Canon Releases RF 85mm F/1.2L USM

2019.05.09

Last night, Canon officially launched the ultra-bright portrait prime lens shown as a prototype when they launched their new RF Full-Frame Mirrorless Digital Camera platform. The new mount with its wide throat and short flange distance makes it possible to design lenses with superior optical performance and so Canon started the system with several showcase lenses, including the unique Canon RF 28-70mm F/2L USM, the brightest Full-Frame Zoom to date.

While the new Canon RF 85mm F/1.2L USM is specified similarly to an EF lens of the same focal-length and aperture, this one is designed to deliver the ultimate image quality rather than compactness which is most often the main advantage of mirrorless lenses. This short telephoto prime is ideal for portraits and renders bokeh really smooth thanks to a 9-blade aperture and special lens elements that reduce aberrations around out-of-focus spots.

Canon built their new RF 85mm to a high standard of weather-resistance and, interestingly, vibration resistance. This lens is in fact heaver than its DSLR counterpart and weights 1.2kg.

The Canon RF 85mm F/1.2L USM is expected to ship next month for $2700 USD or $2500 CAD. Amazon, Adorama and B&H Photo are already accepting pre-orders. Lock in your order now to ensure being among the first to receive this lens. As always, your credit card will not get charged until the product ships.

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