135 into smoother play! It is a monster.
You are a committed participant in photography. It's very inspiring to see the attention to your art's fundamentals.
When you’re not used to it, the 85 is a nightmare for the time it takes to focus. The 135 is much faster but a little bit tight. I usually use it in street photography to isolate subjects from the background.
For your kind of photography, which happens to be my favorite type too (portraits) my arsenal is a 35 a 50 and an 85mm. Anything else is extra weight in your bag. It took me 55 years to find this out; hope it doesn't take you that long or like me, every bone in your back will hurt by the time you reach 40. Oh, and if sometimes you want to simply have fun and be creative, throw in an old 24 and a manual fish-eye. -Good luck and enjoy your art.- Love your videos....
This is so helpful thank you 🙏🏼
I just got the RF 85 L it's a beauty. Both focal lengths are great you can't go wrong with either.
great video Julia. I prefer the 85mm lens. I think you can get a lot more detail in the photograph. instead of moving away from the subject.
lovely to see Karina in this video. great work as always Julia.
85+70200 can't go wrong
The 135 makes the models look taller and more elegant in comparison. 85 makes them look good but in a more down to earth type of way.
This puts into words what I could never quite figure out. My feeling is that the 135mm produces a look that is so definitely associated with professional photography only, and the shorter you get the closer it looks to "ordinary" photography, and so dilemma is being stuck with my 135mm, and wondering if it means I am unable to take more "down to earth" looking shots.
4:25 The 135 is GREAT at capturing movement. It's one of my go to basketball and gymnastics lenses.
im only just realizing the amount of skill you would need to use a telephoto lens to follow along with basketball and gymnastics. That's super cool. Like you gotta super precise, predict movement, read bodies turning, time to hit angles. Is it that the telephoto lenses are faster so you can shoot continuously even faster?
I dont think you can ever say one lens is always better than the other. They are situational.
Seems like one factor of choice is, "Exactly how much background do you want in view", and by that I mean purely framing, not bokeh.
The other to me, is entirely dependant on the model's face.
I think a model with a very pointy or angular face might benefit from the 135. Whereas someone with a relatively flat face would benefit more from the 85.
Wow, the 135 is so creamy and makes the subject leap off the background! Great Video... But I agree, I still think I'd lean toward the 85 for convenience and versatility sake!
True but if for an example you have layers of colors a 135 will be much better bringing all together like street signs, background colors and subject clothing colors than an 85 but for portraits 85 is more than enough in my humble opinion
Julia should really be the model as she is most beautiful however I have always liked the 85mm lens as a portrait lens. I think when attempting to isolate subject the 85mm is the best all round lens too. The 85mm can take a great head shot, bust and head, half body and full body and also just general photography. I think it is important to really decide what lens is best for your several purposes so you don’t go broke buying gear or need a carry truck for your massive collection of “stuff”.
🎉thank you for showing full body portraits omg people rarely explain these differences
Why do you not like lens hood? In sunny condition like this, it should help reduce reflection and increase contrast.
She probably uses a filter. Also I think artistically she likes the flares. Lastly I’d actually use a filter myself near/on beaches to prevent sand/water.
Hopefully she will answer though.
Julia, you're really pretty. Thanks for the consistent uploads and instruction!
I was about to buy a 135, and I already have an 85mm. I was in doubt whether the price of the lens would be worth it since I already have a very similar one in mm, your video helped me back out of this purchase. Thanks.
I see it won't make as much of a difference as I was imagining it would, but I do more weddings, they wouldn't be portraits.
That camera harness is so cool, love the 135
I believe it’s the money maker! I’ve got the mando one and love it ! There amazing but pricey
Hi Julia. Thanks for the comparison. Since I’m a hybrid shooter, I like the 135mm when shooting video cause distance is key (people act more natural when they don’t have a camera In their face for example crowd shot at a concert). But for photos, the 85mm. Proximity with a nice bokeh works well when shooting portraits, as you shared.
85mm are the traditionsal lens for portraits. The best length for portraits in the average studio given limited room.
For me I do really close portraits and between 85 and 135 and 50 as well it is not about the bokeh not the sharpness not the background field view but the compression of the face. The longer the focal length the further you go away from the subject and the ratio between the closest and farthest point of the face gets lower hence it will be compressed more. Making the eyes closer and the ear also closer. This is what I look for when it is about to choose focal length!
Thanks I have the Nikor 85 f1.8 and love it...i just ordered the Nikor 135mm f2 D lens which will arrive in four days. I am excited to compare them myself. I also have the 24mm f2D lens & Nikor 35mm f2.8D lens both are awesome lens too. i enjoy the oder very sharp Metal material D lenses.Thank You for your most excellent Video & sharing the images,, your commentary,
Wow!! I'm impressed with the 135mm, its sharpness is awesome. 85mm can be more convenient but depending of the job 135 would be always my favorite. At least on this test the sharpness of 135mm is much better and I'm not talking about the chromatic aberration yet. Good video. Kiss from Brazil
If I had to choose, would pick the 135mm because it's sharp wide open and really fast focusing.
If I had the money, would buy the 85mm f/1.4 IS refurbished and the 135mm f/2 also for the price of 1 new 85mm f/1.2.
I have them both and love them both but one huge disadvantage of the 135 mm is that it has no stabilisation. I have a shaky hand so I need to take pics at 1/320th of a second or shorter, which might be a problem when it's darker
Get a Tripod
@@bahaatamer1245 I have one but it doesn't really help when the subject moves (singer at a concert, wedding couple)
i just couldn't find any of your Models comparable to your beauty... and ye, i found this Video very helpful.
Hard to tell... At the beginning i was for the 135mm but at the end don’t know which is the best. Very hard to give a winner.
135 for me. Most of the shoots I do are outdoors, so I have a lot of room to play with. For me, it was a matter of subject seperation and the "pop"
Both is excellent.
But, I can say that 85mm is more practical for everyday use.
hey julia, great work! it seems like 135 mm has a bit of say 10% extra compression, and perhaps a 125mm lens would be perfect for portraits, what do you think?
Hi Julia... I prefer 85mm as I can't get enough space everytime. And it gives me proper full length pictures. Love 85 focal
The 135mm is a BEAST! I need one lol
Yeah it's such a good focal length!
I would go for the 85 mm all the time, great video 👍
Hi Julia, the 135mm is better for headshots. Note how the models face looks much better on the 135mm close up at the end of the video. The 85mm is good for mids and full lengths and for better communication since you're closer. Both you and the model are beautiful. I like your accent.
I'm surprised you got such good contrast without a hood or hand to cover the lens for flares. I like the colors on the 85. You can always make 135 colors look similar, but sometimes you never know what looks better unless suggested to you by another lens.
I wouldn't use the 135 for fbs myself, I'd use a 50 or even 35 1.4 but that's just me. 135mm is the best portrait lens though.
I have both and i love them. My favorite lenses!
They are really close for their function, it’s hard to imagine for people who have two, you must have a preference right?
@@LCBear I have 2 bodies 🙄😂
135mm great for distance or stolen shot far moment.. 85mm still great for close up portrait because is have something special background separation from subject its pop up the subject.. for me I pick 85mm for all around... perfect for portrait...
135mm f/2 lens produces even greater bokeh, thanks to the long focal length that compresses the background far more than the 85mm lens. So me 135mm 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼and also not crazy expensive 💰💰💰💰
The 85 lens is three meal a day wider than the 135 . The 85 tends to be sharper due closer user close up awareness.😊 I love the135 simply because the more natural look that distance gives.
So both lenses look great! It just seems that they both get the job done and that you'll wish you had one or the other in difference circumstances.
I love watching these because I love the vibe between photographer and subject. I need to learn that, I'm rubbish shooting portraits. I have the 135mm and love it, but also want the 85mm, not the f1.2, but the new f1.4 stabilised version. Keep on keeping on Julia.
I think the 135 shines on really tight head shots (not even 1/4 but like neck headshot, that's where it gives a good sense of perspective for my eye) while I like the bokeh of 135 anything past a tight head shot looks too compressed for me, I feel like my eye isnt connecting with those perspectives (1/4, half, 3/4, full) in a realistic way. My favorite personally is 100mm f2 and 50mm 1.8, and if I want a super tight headshot I just crop the 100 to a 5×7 at 70% frame. 135 is nice but it's just too far away from model most times and for me doesnt look warm/engaged with subject unless really close. I'd recommend 85 but ideally 100 or 105 and 50
My 135 is the Pentax legacy 3.5 manuel focus lens I love the way it shoots pictutes and it is such a small lens it looks like a 50mm . I also have the 100mm that I like alot .
I love seeing both. I have the 85 and it’s great. It would be awesome to try the 135 mm someday. I’ll prob stick with my 85 for now as 135 is a lot more
really cool comparison... the 85 is surely very good and nice to work with... but the IMAGE coming from the 135 ... so sublime, almost surreal and ethereal... just so different and clean... i really cant wait to try out the sony version on my next shoot, i will rent a 135 and see for myself... i mean, i LOVE 85... but the 135 images are just so special!
Great videos Julia, very helpful and fun. You really give the viewers a front row seat. Thanks !!
Enjoyed how you made the comparison of both lens with a variety of shots. Thanks 🙏
Glad you enjoyed it!
I like both lenses but think it's more about using them in a studio where you might not be able to back up so you choose the lens that gives you the body or shoulder shot you're after. Sometimes it's about the bokeh and other times it's about the background compression. I have both in Nikon and like them very much but don't shoot them totally wide open, just a tad off wide open which seems to give me better results. Most of my lenses shoot their best at f4 to f5.6. I tend to shoot at f2 or f2.8 instead of wide open as my bokeh circles are rounder (they are oblong at f1.8). I guess you have to test your lenses to find this bokeh sweet f stop.
Wow ! The loved 85mm ! Julia great job 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
The model is beautiful,great shots !
This was very helpful & informative! Thank you so much. Love your videos!
Glad it was helpful!
I think longer focal lengths work better for street style photography where you have to be far away and a bit more discreet.
Tested the 135 it’s a good Lense for Outdoor shootings like fashion or portrait but for wedding maybe in the church. The problem is you need a lot of Space between your Model and your Lense. So I habe the 85mm and I’m in love with the bokeh and the effect to the image.
Yeah I agree, I normally use my 135 for weddings rather than portrait shoots! I also don't like how far away I have to be from my subject during a portrait photoshoot with that lens
4:17 just look at it objectively. The 85 looks like a snapshot compared to the 135, which looks like a perfectly compressed portrait.
Canon 135/2 L works excellent with Sony A7III as well. AF is very fast and accurate when connected through Sigma MC-11. Eye AF rules
Thanks, was wondering about that.
At 7:13 is "135" clearly sharper, but at 9:05 looks like opposite. Too blurry background at 4:19 is not for everyone (for me, depends on the composition). Hard to tell, both lenses are non-IS and it was taken from the hand. The real compare would be possible from tripod only. On other side, in Photoshop will be applied Gaussian blur in frequency separation, so everybody can choose his favorite.
Love the classic look of the 135mm
very detailed video and the Model is so professional
Beautiful lenses. And and all is beautiful..Thank you.
Awesome review!
I feft in love with the EF 135mm f2L lens the first time I use it. I think only EF 200mm f2L IS has better image quality than this mighty 135mm. As you mentioned, CA is minimum/none on the 135mm, which makes a difference in image quality. 135mm is hard to use due to lack of IS. I lost many shots due to out of focus due to hand shake. I’m looking forward to trying the mighty 135mm with the new EOSR 5, which has IBIS!!!
EF 85mm f1.2L II is a special lens. Not as sharp as 135mm, but this lens has so special smooth & dreamy characteristics, especially at wide open at 1.2, that the 135mm does not have. Plus, 85mm focal is much easier to use for indoor portrait, especially events & wedding.
I heard that the RF 85mm 1.2L is even better than the EF one, and wish to see RF135mm f2L or even f1.8L someday
Thank you and yes I completely agree that while the 85mm 1.2 is not perfect there is something very special about that lens! I'm very excited to try the RF version one of these days :)
4:18 I like the bokeh in the 85mm better than the 135mm lens. To me the 85mm lens bokeh looks more crisp and defined in the blurred circles. 8:58 I think I prefer the 135mm for the portrait shot, as more of the models portrait is in the photo clearly.
135mm for portraits on ff camera of course.
I using a Sony 135mm GM, excellent AF, IQ and stunning Bokeh but everytime I wish i cud go closer to the model haha. 85 wud be perfect for both indoors and outdoors actually. 135 is a good alternative for a 70-200 F2.8 if ure shooting sports. It will give your sports photos extra edge.
I’m definitely buying the Mark iii and these lenses!!!!
I'd be interested to see your take on the Sigma 105 1.4 🤔
Same here! I have an 85 f/1.8, so I'm considering an 85 f/1.4, a 105 f/1.4 and the 135 f/1.8. I want to be able to get more separation and compression, but still retain sharpness. The Sigma 105 and 135 are insanely sharp, even wide open.
@@jneiberger from using both 135 and 105 now, the 135 allows you to get much closer and seems to have better detail(barely) but the 105 still manages to be my go to for most shoots these days
@@tristanwilhelm9600 That's kind of what I've been hearing. I know a pro who has the 105 and he also had the 135. He said because of the longer focal length, he hardly ever used the 135 except for outdoor senior portraits and stuff like that. I absolutely love the shots I've seen online from the Sigma 135, but I worry that I also wouldn't use it as often as I might use the 105 1.4, and the 105 would still give me better clarity and compression than what I get with my current 85 1.8. I think I'm leaning toward that 105.
135 is one of the king of sharpness
... for outside portraiture, the 135 wins Hands Down ... and it was bit sharper than the 85 ...but in a studio where you can only back up so far, the 85 is the Weapon of Choice ...
Agree, it’s definitely easier to use the 135 when you have the space to move around!
First comment for a change. Another awesome video Julia. I preferred the 85mm for the detail it gave to the models' skin and also preferred the Bokeh from it too
Hey Julia, I would love to see you replicate this type of shoot, but with the latest firmware on the new Eos -R, which was announced this morning... I always enjoy your very informative videos.. Thanks..
The Canon 135mm f2 is a great lens, it gives beautiful images. Even full body shots are good to do.
Focal length affects the depth of field. So if you want to compare bokeh, you could account for that, for example by calculating what f-stop you'd need to get the same depth of field. Apps like PhotoPills have tables where you could look it up if the math is not that appealing to you. In your video at 4:00 you probably stand at a distance of 6m... gives 33cm DOF with the 135mm at f2.8, with the 85mm you'd have to be at f1.1 to get the same result, commercially available is only f1.2 so that could be the most honest comparable case. Cheers
One of my Christmas gift this year was the 135😁 I’m so excited 😆
Thanks! I went with the 135 on my Sony 👍🏼
Hi I love ur videos and content! One question, Do you use same filter on both the lense while youbshot these? Does the filter make difference?
So amazing! Thanks Julia
I love you Julia! 🤭 Great pictures!
I tried 50, 85, and 135... Ended up with... 105 macro. Great lens for closeups and tack-sharp as i never shoot portraits (headshots) wide open.
85 ftw🙌🏼
Excellent video Julia. Beautifully explained
Thank you!
🥰😍
I like the 85mm both on a full frame sensor and on a crop sensor (where it is a 112.5mm equivalent)...
Richard Crowe as long as you are aware that on crop sensors, It’s still a 85mm but with a cropped image. So you won’t get the special look she is showing here. It’s just like taking a 85mm with a full frame and cropping the image in photoshop
I love your videos. Can you please tell me how are you nailing focus on 85mm at f1.2. I have been struggling to nail focus. Most of my shots are miss focused. I'll be glad if you can give me tips on how