Aperture: Features a fast maximum aperture of f/1.4, which is excellent for low-light photography, controlling depth of field, and creating a shallow depth of field with beautiful bokeh.
Image Stabilization: This is the first 85mm L-series lens to incorporate image stabilization. The 4-stop optical image stabilization system helps to minimize camera shake, allowing for sharp handheld shots in challenging light conditions.
Optical Design:
Comprised of 14 elements in 10 groups.
Includes one glass-molded aspherical element to correct spherical aberrations and distortion, ensuring high sharpness and clarity from center to edge.
Features Canon's Air Sphere Coating (ASC) to significantly reduce flare and ghosting, especially in backlit situations.
A rounded 9-blade diaphragm contributes to pleasing, smooth bokeh.
Autofocus (AF) System:
Equipped with a ring-type Ultrasonic Motor (USM) for fast, precise, and quiet autofocus.
Offers full-time manual focus override, allowing for fine-tuned adjustments without switching to manual focus mode.
Handling and Build:
Part of Canon's prestigious L-series, it features a robust, dust- and moisture-resistant construction for use in harsh weather conditions.
A fluorine coating on the front and rear elements helps repel water, oil, and smudges, making the lens easier to clean.
Relatively compact and lightweight for a lens with these specifications, weighing approximately 950g.
Use Cases: Highly regarded as a top choice for portrait photographers due to its flattering focal length, fast aperture, and ability to create a strong separation between the subject and the background. It is also well-suited for wedding, event, and indoor sports photography.