85mm 1.8 is a very good alternative when you cannot afford the GM version. One advantage of the 85mm is being discrete - which does not work well with big white Zoom lenses. Thanks for the video, as always very clear and well delivered.
People always recommend a 50mm as the first prime lens you should buy, but I recommend a 35mm or 85mm as great choices for prime lenses, because the 50mm sits in a weird middle ground for me. I have a 35mm 1.4 and 85mm 1.4 and the 85mm is definitely my favourite lens. I'm always blown away by the phenomenal images it produces!
I kind of feel that. The 50 doesn't give any special "effect" like the compression of a longer focal length, or the exaggerated perspective of a wider lens. It's more "what you see is what you get". That said, I sold mine and quickly regretted it! New on one the way :)
I am a serious procrastinator, and can talk myself out of anything, have been "going to buy" a prime since the day I purchased my camera, always talking myself out as I could always find different info on different lengths. After watching this video I packed my stuff, left the house, and bought my 85mm.
I LOVE my 85mm 1.8! I've had the 85mm and a 35mm 1.4, and have been using my 85mm more and more for my portraits. I recently got a 20mm 2.8 and have been using it more than my 35mm. I love the more dramatic distorted shots i get from that as well, especially shooting from low angles.
When I first started shooting with my A6000 I purchased an 85mm f/1.8 and it very quickly became my favorite lens. I use it for street photography and portraits. By far my favorite lens.
OHHH yeah !!! I have been going out with my 85, and also 90 mm macro lenses since ages! I loved them! Not so invasive, and I can shoot landscapes, portraits, plants, etc!!!! Thank you Pat !!!! Best wishes from Uruguay :)
I just bought an 85 mm lens and you are correct, it really does make you think a lot about your shots and setting them up. One of my favorite things to do is to spend several hours out on the street with just one lens, and I can't wait to take this thing out.
I like using 85mm stopped down 3-4 stops, f4-5.6. Makes composition more difficult, but you can layer more elements since the background is not a full blur. Also, on some older design lenses the fall off at F4 or F5.6 can look more "dimentional", than the "cut out" look wide open, or of newer lenses.
Excellent talk, I just purchased an 85 and can’t wait to give it a try for street photography and travel, you made me feel more confident about my purchase. 👍🏽
My Sony 90mm f/2.8 is always finding it's way onto my camera. I bought it for macro, which is what it's made for, but it's just so damn sharp. Super sharp and compact, it's always in my bag. I use it for macro, street, landscape, anything really. It's only flaw is slow and noisy autofocus.
I remember Pat giving this advice in an earlier video that I found when I was just starting to get into photography. I bought the Sigma 85 Art lens and since it's been by far my favorite lens. I only really shoot street and I feel like it gives just the perfect amount of reach to dial in your compositions. And the 1.4 makes for some really really dramatic images in low light!
How has the 85mm focal length been working for your street work? I just commented below I just bought the Sony 85/1.8 for street. I live in the 35-50mm zone. Very traditional street photography focal lengths. I value a broad depth of field so I’ll be shooting at f5.6-8 or more stopped down. I may try taking street portraits. Mask On Nurse Marty (Ret)
You covered everything really well, and with great photos attached. 85 is like 24 in my head- it's so good for one thing that when you bring along for *everything* it delivers amazing results and unlocks a lot of creative thinking. I use an 85/1.8 around NYC and it's just indispensable. Nothing else gets the compression and the isolation yet still allows for some compositional leeway.
Bring along a 24mm AND an 85mm. The 24mm for the wide shot to give context, and the 85mm to home in on details that would get lost in the 24mm field of view.
@@careylymanjones Yes, I understand how each lens functions. My point was that both function in such a unique way that when you break their convention use- the ones you've outlined here- it brings in a creative aspect otherwise unavailable.
Hello Pat. I have an 85mm 1.4 that I looked high and low for about 30 yrs ago & In my will I've requested that this lense be buried with me! The glass on this is magnificent, & of ALL of my lenses, this one never leaves my sight! I've heard that there is a 85 1.2mm out there in the world somewhere, I really don't worry about that, but man 85mm 1.4 is a tone setter! Excellent piece my friend, love your style of teaching & keep marching forward young man! Mr. Hop......
When I got a 56mm f/1.4 (90mm equivalent), it immediately became my go-to, favorite lens, especially for street. Months later, this is still the case. It's a fabulous, rewarding focal length to work in.
@@perryvalton4245 I owned a 35mm f/1.4 and 90mm f/2 before. I sold both to get a 56mm cuz it sits in the middle and I needed to cull my kit. My comment on the 90mm f/2 is that it's my favorite Fujifilm lens ever.
@@thegrayyernaut The 90/2 is one of Fuji’s sharpest lenses. With the crop it is equal to ~135mm. Have you used it for street photography? Mask On Nurse Marty (Ret)
This was amazing. As soon as I brought the 85mm F1.8, I was in a landscape situation. It was perfect for it, and it's great for automotive too. I had to step back a lot but the sharpness and quality are so impressive.
Totally agree on the 85mm. Not too expensive if you opt for the f1.8 and it creates a certain look you just don’t get with a zoom. It’s definitely my favorite lens too.
Dude. I can't believe you made this video. I have been wanting to make this exact video for way too long!! I'm glad you did. 85mm is my favorite focal length and holy smokes is it useful for more than just portraits. As an astrophotographer/landscape photographer I have found it to be incredibly useful when I know I'm shooting to print in extra large formats.
I’m interested in the Law of Attraction. What you think about you attract to yourself. Because of your thinking and wanting this video, with no resistance, you have caused it to manifest. Mask On Nurse Marty (Ret)
I love this focal length and have an Olympus 45 mm f1.8 which is very close to the full frame 85. Fast enough too and so small it is easy to handle. I started before zooms so I tend to think primes.
When i'm traveling i was packing all the time my 35 1.4 and my 85 but i change a lot, now i'm more confortable with zoom, i m using for most of my shoot and street photography the new 60-600 from sigma and it's just insane!!!! love ur vids buddy
Thank you for breaking this down for the new people. Question: 33 years old. Starting to finally get into photography. Always had a love never did anything about it. I think I’ve landed on the Sony A7Riii for my body. Then the 85mm 1.4 for portraits. Yours is the second video I’ve watched on it. So that’s my decision. But I also love Landscapes. You mentioned a 7200. What was that? Can you recommend 1 lense for landscapes?? Thank you!
I started photography last year as an hobby and quickly became an addiction lol. I end up getting a Panasonic S5 ll and 3 prime lenses, 18mm f1.8, 35mm f1.8 and the 85mm f1.8. I believe that this 3 lenses are the best combination in my opinion. 18mm for the situation’s when I want to get more of the subject into the frame, 35 when I am shooting in close spaces and I need to have a wider feel of view and 85 for everyday and everything lol. Amazing video showcasing the versatility of a fast 85mm prime lens. Thank you for everything and keep up the amazing work
Just got my Rokinon 85 mm. can't wait to get it out and shoot. One reason I got was the aspect of it helping to narrow the landscape aspect, forcing me to look harder for the subject of the shot. Thank you sir for the video.
Outstanding video, thank you. I haven't seen anyone else talk about the 85mm on RUclips, and you nail everything about this lens - 100% to all of this. When my brother had his camera stolen on holiday, I gave him my old Nikon DSLR with all the lenses except my Nikkor AF 85mm f1.4, which I have a visceral attachment to and now sits on my FM3A, which I also can't bare to part with. Then, when I bought my Fuji X-T2, I got it with the XF 56mm f1.2 (which is the APS-C equivalent) and was the clear stand out among the other primes I got at the same time. Funny thing is, I don't take portraits, but as you clearly demonstrate, 85mm can do so much more and so very well. Excellent stuff, Pat. Please keep it coming.
The sigma apsc 56mm f1.4 made me fall in love with taking photos with my Canon ef-m M6 mk ii. Ultra light and compact. Superb optics. Forces you to compose carefully and as a result learn a lot.
Great video! Just one comment. Compression si not about the narrow field of view. Is about the distance from the camera to the subject. A telephoto lens requires you to be further away and that distance is what we see as compression in the final pictures. Cheers !
How do you use the 85 for street. I just purchased one and other than street portraits I’m at a loss how I’m going to use this lens. I guess I’ll have to take my photographs from a further distance. Mask On Nurse Marty (Ret)
I use a fuji 90 f/2... and its my favorite lens. I was so used to wide lenses and tried to replicate what the human eye sees... but after using the 90 (135 ff eqv.) Im obsessed.
Question: I also have a Fuji camera(XT-3) but don't have the budget for the 90mm or the 56mm. So, I've been wondering if the 50 f2 will come close being more like 75mm FF. Do you have any thoughts about that?
@@charliejg the 50mm f/2 is a great option, you are right it will give you 75mm equivalent. But honestly, if you dont need it NOW, keep saving up for the 56mm . And dont be afraid to buy used! I do all the time.
Until I got an 85(XF56mm f1.2), I wouldn't have thought one could be glued to my camera. But, that is exactly what happened when I started using it. Love it. Also, have been using a 135mm(XF90mm f2) a lot. Love it's sharpness. I got both for doing portraits, but have used them for everything.
Thank you Pat, I really enjoyed this. My 85 of choice is the Canon RF 85 F/1.2. It’s not smaller, lighter and more compact but man, it’s sharp. I’m not a portrait photographer (I bought the lens for another reason) so this was really helpful.
I’m a street photographer and most use 35-50mm full frame equivalent focal length. I also use Fuji gear so I too have a 1.5x crop. How do you use your 50mm lens for street photography? Mask On Nurse Marty (Ret)
I was under the impression that many photographers experience this focal length equivalent early in their journey. With Canon being the biggest camera brand, for users starting out with one of their crop sensor cameras the classic second lens purchase after the kit lens tends to be the inexpensive 50 1.8 which gives a focal length equivalent of 80mm with the 1.6x crop.
That's exactly what I had. Tho I had a sony aps-c instead. But my lenses were indeed a 35mm and then a 50mm f/1.8 I did use the 35mm (which is close to 50mm on full frame) more than anything else though and thought the 50mm was not necessary. But boi was I wrong. I switched to full frame recently and also brands: Canon RP with the RF lenses and with the 24-105 f/4-7 I very soon realized that I love the 85mm look. As of now, I just have that kit + a 50mm f/1.8, which is necessary for low-light. But I still haven't decided what to get next. the 24-105 f4 or 85 f/1.8 because don't wanna own a bunch of lenses like last time. I want the smalles amount and take only the ones I need on a shoot/trip. I mainly (want to) use my camera for Portraits and Travel.
I remember the 2nd lens I bought was a 60mm f/2.8. I used it some before setting my camera down for personal reasons. Now, about a decade later, I'm picking my camera back up and the 85mm is my next lens of choice. I just don't like zoom lenses anymore. If I use one, I only use it at the marked focal lengths instead of adjusting the lens to perfectly fit the subject. I prefer the mindset of using my feet to zoom and the creativity I have while doing so.
We all have a favourite go to lens depending on our popular genres. I found my 85mm sits in the bag in favour of the 105 f1.4. The bokeh is certainly buttery, but more importantly the focus seperation is lovely on wider shots. Similar to yourself it's more nimble and discrete whilst maintaining similar character to my 70-200 f2.8 at the 200mm end. I'll be interested to see how the Nikon 85 f1.2 performs when its released.
Canons USM 85 1.8 was my first lens upgrade and I love it. I use it for work and get sports photos with it. It gives such a unique look and the speed of the lens is helpful in low light. The 1.8 for video is great too. The descretness of it is an added bonus especially when I don't need to be super close to the subject.
The 85mm f1.8 from Tamron for DSLR (Nikon D780), one of my best lenses, mainly surf photography. "Compact and light", relatively but fits inside the waterproof case and I can swim with it... Cheap, great glass, it has stabilizer, super fast for focusing and the focal length is really nice for it. It also is on that DXO Mark list, overall score 46 and standing 22nd I think. But I could even do the same with the Nikon 85mm f1.8G.
Great video, Pat. Normally use a Sigma 1.4 35mm lens for night street photography, but tried my old Nikon 1.8 85mm lens last week. I think I'm doing something wrong, as the images were too soft. What settings are you using?
Small city street photography has been my struggle. I've been using a 50 1.8 on a 1.6 crop. So more close to an 85 & I gotta say, It's soo much less confronting than my wide lenses
learning the skill of getting through that confrontation is definitely worth it though IMO! but yeah, 85 is definitely way more comfortable in that respect
You should try TTArtisan 50mm F0.95 with a Techart adapter. 50mm is much more versatile and easier to use than 85mm. Autofocus even at 0.95 is surprisingly reliable and you can pretty much wipe out the background if desired. This is my go to combination when I go for a night street photography and love the photos this combo creates.
As charminbaer suggests, get a wider lens. Or you can get a larger apartment. LOL. You need to use the right tool for the job. Maybe the 85mm lens isn’t the right tool for this job. Surely you have other lenses. Have success with your food photography. Mask On Nurse Marty (Ret)
Thank you so much for this video! I would never think about an 85mm being a landscape/street lens, but seeing the examples you showed, it makes so much sense. I’ve been using a 30mm for a while now and will definitely look into this lens next.
I personally love my konica hexanon 57mm f1.4 on aps-c; coming to about 91mm. It's probably my favorite lens. So much character and for the type of photography I like to do, it works on every level. I highly recommend you try this lens.
I have a small issue. I have an APSC and had originally kit lens 18-55. Then got a 35 and 85mm. And then realized too late that I essentially have 50mm/135mm equivalent full frame lenses... @patkay Think I can still shoot with the 85mm APSC lens like the 85mm full frame you speak of?
85mm is the focal length I use the most, it has been awesome for street, cars and landscape. I think I use it way more than my 24-70mm. I tried 200-600 for street and that was a challenge but fun nonetheless.
Just learned this more recently: the concept of "equivalent focal length" between sensor sizes like APSC and FF for example, only refers to the field of view. The focal length of your lense doesn't change respective of your sensor size: an 85mm lens has a focal length of 85mm regardless of if you put it on an APSC sensor or a FF sensor. The equivalent bit is just the angle of view: 55 mm APSC is exactly the same angle of view as if you did a 1.6x (canon) crop on a FF 55mm lens. It is exactly the same angle of view you would get if you had an 85mm lens on a FF sensor. However: things like aperture diameter , bokeh quality, and anything else directly effected by focal length: those will stay the same regardless of sensor size. For my money: that means on APSC, an 85mm lens is still better for portraits than a 55mm
Very inspiring video, thank you! I just got an 85mm lens and although I'm still getting to know it better, I absolutely love it. I'm curious what your opinion is of 40mm pancake lenses. Any chance you might do a video on them?
I’m amazed I’m writing this. I do street photo And live between 35 & 50mm. When going to a demonstration or parade I will use a 28mm lens. I just purchased a Sony A7C because I couldn’t acquire a Fuji X100V/VI. I just bought an 85/1.8 lens. I don’t really know what is going on here. I’ve watched a couple of RUclips videos that argued that the 85mm lens can be used for street photography. I will see. I will try doing street portraits. I will try taking photographs from a further distance from my subjects. Yes, as you suggest, I don’t have to get close to my subjects. Quite the contrary, I can’t get close to my subjects due to the focal length. I will experiment and see how using this focal length works out. I selected the 85/1.8 for three reasons. It is small and lightweight. This lens is at the limits for this small body. Finally, it is cheaper than the f1.4. This experiment is a radical departure in focal length for me. I don’t know if I’ll enjoy using this focal length. As a result, I want to limit my exposure to losing money if I decide to sell it. There is a street carnival this weekend so I will have an opportunity to play with this lens. Mask On Nurse Marty (Ret)
I bought a Sigma 55m f1.8 for my APS- C not realising at the time about the x1.5 zoom factor. Although some shots were harder to get it forced me to learn how to use the length and easily produced some of my best shot's ive ever taken. Forces you to get creative :))
I shoot and film with the 85mm all the time and I always felt like people dismiss it too quickly :D I always wanted to explain to others why I love 85mm in detail but you summed it up perfectly Pat! Great video, peace!
This sounds great on paper but how do you manage switching lens? It gets tiring quickly after constantly changing different lens on a trip throughout the whole day
I started my journey using a vintage 50mm on apsc, which is a 85mm on full frame. When I use a other lens I find them to wide. Since I started with 85mm, it’s just a normal focal length to me
I was using 50mm. maybe I should try 85mm too ! Thanks !! If I may ask, if you can explain your choice of the 100-400mm lens choice for travel photography ? Thanks in advance !!
Back when I was a lot more active and could shoot whatever I wanted whenever I wanted... and used a Pentax LX, my absolute favourite lens for almost all forms of images was the 85A*. Still miss that lens! As I said, it was my go-to lens!!! Now, I have to use a A*55mm f:1.4 on my K-3 crop factor camera. Close.. but not exactly the same...
I hate the term compression it's just completely confusing and wrong... What changes is your perspective and the magnification. For a similar framing, you have to stand back further. The trusty 85mm at f/1.8 or f/1.4 has a huge aperture between a f/2.8 and a f/4 70-200 which for me makes it really useful in failing light - which is some of the best kind of light! It's a LANDSCAPE LENS!!! Really - give that a try!
85mm 1.8 is a very good alternative when you cannot afford the GM version. One advantage of the 85mm is being discrete - which does not work well with big white Zoom lenses. Thanks for the video, as always very clear and well delivered.
I picked that lens up for less than $350 and its amazing for the price
People always recommend a 50mm as the first prime lens you should buy, but I recommend a 35mm or 85mm as great choices for prime lenses, because the 50mm sits in a weird middle ground for me. I have a 35mm 1.4 and 85mm 1.4 and the 85mm is definitely my favourite lens. I'm always blown away by the phenomenal images it produces!
I kind of feel that. The 50 doesn't give any special "effect" like the compression of a longer focal length, or the exaggerated perspective of a wider lens. It's more "what you see is what you get". That said, I sold mine and quickly regretted it! New on one the way :)
How do these lenses do in video?
well said. For me personally I go even wider at 24mm as I can crop into 36 using super 35 mode with the 24mm 1.4
85MM F1.2 🤙🏽🤙🏽🤙🏽
@@olwanziro they’re good! Depends what kind of lens brand you getting
I am a serious procrastinator, and can talk myself out of anything, have been "going to buy" a prime since the day I purchased my camera, always talking myself out as I could always find different info on different lengths. After watching this video I packed my stuff, left the house, and bought my 85mm.
I LOVE my 85mm 1.8! I've had the 85mm and a 35mm 1.4, and have been using my 85mm more and more for my portraits. I recently got a 20mm 2.8 and have been using it more than my 35mm. I love the more dramatic distorted shots i get from that as well, especially shooting from low angles.
When I first started shooting with my A6000 I purchased an 85mm f/1.8 and it very quickly became my favorite lens. I use it for street photography and portraits. By far my favorite lens.
OHHH yeah !!! I have been going out with my 85, and also 90 mm macro lenses since ages! I loved them! Not so invasive, and I can shoot landscapes, portraits, plants, etc!!!! Thank you Pat !!!! Best wishes from Uruguay :)
I just bought an 85 mm lens and you are correct, it really does make you think a lot about your shots and setting them up. One of my favorite things to do is to spend several hours out on the street with just one lens, and I can't wait to take this thing out.
I like using 85mm stopped down 3-4 stops, f4-5.6. Makes composition more difficult, but you can layer more elements since the background is not a full blur.
Also, on some older design lenses the fall off at F4 or F5.6 can look more "dimentional", than the "cut out" look wide open, or of newer lenses.
Interesting
yes, even shooting at f8 for landscapes with Zeiss 85 f1.4 and Sigma 85mm f1.4, for portraits mainly at f1.4 if outdoors, for studio at f8
Excellent talk, I just purchased an 85 and can’t wait to give it a try for street photography and travel, you made me feel more confident about my purchase. 👍🏽
Bought the Sony 85 1.8 a few years ago for portrait. It's my favorite lense now I bring it everytime everywhere, for any kind of photography.
I own a canon M50. The 56mm 1.4 Sigma is one of my favorite lenses. Its small, just weights 288 gr or 9.88 oz.
Same on my M6ii. Favourite lens. Razor sharp open wide, fast and looks pretty neat on my camera.
My Sony 90mm f/2.8 is always finding it's way onto my camera. I bought it for macro, which is what it's made for, but it's just so damn sharp. Super sharp and compact, it's always in my bag. I use it for macro, street, landscape, anything really. It's only flaw is slow and noisy autofocus.
I remember Pat giving this advice in an earlier video that I found when I was just starting to get into photography. I bought the Sigma 85 Art lens and since it's been by far my favorite lens. I only really shoot street and I feel like it gives just the perfect amount of reach to dial in your compositions. And the 1.4 makes for some really really dramatic images in low light!
How has the 85mm focal length been working for your street work?
I just commented below I just bought the Sony 85/1.8 for street. I live in the 35-50mm zone. Very traditional street photography focal lengths. I value a broad depth of field so I’ll be shooting at f5.6-8 or more stopped down. I may try taking street portraits.
Mask On Nurse Marty (Ret)
You covered everything really well, and with great photos attached.
85 is like 24 in my head- it's so good for one thing that when you bring along for *everything* it delivers amazing results and unlocks a lot of creative thinking. I use an 85/1.8 around NYC and it's just indispensable. Nothing else gets the compression and the isolation yet still allows for some compositional leeway.
Bring along a 24mm AND an 85mm. The 24mm for the wide shot to give context, and the 85mm to home in on details that would get lost in the 24mm field of view.
@@careylymanjones Yes, I understand how each lens functions. My point was that both function in such a unique way that when you break their convention use- the ones you've outlined here- it brings in a creative aspect otherwise unavailable.
Hello Pat. I have an 85mm 1.4 that I looked high and low for about 30 yrs ago & In my will I've requested that this lense be buried with me! The glass on this is magnificent, & of ALL of my lenses, this one never leaves my sight! I've heard that there is a 85 1.2mm out there in the world somewhere, I really don't worry about that, but man 85mm 1.4 is a tone setter! Excellent piece my friend, love your style of teaching & keep marching forward young man! Mr. Hop......
When I got a 56mm f/1.4 (90mm equivalent), it immediately became my go-to, favorite lens, especially for street. Months later, this is still the case. It's a fabulous, rewarding focal length to work in.
Have you tried 90mm f2
@@perryvalton4245 I owned a 35mm f/1.4 and 90mm f/2 before. I sold both to get a 56mm cuz it sits in the middle and I needed to cull my kit.
My comment on the 90mm f/2 is that it's my favorite Fujifilm lens ever.
@@thegrayyernaut The 90/2 is one of Fuji’s sharpest lenses. With the crop it is equal to ~135mm. Have you used it for street photography?
Mask On Nurse Marty (Ret)
This was amazing. As soon as I brought the 85mm F1.8, I was in a landscape situation. It was perfect for it, and it's great for automotive too. I had to step back a lot but the sharpness and quality are so impressive.
Totally agree on the 85mm. Not too expensive if you opt for the f1.8 and it creates a certain look you just don’t get with a zoom. It’s definitely my favorite lens too.
I’ve use it personally and totally agreed how 85 changed the whole vibe of photography it’s by far the most fav focal length I’ve used so far🙌🏻
My Sony FE85mm f1.8 gets used the most for sure. That compression is just chef's kiss for me.
Dude. I can't believe you made this video. I have been wanting to make this exact video for way too long!! I'm glad you did. 85mm is my favorite focal length and holy smokes is it useful for more than just portraits. As an astrophotographer/landscape photographer I have found it to be incredibly useful when I know I'm shooting to print in extra large formats.
I’m interested in the Law of Attraction. What you think about you attract to yourself. Because of your thinking and wanting this video, with no resistance, you have caused it to manifest.
Mask On Nurse Marty (Ret)
I love this focal length and have an Olympus 45 mm f1.8 which is very close to the full frame 85. Fast enough too and so small it is easy to handle. I started before zooms so I tend to think primes.
Its been a while since last time I watched your vid, its so great to come back and hear your opinion on something that you love so much.
When i'm traveling i was packing all the time my 35 1.4 and my 85 but i change a lot, now i'm more confortable with zoom, i m using for most of my shoot and street photography the new 60-600 from sigma and it's just insane!!!! love ur vids buddy
Thank you for breaking this down for the new people. Question: 33 years old. Starting to finally get into photography. Always had a love never did anything about it. I think I’ve landed on the Sony A7Riii for my body. Then the 85mm 1.4 for portraits. Yours is the second video I’ve watched on it. So that’s my decision. But I also love Landscapes. You mentioned a 7200. What was that? Can you recommend 1 lense for landscapes?? Thank you!
I started with 24-105 and 85... Best decision ever... It rly helped me thinj real harder and the results are real sweet
wake up, Pat Kay dropped another video
😂 mvp mate!
I started photography last year as an hobby and quickly became an addiction lol.
I end up getting a Panasonic S5 ll and 3 prime lenses, 18mm f1.8, 35mm f1.8 and the 85mm f1.8.
I believe that this 3 lenses are the best combination in my opinion.
18mm for the situation’s when I want to get more of the subject into the frame, 35 when I am shooting in close spaces and I need to have a wider feel of view and 85 for everyday and everything lol.
Amazing video showcasing the versatility of a fast 85mm prime lens.
Thank you for everything and keep up the amazing work
Just got my Rokinon 85 mm. can't wait to get it out and shoot. One reason I got was the aspect of it helping to narrow the landscape aspect, forcing me to look harder for the subject of the shot. Thank you sir for the video.
Beautiful aesthetic and great eye for photography.
Outstanding video, thank you. I haven't seen anyone else talk about the 85mm on RUclips, and you nail everything about this lens - 100% to all of this. When my brother had his camera stolen on holiday, I gave him my old Nikon DSLR with all the lenses except my Nikkor AF 85mm f1.4, which I have a visceral attachment to and now sits on my FM3A, which I also can't bare to part with. Then, when I bought my Fuji X-T2, I got it with the XF 56mm f1.2 (which is the APS-C equivalent) and was the clear stand out among the other primes I got at the same time. Funny thing is, I don't take portraits, but as you clearly demonstrate, 85mm can do so much more and so very well. Excellent stuff, Pat. Please keep it coming.
The sigma apsc 56mm f1.4 made me fall in love with taking photos with my Canon ef-m M6 mk ii.
Ultra light and compact. Superb optics. Forces you to compose carefully and as a result learn a lot.
I use 25mm f2, and it’s my go to, I love the fov, love the lowlight performance, love the bokeh at times
I really love my Viltrox 85mm 1.8. It's cheap, light and gives great results. Great video, love your work! Thank you!
Great video!
Just one comment. Compression si not about the narrow field of view. Is about the distance from the camera to the subject. A telephoto lens requires you to be further away and that distance is what we see as compression in the final pictures.
Cheers !
Also one of my favourite lenses for street photography! The Helios 40-2 85mm 1.5 is an absolute beast too with its swirly bokeh. Great video as usual.
How do you use the 85 for street. I just purchased one and other than street portraits I’m at a loss how I’m going to use this lens. I guess I’ll have to take my photographs from a further distance.
Mask On Nurse Marty (Ret)
I use a fuji 90 f/2... and its my favorite lens. I was so used to wide lenses and tried to replicate what the human eye sees... but after using the 90 (135 ff eqv.) Im obsessed.
Question: I also have a Fuji camera(XT-3) but don't have the budget for the 90mm or the 56mm. So, I've been wondering if the 50 f2 will come close being more like 75mm FF. Do you have any thoughts about that?
@@charliejg the 50mm f/2 is a great option, you are right it will give you 75mm equivalent. But honestly, if you dont need it NOW, keep saving up for the 56mm . And dont be afraid to buy used! I do all the time.
@@bonedyone Thanks!
love the 85mm focal length, and would really like to hear you expand more on that 35mm street photography digression you had!
Professor Hines has a video on using the 85mm lens for street photography.
Mask On Nurse Marty (Ret)
Until I got an 85(XF56mm f1.2), I wouldn't have thought one could be glued to my camera. But, that is exactly what happened when I started using it. Love it. Also, have been using a 135mm(XF90mm f2) a lot. Love it's sharpness. I got both for doing portraits, but have used them for everything.
Thank you Pat, I really enjoyed this. My 85 of choice is the Canon RF 85 F/1.2. It’s not smaller, lighter and more compact but man, it’s sharp. I’m not a portrait photographer (I bought the lens for another reason) so this was really helpful.
I mostly shoot with a 50mm on an aps-c camera which gives similar results and I always felt most comfortable shooting street with that setup :)
I’m a street photographer and most use 35-50mm full frame equivalent focal length. I also use Fuji gear so I too have a 1.5x crop. How do you use your 50mm lens for street photography?
Mask On Nurse Marty (Ret)
I was under the impression that many photographers experience this focal length equivalent early in their journey. With Canon being the biggest camera brand, for users starting out with one of their crop sensor cameras the classic second lens purchase after the kit lens tends to be the inexpensive 50 1.8 which gives a focal length equivalent of 80mm with the 1.6x crop.
That's exactly what I had. Tho I had a sony aps-c instead. But my lenses were indeed a 35mm and then a 50mm f/1.8
I did use the 35mm (which is close to 50mm on full frame) more than anything else though and thought the 50mm was not necessary. But boi was I wrong. I switched to full frame recently and also brands: Canon RP with the RF lenses and with the 24-105 f/4-7 I very soon realized that I love the 85mm look. As of now, I just have that kit + a 50mm f/1.8, which is necessary for low-light.
But I still haven't decided what to get next. the 24-105 f4 or 85 f/1.8 because don't wanna own a bunch of lenses like last time. I want the smalles amount and take only the ones I need on a shoot/trip. I mainly (want to) use my camera for Portraits and Travel.
The Sony 85MM is phenomenal! I’ve used it in all these scenarios you mentioned and it just brilliant!
35 and 85 is the best combo.
The 35 1.4 and the 85 1.4 are magic lens.
Really enjoy 85mm as a walkabout lens on my Sony A7Rii. I like how it can pick out details with either the framing or shallow DoF. Fun to use.
Watching you speak about photography is so relaxing. Brilliant story teller you are 🙏
I remember the 2nd lens I bought was a 60mm f/2.8. I used it some before setting my camera down for personal reasons. Now, about a decade later, I'm picking my camera back up and the 85mm is my next lens of choice.
I just don't like zoom lenses anymore. If I use one, I only use it at the marked focal lengths instead of adjusting the lens to perfectly fit the subject. I prefer the mindset of using my feet to zoom and the creativity I have while doing so.
56mm f1.4 is one of favourite lens on crop sensor camera.
We all have a favourite go to lens depending on our popular genres. I found my 85mm sits in the bag in favour of the 105 f1.4. The bokeh is certainly buttery, but more importantly the focus seperation is lovely on wider shots. Similar to yourself it's more nimble and discrete whilst maintaining similar character to my 70-200 f2.8 at the 200mm end. I'll be interested to see how the Nikon 85 f1.2 performs when its released.
the 85mm is my favorite lens, the first one I bought for the reasons you said. its a beautiful lens
I already liked the "look" of the 85mm.
Now, this video puts in an objective way.
Thanks Pat. Love your videos
Canons USM 85 1.8 was my first lens upgrade and I love it. I use it for work and get sports photos with it. It gives such a unique look and the speed of the lens is helpful in low light. The 1.8 for video is great too. The descretness of it is an added bonus especially when I don't need to be super close to the subject.
The 85mm f1.8 from Tamron for DSLR (Nikon D780), one of my best lenses, mainly surf photography. "Compact and light", relatively but fits inside the waterproof case and I can swim with it... Cheap, great glass, it has stabilizer, super fast for focusing and the focal length is really nice for it. It also is on that DXO Mark list, overall score 46 and standing 22nd I think. But I could even do the same with the Nikon 85mm f1.8G.
What's a focal length that you'd like me to make a video on next?
24mm for sure!!!
35mm
24mm please
135mm f1.8 does magic for environmental pet portrait
Great video! 135mm next please! So many videos on youtube about 24, 35, 50mm already
Great video - just ordered my first 85mm (I had already ordered before watching this video but definitely reaffirms my decision)
Great video, Pat. Normally use a Sigma 1.4 35mm lens for night street photography, but tried my old Nikon 1.8 85mm lens last week. I think I'm doing something wrong, as the images were too soft. What settings are you using?
Small city street photography has been my struggle. I've been using a 50 1.8 on a 1.6 crop. So more close to an 85 & I gotta say, It's soo much less confronting than my wide lenses
learning the skill of getting through that confrontation is definitely worth it though IMO! but yeah, 85 is definitely way more comfortable in that respect
Every video is gold, Pat. Thank you so much for all of the helpful info.
My two lenses to go are the 85 and the 35mm. I photographed the London fashion and I'm glad I had the 35mm
You should try TTArtisan 50mm F0.95 with a Techart adapter. 50mm is much more versatile and easier to use than 85mm. Autofocus even at 0.95 is surprisingly reliable and you can pretty much wipe out the background if desired. This is my go to combination when I go for a night street photography and love the photos this combo creates.
Man your ending sentence always touches me ! Thank you for your work man.
Agree Pat. This is actually my first bought prime lens and I just adore it. It’s sharp!
This was my first lens and honestly I think it's more useful than my 24-70 (for my workflow and style). Only betttter might be my 135mm now
I love My 85, my only problem is that for food photography I have to stay 500 miles away from the food and my apartament is very small. Great video!
Well obviously don't use it for food photography! Use a 50mm or wider for food.
As charminbaer suggests, get a wider lens. Or you can get a larger apartment. LOL. You need to use the right tool for the job. Maybe the 85mm lens isn’t the right tool for this job. Surely you have other lenses. Have success with your food photography.
Mask On Nurse Marty (Ret)
Thank you so much for this video! I would never think about an 85mm being a landscape/street lens, but seeing the examples you showed, it makes so much sense. I’ve been using a 30mm for a while now and will definitely look into this lens next.
Would you recommend an 85mm for wedding photography? Currently I use a 50mm 1.4 and 24-70mm 2.8
I personally love my konica hexanon 57mm f1.4 on aps-c; coming to about 91mm. It's probably my favorite lens. So much character and for the type of photography I like to do, it works on every level. I highly recommend you try this lens.
thank you for the recommendation
I have a small issue. I have an APSC and had originally kit lens 18-55. Then got a 35 and 85mm. And then realized too late that I essentially have 50mm/135mm equivalent full frame lenses...
@patkay Think I can still shoot with the 85mm APSC lens like the 85mm full frame you speak of?
I always bite the bullet and bring the 85mm f/1.4 for all the reasons you mentioned. Love your videos.
I love my 85mm 1.8 for landscape photography! I’ve taken some of my favorite landscape shots with it.
85mm is the focal length I use the most, it has been awesome for street, cars and landscape. I think I use it way more than my 24-70mm. I tried 200-600 for street and that was a challenge but fun nonetheless.
can agree with you there!
85 was my second lens, was awesome for portraits 1.4 is awesome for low light too
I have the Sony 85MM GM lens and it focus hunts like crazy. Do you think I got a Bad copy?
The best of the pictures i have taken are from 85mm Sigma art F1.4 .. you just cannot go wrong with this one 🙌🏻
Just learned this more recently: the concept of "equivalent focal length" between sensor sizes like APSC and FF for example, only refers to the field of view. The focal length of your lense doesn't change respective of your sensor size: an 85mm lens has a focal length of 85mm regardless of if you put it on an APSC sensor or a FF sensor. The equivalent bit is just the angle of view: 55 mm APSC is exactly the same angle of view as if you did a 1.6x (canon) crop on a FF 55mm lens. It is exactly the same angle of view you would get if you had an 85mm lens on a FF sensor.
However: things like aperture diameter , bokeh quality, and anything else directly effected by focal length: those will stay the same regardless of sensor size. For my money: that means on APSC, an 85mm lens is still better for portraits than a 55mm
PERFECT. 85mm is the one and only
My 85 has been sitting in my camera bag for way too long. Time to start shooting! Inspiring video. Thanks!
I found this out recently. I appreciate your delivery.
Very inspiring video, thank you! I just got an 85mm lens and although I'm still getting to know it better, I absolutely love it. I'm curious what your opinion is of 40mm pancake lenses. Any chance you might do a video on them?
Voigtlander 90mm f/2.8 is another level of quality and compactness ))) i love it
I’m amazed I’m writing this.
I do street photo And live between 35 & 50mm. When going to a demonstration or parade I will use a 28mm lens. I just purchased a Sony A7C because I couldn’t acquire a Fuji X100V/VI. I just bought an 85/1.8 lens.
I don’t really know what is going on here. I’ve watched a couple of RUclips videos that argued that the 85mm lens can be used for street photography. I will see. I will try doing street portraits. I will try taking photographs from a further distance from my subjects. Yes, as you suggest, I don’t have to get close to my subjects. Quite the contrary, I can’t get close to my subjects due to the focal length. I will experiment and see how using this focal length works out.
I selected the 85/1.8 for three reasons. It is small and lightweight. This lens is at the limits for this small body. Finally, it is cheaper than the f1.4. This experiment is a radical departure in focal length for me. I don’t know if I’ll enjoy using this focal length. As a result, I want to limit my exposure to losing money if I decide to sell it. There is a street carnival this weekend so I will have an opportunity to play with this lens.
Mask On Nurse Marty (Ret)
This was very, very helpful. Thanks. I'm heading out to get some shots with my 85.
for me, the best lens ever for bokeh and compression, is the Sony 135 GM. 1.8 ......no other lens can render this magic !!!
I thought about getting an 85mm many times but I have a 105 Macro and it can double as a portrait lens and do the same job
Since I’m a contrarian, I chose the canon 85 mm f1.4 for my first lens haha I love it
I bought a Sigma 55m f1.8 for my APS- C not realising at the time about the x1.5 zoom factor. Although some shots were harder to get it forced me to learn how to use the length and easily produced some of my best shot's ive ever taken. Forces you to get creative :))
Very well explained! I do like longer focal lengths for landscape too. My go to is A7Riii/35GM & A7/FE85
I was just looking at the photographs.. such beautiful composition ❤
I shoot and film with the 85mm all the time and I always felt like people dismiss it too quickly :D I always wanted to explain to others why I love 85mm in detail but you summed it up perfectly Pat! Great video, peace!
my pleasure! now you can link people this video instead haha
This sounds great on paper but how do you manage switching lens? It gets tiring quickly after constantly changing different lens on a trip throughout the whole day
35mm next!
And thanks as always for the amazing content! You're still my favorite content creator, ever.
I love this lens ! Definitely one to have one in the kit ! Underrated!
I started my journey using a vintage 50mm on apsc, which is a 85mm on full frame. When I use a other lens I find them to wide. Since I started with 85mm, it’s just a normal focal length to me
85mm f1.4 is just pure gold. i love mine :)
I was using 50mm. maybe I should try 85mm too ! Thanks !!
If I may ask, if you can explain your choice of the 100-400mm lens choice for travel photography ? Thanks in advance !!
I got the canon RF 85mm f1.2 because it was the next cheapest lens I could afford. I absolutely love it!
Back when I was a lot more active and could shoot whatever I wanted whenever I wanted... and used a
Pentax LX, my absolute favourite lens for almost all forms of images was the 85A*. Still miss that lens! As I said, it was my go-to lens!!!
Now, I have to use a A*55mm f:1.4 on my K-3 crop factor camera. Close.. but not exactly the same...
I LOVE my Sigma 85mm 1.4 DG DN. Much improved over the adapted HSM version.
One of the best videos I've seen man! Greetings from Honduras
I hate the term compression it's just completely confusing and wrong... What changes is your perspective and the magnification. For a similar framing, you have to stand back further. The trusty 85mm at f/1.8 or f/1.4 has a huge aperture between a f/2.8 and a f/4 70-200 which for me makes it really useful in failing light - which is some of the best kind of light!
It's a LANDSCAPE LENS!!! Really - give that a try!