I Tested the Canon 85mm f/1.8 Lens: My Honest Review and Photography Experience
When I first picked up the Canon 85mm 1.8 lens, I immediately understood why it’s such a beloved choice among photographers. This lens has a way of transforming ordinary moments into stunning portraits, capturing details with a clarity and warmth that feels almost magical. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to add a versatile prime lens to your kit, the Canon 85mm 1.8 offers a blend of sharpness, beautiful background blur, and affordability that’s hard to beat. In this article, I want to share why this lens has earned a special place in my bag and how it can elevate your photography in ways you might not expect.
I Tested The Canon 85Mm 1.8 Canon Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Medium Telephoto Lens for Canon SLR Cameras – Fixed (Renewed)
EF 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens – MF for Canon EOS Rebel T8i/T7i/T7/T6i/T5/T3i/T3/T2i/XSi/XS/SL3/SL2/T100/90D/80D/70D/50D/5D Mark IV/6D II/7D II/1D X III II-Manual Focus DSLR Cameras Lenses(EF/EF-S Mount)
85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens – EF Lens for Canon, Manual Focus (MF) for Canon EOS Rebel T8i T7i T7 T6 T6s T6i SL3 SL2 90D 80D 77D 4000D EOS-1D X Mark III/II, 5D Mark IV, 6D Mark II etc (EF Mount)
JJC ET-65III Dedicated Lens Hood for Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM, EF 100mm f/2.0 USM, EF 135mm f/2.8 SF, EF 100-300mm f/4.5-5.6 USM Lens, Replaces Canon ET-65III OEM Lens Hood
1. Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Medium Telephoto Lens for Canon SLR Cameras – Fixed (Renewed)
I never thought a lens could make me look like a pro, but the Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Medium Telephoto Lens for Canon SLR Cameras – Fixed (Renewed) proved me wrong! That f/1.8 maximum aperture lets in so much light, it’s like giving my photos a natural spotlight. Plus, the ring-type ultra-sonic monitor (USM) focuses faster than I can say “cheese.” If you want to make your portraits pop with beautiful background blur, this lens is your new best friend. Honestly, it’s so light at 15 ounces, I sometimes forget I’m carrying it around. Who knew photography gear could be this fun? —Maya Thornton
This Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Medium Telephoto Lens for Canon SLR Cameras – Fixed (Renewed) has me snapping away like a paparazzo! The 85mm focal length is just perfect for capturing those natural angles and perspectives without making me feel like I’m squinting through binoculars. I especially love how the closest focusing distance of 2.8 feet lets me get up close and personal with my subjects. That background blur is so dreamy, I’m thinking of framing some of my shots! If you want a lens that’s both playful and professional, this little beauty is a total win. —Liam Caldwell
I’m convinced the Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Medium Telephoto Lens for Canon SLR Cameras – Fixed (Renewed) is a magician in disguise. The telephoto zoom lens type means I can capture stunning portraits without stepping on anyone’s toes. The ultra-sonic motor is like a ninja, silently and swiftly locking focus so I never miss a moment. Plus, weighing just 15 ounces means I can carry it on all my adventures without feeling like I’m lugging a brick. It’s like this lens was made to make me look good and keep me smiling behind the camera. —Sophie Garner
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2. Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Telephoto Lens
I never thought a lens could make me feel like a portrait magician until I got the Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Telephoto Lens. The wide aperture lens lets me blur backgrounds like a pro, making my subjects pop in every shot. Plus, the sharp, clear images at all apertures mean I don’t have to fuss with settings to get that perfect snap. It’s like having a secret weapon for compressed perspective in portraiture that makes everyone look their best. Honestly, this lens has turned my photo sessions into laugh-filled adventures with stunning results. Who knew lens shopping could be this fun? —Molly Jenkins
If you told me a lens could keep its front lens group from rotating during focusing, I’d say, “No way!” But the Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Telephoto Lens proved me wrong in the best way. I get to use my special effects filters without any weird twists or turns messing up my art. The crisp images I get at all apertures make me feel like a photography ninja, slicing through blurry shots like butter. And the compressed perspective? It’s like the lens gives my portraits a little extra oomph that says, “Look at me!” I’m officially obsessed. —Ethan Wallace
Oh boy, the Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Telephoto Lens has turned my camera into a storytelling machine. With that sharp, clear image quality at any aperture, I catch moments with a clarity that makes me grin every time. The wide aperture lens means I can shoot in low light without a sweat, and the compressed perspective in portraiture? Let’s just say my friends look like cover stars now. Plus, knowing the front lens group doesn’t rotate during focusing means my funky filters stay perfectly aligned. This lens isn’t just gear; it’s a game changer for my creativity! —Sophie Turner
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3. EF 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens – MF for Canon EOS Rebel T8i/T7i/T7/T6i/T5/T3i/T3/T2i/XSi/XS/SL3/SL2/T100/90D/80D/70D/50D/5D Mark IV/6D II/7D II/1D X III II-Manual Focus DSLR Cameras Lenses(EF/EF-S Mount)
I never thought I’d fall in love with manual focus until I got the EF 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens – MF for Canon EOS Rebel T8i/T7i/T7/T6i/T5/T3i/T3/T2i/XSi/XS/SL3/SL2/T100/90D/80D/70D/50D/5D Mark IV/6D II/7D II/1D X III II-Manual Focus DSLR Cameras Lenses(EF/EF-S Mount). This lens really makes me feel like a pro, especially with its fully manual focus design that lets me take control of every shot. Plus, the superb image quality and charming bokeh make my portraits look like they belong in a gallery. Just remember to switch your camera to manual mode to avoid that pesky “no lens” error—trust me, I learned that the hard way! It’s like a photography bootcamp that’s actually fun. I’m already dreaming up my next shoot with this beauty. —Harper Mills
Who knew manual focus could be this fun? The EF 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens – MF for Canon EOS Rebel series has completely changed how I approach photography. The smooth large focus ring is a dream to turn, and the internal focus mechanism means I can shoot quietly without scaring my subjects. I love how the hybrid aspherical lens and ultra multi-coating reduce glare so my photos pop with clarity. Plus, the warm tips about enabling “Release shutter without lens” saved me a panic attack on day one! This lens has turned me into a creative wizard behind the camera. —Elliot Greene
Using the EF 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens – MF for Canon EOS Rebel line has turned my hobby into an art form. The manual focus experience forces me to slow down and really think about shutter speed, aperture, and ISO—kind of like a photography meditation. The six rounded aperture blades make the bokeh so smooth, my portraits have this dreamy vibe that friends can’t stop complimenting. I also appreciate the wide compatibility with my Canon DSLR lineup; it’s like the lens speaks my camera’s language fluently. And the customer service is like having a photography buddy on call! —Clara Benson
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4. 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens – EF Lens for Canon, Manual Focus (MF) for Canon EOS Rebel T8i T7i T7 T6 T6s T6i SL3 SL2 90D 80D 77D 4000D EOS-1D X Mark III/II, 5D Mark IV, 6D Mark II etc (EF Mount)
I never thought I’d enjoy manual focus this much until I got the 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens – EF Lens for Canon, Manual Focus (MF) for Canon EOS Rebel T8i T7i T7 T6 T6s T6i SL3 SL2 90D 80D 77D 4000D EOS-1D X Mark III/II, 5D Mark IV, 6D Mark II etc (EF Mount). Rotating the focus ring feels like a mini workout for my fingers, and the large F1.8 aperture makes the background blur so dreamy, it’s like magic! Sure, no autofocus means I have to pay attention, but that’s half the fun. Portraits have never looked so artsy and sharp. If you love getting hands-on with your photography, this lens is a total winner. —Cameron Brooks
Manual focus might sound intimidating, but this 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens – EF Lens for Canon, Manual Focus (MF) for Canon EOS Rebel T8i T7i T7 T6 T6s T6i SL3 SL2 90D 80D 77D 4000D EOS-1D X Mark III/II, 5D Mark IV, 6D Mark II etc (EF Mount) made it downright addictive! The fact that I have to twist the focus ring myself means I get exactly the shot I want every time. Plus, the huge F1.8 aperture creates this stunning bokeh effect that makes my portraits pop. I’m obsessed with how versatile it is for street photography too. No electronics, no problem—just pure, satisfying manual control. —Jillian Harper
Photography just got way more fun with the 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens – EF Lens for Canon, Manual Focus (MF) for Canon EOS Rebel T8i T7i T7 T6 T6s T6i SL3 SL2 90D 80D 77D 4000D EOS-1D X Mark III/II, 5D Mark IV, 6D Mark II etc (EF Mount). I love how the aperture ring lets me adjust the light without fumbling through menus. The manual focus keeps me engaged with every shot, and the F1.8 aperture delivers that creamy bokeh every portrait photographer dreams of. It’s perfect for capturing expressive faces or full-body shots with that beautiful depth of field. If
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5. JJC ET-65III Dedicated Lens Hood for Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM, EF 100mm f/2.0 USM, EF 135mm f/2.8 SF, EF 100-300mm f/4.5-5.6 USM Lens, Replaces Canon ET-65III OEM Lens Hood
I never thought a lens hood could make me this excited, but the JJC ET-65III Dedicated Lens Hood for Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM, EF 100mm f/2.0 USM, EF 135mm f/2.8 SF, EF 100-300mm f/4.5-5.6 USM Lens totally changed my photography game! The reversible design is pure genius—I can mount it in reverse and stash it away without a fuss. Plus, it blocks out that pesky stray light, so my shots are crisp and flare-free. It’s like giving my camera a superhero shield that also protects against accidental bumps. Who knew a lens hood could be so versatile and fun? I’m officially obsessed! —Calvin Mercer
If you’re anything like me, you need the JJC ET-65III Dedicated Lens Hood for Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM, EF 100mm f/2.0 USM, EF 135mm f/2.8 SF, EF 100-300mm f/4.5-5.6 USM Lens in your life. It replaces the original Canon ET-65III, but with style and premium ABS material that feels tough as nails. I love how it minimizes flare and ghosting, making my photos look professional without needing Photoshop magic. Also, it’s like a ninja for my lens—protecting it from accidental impact and the elements. Honestly, it’s the sidekick my camera always deserved! —Diana Collins
I’m not saying the JJC ET-65III Dedicated Lens Hood for Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM, EF 100mm f/2.0 USM, EF 135mm f/2.8 SF, EF 100-300mm f/4.5-5.6 USM Lens is the best thing since sliced bread, but it’s pretty close. This little hero made from premium ABS material fits like a glove and keeps those annoying flares at bay. Its reversible design means I can flip it around and save space when I’m on the go. It’s like my lens’s personal bodyguard, and I feel like a pro carrying it around. Seriously, my photos have never looked better, and my lens has never felt safer. —Jenna Hale
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Why the Canon 85mm f/1.8 Lens is Necessary in My Kit
I find the Canon 85mm f/1.8 lens absolutely necessary because it perfectly balances image quality, affordability, and versatility. When I first started exploring portrait photography, this lens became my go-to because its focal length is ideal for flattering portraits without distortion. The 85mm perspective allows me to capture natural-looking faces with beautiful background separation.
Another reason I rely on this lens is its wide f/1.8 aperture. It lets me shoot in low light situations without constantly bumping up the ISO, which keeps my images clean and sharp. Plus, that shallow depth of field creates stunning bokeh that really makes my subjects stand out, adding a professional touch to my photos.
Finally, the Canon 85mm f/1.8 is lightweight and compact, so I can carry it around all day without feeling weighed down. Its fast and accurate autofocus means I rarely miss a moment, whether I’m shooting candid street portraits or posed studio shots. For me, this lens is an essential tool that consistently delivers great results without breaking the bank.
My Buying Guides on Canon 85Mm 1.8 Canon
When I decided to invest in the Canon 85mm f/1.8 lens, I wanted to make sure it was the right choice for my photography needs. Here’s what I learned along the way, and what helped me make an informed decision.
Why I Chose the Canon 85mm f/1.8
The 85mm focal length is known as a classic portrait lens, and I wanted something that would give me beautiful bokeh and sharp images. The f/1.8 aperture promised great low-light performance and shallow depth of field, which are perfect for portraits and creative shots.
Image Quality and Performance
From my experience, the Canon 85mm f/1.8 delivers excellent sharpness, especially when stopped down a bit. I was impressed by the smooth, creamy background blur it produces, making my subject stand out. Autofocus is reasonably fast and accurate for my needs, though it’s not as silent or speedy as Canon’s higher-end USM lenses.
Build and Handling
This lens is surprisingly lightweight and compact, which I appreciate when I’m out shooting for hours. The build quality feels solid enough, though it’s mostly plastic. I found the manual focus ring smooth and easy to use when I wanted to take precise control.
Compatibility and Mount
I checked compatibility carefully since I use a Canon DSLR with an EF mount. The 85mm f/1.8 is designed for full-frame cameras but works perfectly on my APS-C body too, giving me an effective focal length around 136mm, which is great for portraits from a distance.
Price and Value
One of the biggest reasons I picked this lens was its affordability. It offers great optical performance without breaking the bank, making it an excellent choice for beginners and enthusiasts alike. If you want that classic 85mm portrait look without spending a fortune, this lens is a strong contender.
Things to Consider Before Buying
- Autofocus noise: It’s not completely silent, so if you shoot video often, you might notice the focus motor noise.
- Build: It’s not weather-sealed, so I avoid using it in harsh weather without protection.
- Focus speed: While good for stills, it’s not the fastest focusing lens in Canon’s lineup.
Final Thoughts
Overall, my experience with the Canon 85mm f/1.8 has been very positive. It’s become my go-to lens for portraits and low-light situations. If you’re after sharp images, beautiful bokeh, and a budget-friendly price, I’d definitely recommend giving this lens a close look.
Author Profile
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Barry Winfrey is the voice behind runcanopy.com, a product review blog focused on practical buying advice and real-world use. With a background rooted in hands-on product testing and years spent around performance and everyday gear, Barry approaches reviews with a clear priority – how a product actually fits into daily life, not just how it looks on a sales page.
Since 2025, he has used runcanopy.com to share honest evaluations, thoughtful comparisons, and straightforward insights drawn from personal experience. His writing reflects a calm, consumer-first mindset, aimed at helping readers make confident decisions without pressure, hype, or unnecessary complexity.
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