Katelyn I follow quite a few photographers on the internet and you are imo, hands down the best educator out there. You have the rare quality of teaching and getting your point across without making things complicated. You also have such a beautiful personality and your voice is easy to listen to. Thank you for sharing your knowledge with us all.
Your style with this lens makes your photos seem like a fairytale or like a dream come true moment and I honestly can’t wait until I get one of my own. TY
I just purchased this lens and when I tell you I'm in love is a understatement. I watched you use it so much and how you bragged on it i want to purchase something new and this was what i purchased dont know how i lived without it omg . My husband said is this the only lens you own now because everytime he sees me going back to it wow wow is all i can say when i seen the first portrait i used it on i cried my photography has jumped to the KJ level thank you for being a teacher and giving up your knowledge you are one in a million. I joined KJ all access and glad i did worth every penny
That lens is amazing! Love it so much!!! Though I personally have an obsession with the new RF 50mm 1.2, the EF 85mm 1.4 is also one of my favorites! Great review Katelyn! Thank you so much for investing so much into other photographers.
These are fantastic suggestions! Especially how to bring the 85 out when the clients are comfortable and you prep them by saying its your fancy, favorite lens. I love my 85 and my 135 for the reasons you said ~ the clients really pop off of the background, but I really appreciate thinking more about how to use them and help my clients feel more comfortable. Thanks, Katelyn! Appreciate your amazing resources.
I have the 85mm too and i noticed right away the difference in sharpness and the amazing bokeh it gives! 👏🏻 Its amazing! Awesome review im loving all your videos
I LOVE my 85! I never want to take it off my camera! I started my session last night with it but now after watching this going forward, I think I'm going to start my sessions with the 50 and then switch when we're all warmed up!
This review helped me to decide on the Canon 85mm 1.4! It's on my R6 and never coming off! I love, love and dare I say it again...Love this lens for my portrait work. It's amazing!
I have an 85 and I've barely used it because my 50 never comes off the camera! Your enthusiasm is contagious though - once the lockdown is finally over I'll have to try again!
I want to love my 85 SO bad. I literally got it because of watching your videos and listening to you and admiring your work. There are things I love about it but there are things I absolutely hate about it. You’re right- the compression is amazing and I absolutely love that! I also love the low light capabilities and almost always shoot at 1.2 and love its ability to focus even at 1.2! I love the bokeh too! But I HATE that I can’t move anywhere near my subjects! I would be right up in people’s faces if I could. I really hate standing so far away. And I feel like sometimes I stand too far away because the subject isn’t as sharp if I stand too far away so that’s frustrating. I so badly want to love this lens though!
Love this video. I actually shoot landscape/environmental professionally here in Utah with my Canon 85mm 1.2. It's definitely not the norm. But that's why I use it ! And love it!
I seriously LOVE my 85. I have the 1.8, but still...it's a great lens and creates a completely different look than ANY of my other lenses. I love the tips you shared though and going to apply some of them to the way I use my 85. Like being more intentional with the times I use it.
I agree. The 85 is absolutely not like the 50. My favorite images are the ones i have shot with this beautiful lens. I drove from Cincinnati to columbus a week before the pandemic shut down the country to purchase this for $1000 as an open box item from a camera store in Columbus. I wasn’t able to use until April but when I did I was in LOVE!
Thanks! I learned something from this video and will definitely try it when standing far back when I've found the right background and composition. My 85mm 1.2 is the least used lens and has been mostly a dead weight in my storage bag for the 3+ years of owning it and the 12 years of wanting to own one. I didn't know what to shoot other than standard portraits, which I realized I shoot the least amount after buying it.
I'm just starting out as a paid photographer and I bought the "cheap" version of the 85mm two days before I had my first shoot. I said, look this is an investment I am doing for the rest of my career. It might not be my only lens, it sure as heck won't be my last lens. But I will need to have this lens because I need that creamy background in my portraits. My wife looked at me, said: I have no idea what you're talking about, it's all the same to me, but if you say you need it, get it. And I was right, holy moly that lens is amazing. The client loved the pictures and I actually, before seeing this video, explained him: Look, I'm going to need to back up in a second, because this is a lens that can't zoom in, but you will LOVE the photos its going to give you for your business. Trust me on that. And I was right, they loved the shots. Are happy and will be coming back soon with wife and kid to do a photoshoot with the whole family. So I get your enthusiasm. And I second it all the way Katelyn. :)
I hated my first 85 (it was the 1.8) and after listening to how much you loved yours and seeing all the gorgeous images you took with it , I upgraded to the Sigma Art 1.4 and it's now my FAVOURITE lens - hands down. I absolutely love it and am so glad I invested in it.
I just rented this lens for an event. Looking forward to trying it out. Anyone who thinks it is like a 50 should study Jay Maisel NYC photography with his telephoto shots of NYC. Also shows why a telephoto helps in isolating for more impact and to see differently.
My very first lens was the 50 mm 1.8. The nifty 50 for only $125. I heard all the raves and how this is the lens to start learning photography. And sure, I started learning on it. But I never really felt any of my photos were magical. I then got a 15-30 mm lens 2.8 Tamron. A good lens but again, nothing ever made me go wow. I then got a Canon-refurbished 85 1.8 for only $250. And that was my first magical moment. It seemed like whatever photo I took had something amazing about it. And then my friends thought I took a huge step up in skill. So then everyone kept raving about the 70-200 2.8 II and so I decided to save up for it. And then I borrowed my friend's 70-200. And I had such a hard time with that lens. All the switches and whatnot. It wasn't a fast focusing lens. So I held off on buying it. I then eyed the 85 mm 1.2 and figured I would buy it. But then I borrowed that and that was such a slow focusing lens. And with no IS built in. I had such a hard time getting sharp images. People said that experts know how to get fantastic images from it, but at my skill level, it wasn't meant to be. Then I bought the 85 1.4 because it was much cheaper, had image stabilization, etc. And this lens is just plain GORGEOUS. It focuses so fast. It has IS so I don't need such a steady hand. The images are tack sharp. It's not the most practical lens covering all shooting scenarios, but if I have to have only 1 lens ever, it would be 85 mm. I had the Canon EOS R and loved that camera (yes, it does shoot slow but that wasn't such a huge deal to me). But I had $9K of camera gear stolen from my car, including that camera and that 85 mm 1.4. I still had a Canon 6D2 as a second cam and decided to buy the EF 85 mm f 1.4 again. But now I'm eyeing the Canon R5. During the time when I lost so much gear, I borrowed my friend's Sony A7R3 to do some photoshoots. That camera was touted as such an amazing camera. The resolution got me. It was just detailed. But I didn't enjoy the shooting experience because it had so many little problems here and there, especially the crazy buffering. I hadn't stepped into RF glass yet because I liked my EF glass. but I'm almost starting over with lenses and I did try out the RF lenses. they're so amazing and you can tell a difference between EF and RF glass. But now I'm wondering if i should step up to the RF 85 mm. long story short, that how much I love 85 mm. I've bought it so many times. I do want to get a quality 35 mm. I feel that's in the focal range that I need when I need a wider angle. My 15-30 just brings a bit too much distortion even though it can be mitigated in post.
You are awesome! Love your photography! I have this lens but my go to lens seems to be my 70-200 bc I am more comfortable with it. I need to play with my 85 exclusively to get more comfortable with it. Thanks for the great, informative video. I look forward to your RUclips postings!
Dear Katelyn, I have purchased this lens some months ago and have been enjoying it a lot. I must say from the comparison you made between the two pictures, the 85 mm is certainly my favourite! I wondered whether your settings like aperture were identical in both shots and whether you are willing to share them. I seem to struggle with aperture when shooting with the 85mm. Any tips on this would be great! By the way I only found your channel a few days ago but have been enjoying your enthousiastic way of showing what you use and why a lot!
Thanks for this video! I have the 1.8 and really like it but from your images, I realized I haven't been using it to it's fullest capabilities. I haven't been backing up far enough!! 🤯 Afraid of getting too far from clients, I'd switch to my 35mm instead. Something to work on! Thank you!!
I have debated between the 85 and a 35 because of the distance....I love my 70-200 because the images are amazing but boy do I have to be a field away! Thanks for this...love the Lighting and Location course!
Im Not sure why but purchased my 85 1.8..I have a different type of excitement with this lens .. I am not a pro , but just using it Makes me feel it will put me on the right path for my vision ..
I started shooting as a kid with a 50mm on a fully manual film Praktica in the 80's and, as a kid, I'd says that the 50mm suited me just fine. However, as an adult, I like the 85mm better. Not sure why, but the distance from the subject, I feel, is more appropriate in the adult world.
Hello Katelyn, I've taken photography classes in college, currently I've taken portraits and a couple of weddings, however, I still don't seem to find my own style. I've looked at you images and I love the pastel colors and the brightness of them. After watching this video I ordered a 85mm and Im loving it! Thank you for sharing all your knowledge. I'm thinking about starting with one of your classes but I can't decide which one to start with. What is your advise? Looking forward to your response.
Hey I’m only 13 I just started my photography business and I just shot my first wedding it was super exciting and couldn’t have made it without your videos helping me along the way! But I have a question. Can I buy any 85mm lens? Or does have to be this one? Ps. I’m a huge fan and I definitely look up to your work!!
Great vid Katelyn. Can you possibly talk sometime about making it through the wedding day in one piece. Keeping “on it” and giving your best all the way through. Pacing yourself. Snacks. Getting through a 10 hour day and getting the best out of every moment it tough. (maybe that’s just because I’m 50.😂)
This is SUCH a great question! You may LOVE watching our free trial wedding from KJ All Access... it's free for the first month and you can see how I handle the full day from behind the scenes! katelynjames.com/kj-all-access-trial-sign-up
I TOO LOVE this lens, most of my favorite photos were shot with the 85mm 1.8. they are almost silky smooth, I can see a HUGE difference in what I shoot with my 85mm vs 24/70 or my 50mm. I can see a big difference in your examples above, LOVE the 85 shot, not so much on the 50, I feel the customer got lost in the 50. Could not agree with you more.
Great video, Katelyn, and so helpful as always! How far do you need to be from your subjects using this lens? It looked like you were approximately 30-40 feet?
Any reason why you didn’t frame the 50mm exactly as the 85mm by closing the distance when shooting the 50mm? That would give better comparison of subject isolation right?
I didn't shoot those images solely for this video....they were from another setting. If I do another video in the future I will use your method. Thanks for watching!
Thank you for this video - it was very helpful! I particularly liked to see the pull backs and see how far you had to go to get the environmental portrait. The 85mm is also my favorite lens! I have a question about shooting indoors. I am just a mommy photographer documenting my family's life. Most of other moms I know use the 35mm for indoors, but I honestly like the results with the 50mm and even with the 85mm. Can you do a similar video on how to maximize the 50mm (and 85mm) indoors? I searched it everywhere but couldn't find it. The LLL course is on my wish list!! :)
I don't have this lens and you have convinced me to get it for sure! I do have a question for you... If you would have come in closer with the 50mm and framed it the exact way you did with the 85, would the background still look that different between the 2? Especially if they are both wide open? Is the bokah that much better with the 85mm?
Do you have a video on the 85mm 1.8? Mine I feel is nearly so super slow :/ I use it on the R6 and it just feels super slow and misses focus so much :( I'm getting ready to sell it and just save up for something else.
I specialize in senior portrait photography! I definitely lean more toward close up shots than ones with more "zero" space around them. If I want to stay closer to my subjects, would you still use your 85 (stay close) or go with the 50?
90% of my work is from my 85 1.4. It does not compare to any other lens and I will shoot entire sessions with it, only pulling out another lens if absolutely necessary. It’s beyond amazing!!!
Thank you for all you all do! My question may be off beat. Do you think its possible to find a way to use an 85 and a 35 throughout a wedding day while maintaining a consistent style? I want my work to lean heavier on the feeling of intimacy/journalism the 35 provides, but I also love the impact the 85 creates especially in portraits and ceremonies.
So I have the Canon 70-200 L series lenses. Everyone loved it, so many great reviews. But it is heavy. Regretting the purchase. I need to work more with lens. How do compare it to your favorite. Do you prefer your 85 more?
The 70-200 is more useful when you are in a situation where you can't move around too much. When you are doing portraits and you can move yourself and your client around, the 85 is amazing (as is the 50). When you are working an event like a wedding, the 70-200 has a bit more versatility despite not letting in as much light.
Awesome! I have a 50mm lens already but wasn’t sure which lens to get next, whether it be the 35mm or 85mm, but this helped me so much! Do you have a preference on the 85mm 1.2 vs the 1.4? I’ve heard mixed reviews on the 1.2 and wanted to know your thoughts on it.
1.4 is WAY better! I own both! I would also say, the 35mm is way more versatile. If you don't have any other wide lens option and you're a wedding photographer, you may need the 35 over the 85mm!
Quick question . . . just started using the 85mm - whenever I focus on one person anyone else in the pic is blurred (soft). So if I focus on one person and recompose anyone else in the pic is "soft." What am I doing wrong?
Here because I’m trying to like 85 lol 50 is my baby. The example shot is a little confusing. Would have liked to see the 50 with the same composition as the 85, but it’s a good point that the 85 will continually force you to be more intentional.
I have had the 85 1.2 for many years and it's my absolute favorite lens. My images are tack sharp (I do not have the problem you describe about soft images). It is also incomparable in low light, indoor situations, though a tad slow to focus. Is there a discernible difference in focus speed between the 1.4 and the 1.2? Thank you Katelyn.
hi katelyn ... I recently bought the eos R6 too and I think it's a little gem. now buying the 85 f2 is a bit too expensive for me. do you think the new RF 85 f2 is a good choice? have you already been able to have it in your hands? obviously there is a big difference in price between the two but f2 is an RF for the R6. what do you think about it? sorry for my English.
Have you ever used a 135, I use mine a lot and really like it as well I finally got the 50 and like it also, just not sure how the 85 would fall into the mix.
So beautiful! I have been contemplating getting the Canon 85mm 1.8 and have seen good reviews. Obviously, it is also much cheaper than the 1.4L. Would you say there is a significant difference in quality between them that's worth the price difference? Is it worth investing in the 1.4L instead?
the 135mm is great for ceremonies for me but I do think this is such a difference with the 85. that extra focal length makes it extra hard for portraits!
I would make sure that it is locking focus completely. I would also pay attention to how wide your aperture is. If this continues at say 2.5 there may be an issue with the lens.
I am starting out and have a crop (t7i), but I am collecting EF lens to be prepared for upgrade. I currently have 50mm and the kit lens. Would you still recommend this lens as next purchase for portrait?
I wonder how many 85s you've sold with this video lol.. I have the canon 85mm 1.8 and have been trying to use it more. But since switching to the R6 I've been wanting the 50 1.2... but... hmmm...
I have both. I think it depends on how long you can hold out and save for the 1.4. The 85 1.8 can produce some amazing images. But it's not super fast focusing (though it's faster than say the 85 mm 1.2). And it doesn't produce particularly sharp images (though they look beautiful). I didn't realize that the 1.8 images weren't sharp until I owned the 1.4. Now I look back at the older photos and they have a softer look to them (but still fantastic). The 1.4 is in a different league. You can shoot in darker situations. The bokeh is really really nice. It has image stabilization so you don't need to have as steady of a hand as the 1.8 (which doesn't have IS). and the images are super sharp. Even with the same camera, I saw detail in the 1.4 that wasn't there in the 1.8. And one more thing, the 1.8 had more things like chromatic aberration. I feel the 1.4 is one of the best lenses that Canon ever made and when you factor how crazy good the value is compared to their other lenses, it's a must buy. Some say having a bunch of lenses is better value than an expensive one. But I look back, and with my really amazing lenses, I just keep shooting with them. And the other lenses just sit there. So go with a lens that will keep you shooting. But on a budget, I think you would love the 1.8. I make it sound like the 1.8 is not so great but that's after using the 1.4. Before I got the 1.4, it was nothing but superlatives for the 1.8.
I have this lens and the 85mm 1.8 also. I was never happy with the clarity of the 1.8 but the 1.4 is amazing. I got it for it's IS which is very uncommon on such a fast lens. I use it on a 7D2 so it works out to be about 135mm, very good for subject separation and background control. I tend to get in close with it so I use it different to you but I think I love it just as much! My insta for anyone interested: instagram.com/tonygrantpix
Katelyn I follow quite a few photographers on the internet and you are imo, hands down the best educator out there. You have the rare quality of teaching and getting your point across without making things complicated. You also have such a beautiful personality and your voice is easy to listen to. Thank you for sharing your knowledge with us all.
Wow, thank you! You are so sweet! Glad you enjoyed it!
I actually can’t stand her accent! She’s nice and sweet but I can’t listen for a long time.
Your style with this lens makes your photos seem like a fairytale or like a dream come true moment and I honestly can’t wait until I get one of my own. TY
Thanks for watching!
That lens is my favorite too! Between the 35 mm 1.4 and the 85 mm 1.4 I could be happy all day long!
The best!
I just purchased this lens and when I tell you I'm in love is a understatement. I watched you use it so much and how you bragged on it i want to purchase something new and this was what i purchased dont know how i lived without it omg . My husband said is this the only lens you own now because everytime he sees me going back to it wow wow is all i can say when i seen the first portrait i used it on i cried my photography has jumped to the KJ level thank you for being a teacher and giving up your knowledge you are one in a million. I joined KJ all access and glad i did worth every penny
AMAZING!!! So glad you love it!! Welcome to KJ All Access!!
That lens is amazing! Love it so much!!! Though I personally have an obsession with the new RF 50mm 1.2, the EF 85mm 1.4 is also one of my favorites! Great review Katelyn! Thank you so much for investing so much into other photographers.
Thanks for sharing!
These are fantastic suggestions! Especially how to bring the 85 out when the clients are comfortable and you prep them by saying its your fancy, favorite lens. I love my 85 and my 135 for the reasons you said ~ the clients really pop off of the background, but I really appreciate thinking more about how to use them and help my clients feel more comfortable. Thanks, Katelyn! Appreciate your amazing resources.
you're so welcome!!!!
I have the 85mm too and i noticed right away the difference in sharpness and the amazing bokeh it gives! 👏🏻 Its amazing! Awesome review im loving all your videos
Totally agree! Glad you enjoyed it!
I LOVE my 85! I never want to take it off my camera! I started my session last night with it but now after watching this going forward, I think I'm going to start my sessions with the 50 and then switch when we're all warmed up!
This is a great idea! I even say "ok I think we are ready for my favorite lens! You guys are so good!" Gives them confidence!
@@KatelynJames so would always get farther away when using the 85mm?
This review helped me to decide on the Canon 85mm 1.4! It's on my R6 and never coming off! I love, love and dare I say it again...Love this lens for my portrait work. It's amazing!
Yes Lisa!!
I have an 85 and I've barely used it because my 50 never comes off the camera! Your enthusiasm is contagious though - once the lockdown is finally over I'll have to try again!
I think you will be pleasantly surprised!
I want to love my 85 SO bad. I literally got it because of watching your videos and listening to you and admiring your work. There are things I love about it but there are things I absolutely hate about it. You’re right- the compression is amazing and I absolutely love that! I also love the low light capabilities and almost always shoot at 1.2 and love its ability to focus even at 1.2! I love the bokeh too! But I HATE that I can’t move anywhere near my subjects! I would be right up in people’s faces if I could. I really hate standing so far away. And I feel like sometimes I stand too far away because the subject isn’t as sharp if I stand too far away so that’s frustrating. I so badly want to love this lens though!
It is hard being far away!
Thank you so much for the clarity and explanation! Diving into the 85mm world this weekend; thank you for being a great teacher!
Love this video. I actually shoot landscape/environmental professionally here in Utah with my Canon 85mm 1.2. It's definitely not the norm. But that's why I use it !
And love it!
It is the best!
I seriously LOVE my 85. I have the 1.8, but still...it's a great lens and creates a completely different look than ANY of my other lenses. I love the tips you shared though and going to apply some of them to the way I use my 85. Like being more intentional with the times I use it.
Great to hear!
I agree. The 85 is absolutely not like the 50. My favorite images are the ones i have shot with this beautiful lens. I drove from Cincinnati to columbus a week before the pandemic shut down the country to purchase this for $1000 as an open box item from a camera store in Columbus. I wasn’t able to use until April but when I did I was in LOVE!
Couldn't agree more!
Definitely love the 85
Thank you! I have the 1.8 and love it. Can’t wait to invest in the 1.4.
Thanks for watching!
Thanks! I learned something from this video and will definitely try it when standing far back when I've found the right background and composition. My 85mm 1.2 is the least used lens and has been mostly a dead weight in my storage bag for the 3+ years of owning it and the 12 years of wanting to own one. I didn't know what to shoot other than standard portraits, which I realized I shoot the least amount after buying it.
That is understandable! Thanks for watching!
Enjoyed this video. I purchased a Rokinon 85mm 1.4 Aspherical for Nikon. Pretty impressive, thanks again.
Very nice!
Awesome video...amazing pictures...I Skipped the nifty 50 and grabbed the great 85.. lol a must have, gorgeous bread n butter lens...lol
Good choice!
I agree, it's my fav too. I love it because your photos look cinematic. I'm happy with the 1.8. You're fab Katlyn ❤️
Thanks for watching!
You made me want to go out and get this lens! 😂Got a great deal tho!
I'm just starting out as a paid photographer and I bought the "cheap" version of the 85mm two days before I had my first shoot. I said, look this is an investment I am doing for the rest of my career. It might not be my only lens, it sure as heck won't be my last lens. But I will need to have this lens because I need that creamy background in my portraits.
My wife looked at me, said: I have no idea what you're talking about, it's all the same to me, but if you say you need it, get it. And I was right, holy moly that lens is amazing. The client loved the pictures and I actually, before seeing this video, explained him: Look, I'm going to need to back up in a second, because this is a lens that can't zoom in, but you will LOVE the photos its going to give you for your business. Trust me on that.
And I was right, they loved the shots. Are happy and will be coming back soon with wife and kid to do a photoshoot with the whole family. So I get your enthusiasm. And I second it all the way Katelyn. :)
So awesome Maarten! Thanks for sharing!
I hated my first 85 (it was the 1.8) and after listening to how much you loved yours and seeing all the gorgeous images you took with it , I upgraded to the Sigma Art 1.4 and it's now my FAVOURITE lens - hands down. I absolutely love it and am so glad I invested in it.
Thanks for sharing! Glad you enjoy it!
What was wrong with the 85mm 1.8?
I just rented this lens for an event. Looking forward to trying it out. Anyone who thinks it is like a 50 should study Jay Maisel NYC photography with his telephoto shots of NYC. Also shows why a telephoto helps in isolating for more impact and to see differently.
Thanks for watching!
absolutely understand why the 85mm is the lense for gorgeous moments
Totally Agree!
My very first lens was the 50 mm 1.8. The nifty 50 for only $125. I heard all the raves and how this is the lens to start learning photography. And sure, I started learning on it. But I never really felt any of my photos were magical. I then got a 15-30 mm lens 2.8 Tamron. A good lens but again, nothing ever made me go wow. I then got a Canon-refurbished 85 1.8 for only $250. And that was my first magical moment. It seemed like whatever photo I took had something amazing about it. And then my friends thought I took a huge step up in skill. So then everyone kept raving about the 70-200 2.8 II and so I decided to save up for it. And then I borrowed my friend's 70-200. And I had such a hard time with that lens. All the switches and whatnot. It wasn't a fast focusing lens. So I held off on buying it. I then eyed the 85 mm 1.2 and figured I would buy it. But then I borrowed that and that was such a slow focusing lens. And with no IS built in. I had such a hard time getting sharp images. People said that experts know how to get fantastic images from it, but at my skill level, it wasn't meant to be. Then I bought the 85 1.4 because it was much cheaper, had image stabilization, etc. And this lens is just plain GORGEOUS. It focuses so fast. It has IS so I don't need such a steady hand. The images are tack sharp. It's not the most practical lens covering all shooting scenarios, but if I have to have only 1 lens ever, it would be 85 mm.
I had the Canon EOS R and loved that camera (yes, it does shoot slow but that wasn't such a huge deal to me). But I had $9K of camera gear stolen from my car, including that camera and that 85 mm 1.4. I still had a Canon 6D2 as a second cam and decided to buy the EF 85 mm f 1.4 again. But now I'm eyeing the Canon R5. During the time when I lost so much gear, I borrowed my friend's Sony A7R3 to do some photoshoots. That camera was touted as such an amazing camera. The resolution got me. It was just detailed. But I didn't enjoy the shooting experience because it had so many little problems here and there, especially the crazy buffering. I hadn't stepped into RF glass yet because I liked my EF glass. but I'm almost starting over with lenses and I did try out the RF lenses. they're so amazing and you can tell a difference between EF and RF glass. But now I'm wondering if i should step up to the RF 85 mm. long story short, that how much I love 85 mm. I've bought it so many times.
I do want to get a quality 35 mm. I feel that's in the focal range that I need when I need a wider angle. My 15-30 just brings a bit too much distortion even though it can be mitigated in post.
Great points! I love the 85 too!!
You are awesome! Love your photography! I have this lens but my go to lens seems to be my 70-200 bc I am more comfortable with it. I need to play with my 85 exclusively to get more comfortable with it. Thanks for the great, informative video. I look forward to your RUclips postings!
That is awesome! Glad it was helpful!
That is the next on my list! The lens that I feel the same as you do about the 85 mm is my 100mm 2.8L.💕
Good choice!
I love my canon 85mm 1.4. Love it, love it.❤️
The best!
Dear Katelyn, I have purchased this lens some months ago and have been enjoying it a lot. I must say from the comparison you made between the two pictures, the 85 mm is certainly my favourite! I wondered whether your settings like aperture were identical in both shots and whether you are willing to share them. I seem to struggle with aperture when shooting with the 85mm. Any tips on this would be great! By the way I only found your channel a few days ago but have been enjoying your enthousiastic way of showing what you use and why a lot!
I'll have to go back and find the settings! Glad you are enjoying the channel.
I use my 85mm-1.8 and the photo's are great.I even use it on my Z50 w/ an adapter.
Thanks for watching!
Thanks for this video! I have the 1.8 and really like it but from your images, I realized I haven't been using it to it's fullest capabilities. I haven't been backing up far enough!! 🤯 Afraid of getting too far from clients, I'd switch to my 35mm instead. Something to work on! Thank you!!
Nkiruka Herche I worry about will it focus correctly if I am shooting from a distance as the back of the lcd wouldn’t show slightly oof shots.
@@sexysilversurfer definitely a good thing to consider! Only way to know is to try it out and practice.
Glad it was helpful! And it is totally fine to back up and get a shot with the 85 and then switch to the 35 and get a nice wide shot!
@@KatelynJames makes sense!! Thank you!
I have debated between the 85 and a 35 because of the distance....I love my 70-200 because the images are amazing but boy do I have to be a field away! Thanks for this...love the Lighting and Location course!
If you don't have ANY type of wider prime lens then I would get a 35mm over the 85mm!
@@KatelynJames If I have the 50mm 1.8 RF lens, would you recommend getting the 35mm or 85mm or like you mentioned in another video the 28-70mm f/2?
Im
Not sure why but purchased my 85 1.8..I have a different type of excitement with this lens .. I am not a pro , but just using it
Makes me feel it will put me on the right path for my vision ..
the solution i did for the backing up and client engagement i have my assistant carry a 2way radio. i pose and direct the couple through radio XD
Thanks for watching!!
I used to do wedding with hasselblad for 20 years + during film age... if I pick my system again now, I will go for M43...
Thanks for watching!
I started shooting as a kid with a 50mm on a fully manual film Praktica in the 80's and, as a kid, I'd says that the 50mm suited me just fine. However, as an adult, I like the 85mm better. Not sure why, but the distance from the subject, I feel, is more appropriate in the adult world.
haha true!
I'm guessing (judging from your style), that you don't use filters or polarizers at all? Thanks for sharing your knowledge with us!
Hello Katelyn, I've taken photography classes in college, currently I've taken portraits and a couple of weddings, however, I still don't seem to find my own style. I've looked at you images and I love the pastel colors and the brightness of them. After watching this video I ordered a 85mm and Im loving it! Thank you for sharing all your knowledge. I'm thinking about starting with one of your classes but I can't decide which one to start with. What is your advise? Looking forward to your response.
I recommend everyone start with Lighting and Locations!! glad you are loving the 85!! It is my favorite!!
Hey I’m only 13 I just started my photography business and I just shot my first wedding it was super exciting and couldn’t have made it without your videos helping me along the way! But I have a question. Can I buy any 85mm lens? Or does have to be this one? Ps. I’m a huge fan and I definitely look up to your work!!
You can get the 1.8. You can rent the 1.2 and the 1.8 and see which one you want to invest in! Hope that helps! Thanks for watching!
Great vid Katelyn.
Can you possibly talk sometime about making it through the wedding day in one piece. Keeping “on it” and giving your best all the way through. Pacing yourself. Snacks. Getting through a 10 hour day and getting the best out of every moment it tough. (maybe that’s just because I’m 50.😂)
This is SUCH a great question! You may LOVE watching our free trial wedding from KJ All Access... it's free for the first month and you can see how I handle the full day from behind the scenes! katelynjames.com/kj-all-access-trial-sign-up
@@KatelynJames Thank you X
I TOO LOVE this lens, most of my favorite photos were shot with the 85mm 1.8. they are almost silky smooth, I can see a HUGE difference in what I shoot with my 85mm vs 24/70 or my 50mm. I can see a big difference in your examples above, LOVE the 85 shot, not so much on the 50, I feel the customer got lost in the 50. Could not agree with you more.
Thanks for watching!
Great video, Katelyn, and so helpful as always! How far do you need to be from your subjects using this lens? It looked like you were approximately 30-40 feet?
It really depends! But yes there does need to be some distance for certain looks!
Any reason why you didn’t frame the 50mm exactly as the 85mm by closing the distance when shooting the 50mm? That would give better comparison of subject isolation right?
I didn't shoot those images solely for this video....they were from another setting. If I do another video in the future I will use your method. Thanks for watching!
Thank you for this video - it was very helpful! I particularly liked to see the pull backs and see how far you had to go to get the environmental portrait. The 85mm is also my favorite lens! I have a question about shooting indoors. I am just a mommy photographer documenting my family's life. Most of other moms I know use the 35mm for indoors, but I honestly like the results with the 50mm and even with the 85mm. Can you do a similar video on how to maximize the 50mm (and 85mm) indoors? I searched it everywhere but couldn't find it. The LLL course is on my wish list!! :)
Yes we will try to cover that in future videos!
I have always wanted to get an 85mm. The 135mm is my favorite portrait lens but I need to be pretty far back.
It is a great lens!
I don't have this lens and you have convinced me to get it for sure! I do have a question for you... If you would have come in closer with the 50mm and framed it the exact way you did with the 85, would the background still look that different between the 2? Especially if they are both wide open? Is the bokah that much better with the 85mm?
I think so! I love the 85!
Do you have a video on the 85mm 1.8? Mine I feel is nearly so super slow :/ I use it on the R6 and it just feels super slow and misses focus so much :( I'm getting ready to sell it and just save up for something else.
Thanks for watching!
I specialize in senior portrait photography! I definitely lean more toward close up shots than ones with more "zero" space around them. If I want to stay closer to my subjects, would you still use your 85 (stay close) or go with the 50?
Yes I love the 85!
Great recommendation! What would you say is your second favorite lens?
Probably my 50mm of 35mm!
90% of my work is from my 85 1.4. It does not compare to any other lens and I will shoot entire sessions with it, only pulling out another lens if absolutely necessary. It’s beyond amazing!!!
I totally agree!!!
Love it! Such a helpful review!
Glad it was helpful!
Thank you for all you all do! My question may be off beat. Do you think its possible to find a way to use an 85 and a 35 throughout a wedding day while maintaining a consistent style? I want my work to lean heavier on the feeling of intimacy/journalism the 35 provides, but I also love the impact the 85 creates especially in portraits and ceremonies.
It is totally possible! I mainly shoot with a 50, 85 and 35 on wedding days!
So I have the Canon 70-200 L series lenses. Everyone loved it, so many great reviews. But it is heavy. Regretting the purchase. I need to work more with lens. How do compare it to your favorite. Do you prefer your 85 more?
The 70-200 is more useful when you are in a situation where you can't move around too much. When you are doing portraits and you can move yourself and your client around, the 85 is amazing (as is the 50). When you are working an event like a wedding, the 70-200 has a bit more versatility despite not letting in as much light.
I have the 70-200 for wedding days but it's not a good fit as a portrait lens for me! DEFINITELY prefer the 85mm over the 70-200!
Awesome! I have a 50mm lens already but wasn’t sure which lens to get next, whether it be the 35mm or 85mm, but this helped me so much! Do you have a preference on the 85mm 1.2 vs the 1.4? I’ve heard mixed reviews on the 1.2 and wanted to know your thoughts on it.
I think it has to do with the focus of the 1.2. I've read people prefer the 1.4 because it's sharp and you get more keeper shots.
1.4 is WAY better! I own both! I would also say, the 35mm is way more versatile. If you don't have any other wide lens option and you're a wedding photographer, you may need the 35 over the 85mm!
Quick question . . . just started using the 85mm - whenever I focus on one person anyone else in the pic is blurred (soft). So if I focus on one person and recompose anyone else in the pic is "soft." What am I doing wrong?
I also use 85mm for weddings, and guess what, I rarely switch to another focal length… 👍
How well would this lens work on a crop sensor camera?
Great information! I've been looking for a good higher mm lens
Glad it was helpful!
Do you always use high iso natural light outdoor photos
Here because I’m trying to like 85 lol 50 is my baby. The example shot is a little confusing. Would have liked to see the 50 with the same composition as the 85, but it’s a good point that the 85 will continually force you to be more intentional.
Thanks for sharing!
I really like my 85mm too
Yes!! It is the best!
Why do you choose the 1.4 over the 1.2?
I have had the 85 1.2 for many years and it's my absolute favorite lens. My images are tack sharp (I do not have the problem you describe about soft images). It is also incomparable in low light, indoor situations, though a tad slow to focus. Is there a discernible difference in focus speed between the 1.4 and the 1.2? Thank you Katelyn.
The IS (image stabilization) feature makes a massive difference!!! So much more reliable!
Why the 1.4 vs 1.2? Tried looking in your videos but couldn't find if you've done one
And how do you know you are buying the newest version especially if you are buying used
I just love the 1.2. You should be able to look it up by serial number.
@@KatelynJames but you have the 1.4?
hi katelyn ... I recently bought the eos R6 too and I think it's a little gem. now buying the 85 f2 is a bit too expensive for me. do you think the new RF 85 f2 is a good choice? have you already been able to have it in your hands? obviously there is a big difference in price between the two but f2 is an RF for the R6. what do you think about it?
sorry for my English.
I think it would be a great lens, but the cost is a huge factor!! We just got the RF 28-70 f2 and we have been really impressed!
@@KatelynJames ehhhhhh rf 28-70 ... best in the world.
Have you ever used a 135, I use mine a lot and really like it as well I finally got the 50 and like it also, just not sure how the 85 would fall into the mix.
We have the 135 and I use it during ceremonies when I need to be back pretty far. The 85 is my portrait go to!!
I got a 85mm nikon lens i like to know how to use it better please explain to me
Do you think it is worth to change this lens for the new RF 85 1.2?
I dont think so. But I need to try it
So beautiful! I have been contemplating getting the Canon 85mm 1.8 and have seen good reviews. Obviously, it is also much cheaper than the 1.4L. Would you say there is a significant difference in quality between them that's worth the price difference? Is it worth investing in the 1.4L instead?
I love the 85 1.4 I would recommend renting them both and seeing which you prefer!
I'm curious if you have used the 135 mm and how you would compare the 85 to it. Worth getting the 85 if you already own the 135??
the 135mm is great for ceremonies for me but I do think this is such a difference with the 85. that extra focal length makes it extra hard for portraits!
What are your thoughts on using the 85mm for large group photos?
I do not recommend it unless you have a lot of space to back up!!
I love love this lens! I seem to get a lot of chromatic aberration with it though. Any suggestions?!
I would make sure that it is locking focus completely. I would also pay attention to how wide your aperture is. If this continues at say 2.5 there may be an issue with the lens.
I am starting out and have a crop (t7i), but I am collecting EF lens to be prepared for upgrade. I currently have 50mm and the kit lens. Would you still recommend this lens as next purchase for portrait?
It really depends on what you are shooting, This video should help: ruclips.net/video/Jc7w6fxoxgs/видео.html
I wonder how many 85s you've sold with this video lol.. I have the canon 85mm 1.8 and have been trying to use it more. But since switching to the R6 I've been wanting the 50 1.2... but... hmmm...
Haha! Yeah Canon I want a cut !!
Hi! How do you feel about the 105mm?
I have never used it.
If you’re on a budget would you suggest the 85 1.8 or holding out and saving for the 1.4?
I love the 85 1.4. Maybe try renting it and seeing if you love it too!
I have both. I think it depends on how long you can hold out and save for the 1.4. The 85 1.8 can produce some amazing images. But it's not super fast focusing (though it's faster than say the 85 mm 1.2). And it doesn't produce particularly sharp images (though they look beautiful). I didn't realize that the 1.8 images weren't sharp until I owned the 1.4. Now I look back at the older photos and they have a softer look to them (but still fantastic). The 1.4 is in a different league. You can shoot in darker situations. The bokeh is really really nice. It has image stabilization so you don't need to have as steady of a hand as the 1.8 (which doesn't have IS). and the images are super sharp. Even with the same camera, I saw detail in the 1.4 that wasn't there in the 1.8. And one more thing, the 1.8 had more things like chromatic aberration. I feel the 1.4 is one of the best lenses that Canon ever made and when you factor how crazy good the value is compared to their other lenses, it's a must buy. Some say having a bunch of lenses is better value than an expensive one. But I look back, and with my really amazing lenses, I just keep shooting with them. And the other lenses just sit there. So go with a lens that will keep you shooting. But on a budget, I think you would love the 1.8. I make it sound like the 1.8 is not so great but that's after using the 1.4. Before I got the 1.4, it was nothing but superlatives for the 1.8.
When you're at home inside what is the lens that stays on your camera to catch those moments.
I have been using the 24-70 a lot at home recently
Do you ever use the 85mm during wedding ceremonies? Do you find yourself preferring something wider like a 24mm instead?
I use my 85 at ceremonies all of the time! I also use the 35mm for a few wide shots!
@@KatelynJames Would love to see examples during ceremonies as well! (:
Okay, I have the 85 1.2 - is there a big difference between that and the 85 1.4?
The 1.4 has image stabilization that is amazing and the focus is much better!
See above!
Do you shoot with this lens generally wide open? Or is there a sweet spot you have discovered?
Not hardly ever! I LOVE it at 2.0 and 2.2! I will sometimes shoot at 1.6 and it's great!
I don’t think of the 50mm as a distance lens. It’s a closer up portrait lens. It has a purpose. Different from the 85mm
True!
How is the 85 different than a 100? I have a 100mm.
The 100mm is typically a macro. It's SO different! The compression, the focus, the feel of it while shooting! They are VERY different lenses.
And why 85 more than 135?
I prefer the 85 for portraits.
I have this lens and the 85mm 1.8 also. I was never happy with the clarity of the 1.8 but the 1.4 is amazing. I got it for it's IS which is very uncommon on such a fast lens. I use it on a 7D2 so it works out to be about 135mm, very good for subject separation and background control. I tend to get in close with it so I use it different to you but I think I love it just as much!
My insta for anyone interested: instagram.com/tonygrantpix
Thanks for watching!
So...the 85 1.4 is newer and better, but it’s less expensive than the 85 1.2?🤔
Correct! I do not think you need the 1.2!
I havent used mine very often because I am afraid to use it with families since I would have to be so far away. Do you have examples with families?
I will try to add some in future videos!
Do you love the 85mm 1.4 more than the 1.2?
Alicia White she talks about this around 2 mins into the video. 🙂 The 1.2 had softer images
Yes! The Image stablization is so nice!
Is it just me or Do they seem a bit over exposed! I could be wrong!