Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L USM - The Keg

[Jon8]

http://imagehost.vendio.com/a/3730802/aview/fish2.jpg

http://imagehost.vendio.com/a/3730802/aview/coquillage.jpg

[Jon8]

http://imagehost.vendio.com/a/3730802/aview/autoportrait1.jpg

[Ball4]

http://imagehost.vendio.com/a/3730802/aview/fish2.jpg


Cool shot!

[cwphoto]

EOS-1D Mark III, 85/1.2 II, ISO 100, 1/250s @ f/2:
http://www.dcresource.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=40464&stc=1&d=1222696476

EOS-1D Mark III, 85/1.2 II, ISO 200, 1/2,000s @ f/2:
http://www.dcresource.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=40474&stc=1&d=1222699006

EOS-1D Mark III, 85/1.2 II, ISO 200, 1/640s @ f/2:
http://www.dcresource.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=40486&stc=1&d=1222701733

[swjim]

^^ those are beautiful, cwphoto.

[sprite]

^^ those are beautiful, cwphoto.

They certainly are very nice - the one in the car is my favourite though.

Mark

[djharmonix]

http://www.pbase.com/nicolasshapiro/image/103731243/original.jpg

[airbutchie]

I just acquired mine... Initial samples taken today...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v467/airbutchie/Various%20Images/IMG_4430.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v467/airbutchie/Various%20Images/IMG_4440.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v467/airbutchie/Various%20Images/IMG_4413.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v467/airbutchie/Various%20Images/IMG_4423.jpg

I could hardly wait to use it for portraiture work... I truly love the DOF it produces...

- airbutchie ;)

[Perry Ge]

Argh I would sell my kidney for this lens.

[djharmonix]

Argh I would sell my kidney for this lens.

I sold this lens to buy my 2001 subaru legacy GT...

If I didn't have such a deal on the car I would regret it.

[djharmonix]

Both @ 1.2

http://www.pbase.com/nicolasshapiro/image/103729518/original.jpg



http://www.pbase.com/nicolasshapiro/image/103730116/original.jpg

[TeeTee]

Both @ 1.2

[IMG]http://www.pbase.com/nicolasshapiro/image/103729518/original.jpg[IMG]



[IMG]http://www.pbase.com/nicolasshapiro/image/103730116/original.jpg[IMG]

Harmonix, let me guess is that St Catherines St? Ah makes me homesick..

[djharmonix]

It's Metcalfe i believe, you see the Paramount theatre corner st-catherine in the back!

Its very cool, everytime I post people from all over the world recognize Montreal!

[djharmonix]

taken at midnight in a park, you can't tell by the picture but it was almost pitch dark. The extreme aperture of this lens gives the illusion that it's a day scene.
ISO1600 @ F1.2
http://www.pbase.com/nicolasshapiro/image/98122854/original.jpg

[tonylong]

taken at midnight in a park, you can't tell by the picture but it was almost pitch dark. The extreme aperture of this lens gives the illusion that it's a day scene.
ISO1600 @ F1.2
http://www.pbase.com/nicolasshapiro/image/98122854/original.jpg

Well, so much for "photography is realism" -- thanks for forcing the "day as night" paradigm on us. It's not fair, I tell you! I don't want to go out shooting in the dark:)!

[Collin85]

Well, so much for "photography is realism" -- thanks for forcing the "day as night" paradigm on us. It's not fair, I tell you! I don't want to go out shooting in the dark:)!

*grabs his rake*

That's it gang, let's get him! :mad:

:lol:

[tonylong]

*grabs his rake*

That's it gang, let's get him! :mad:

:lol:

Don't go gettin' midieval on me...

[Collin85]

Don't go gettin' midieval on me...

Hey, I'm trying to be nice to our friend djharmonix here. I could go 21st century and use firearms instead, but that would hurt a wee bit more. :lol:

[TeeTee]

taken at midnight in a park, you can't tell by the picture but it was almost pitch dark. The extreme aperture of this lens gives the illusion that it's a day scene.
ISO1600 @ F1.2
[IMG]http://www.pbase.com/nicolasshapiro/image/98122854/original.jpg[IMG]

That park shot is actually one of the shots that convinced me that this lens can perform.

How was Montreal this summer? I usually head back at least once a year but have just been too busy, looks like it was same as usual with all the summer events. I'll probably be back in winter, especially if the new 5D is cheaper there than it is here! :p

[djharmonix]

That park shot is actually one of the shots that convinced me that this lens can perform.

How was Montreal this summer? I usually head back at least once a year but have just been too busy, looks like it was same as usual with all the summer events. I'll probably be back in winter, especially if the new 5D is cheaper there than it is here! :p

Summer wasn't good weather-wise.. Lots of showers.

N-e way, I was stuck inside my house renovating all summer so the weather didn't matter to me.

Also alot of construction on the roads and downtown.
I guess next summer is gonna be very nice!

[Jman13]

Oh I can't wait until mine gets here. I have a 3 year old Mark I coming next Monday or Tuesday. It'll be a long wait.

[wimg]

Oh I can't wait until mine gets here. I have a 3 year old Mark I coming next Monday or Tuesday. It'll be a long wait.
Ah, no! That is a VERY long wait. Especially knowing what you can expect .... :D

Kind regards, Wim ;)

[djharmonix]

I've never tried the mk1 but be aware that it produces alot of purple fringing.

I've rented and owned about 4 different mk2 and I can tell you that it's the lens biggest flaw.

It was supposed to be much better on the mk2 so i can only imagine how bad it is on the first version.

Great lens nonetheless, just watch out for harsh light!

[sprite]

I get some fringing at 1.2 in bright light occasionally and don't really care, when I shoot this lens I also know because of the shallow depth of field that I'll have fewer keepers but those that I do keep are generally really wonderful. I consider it one of the challenges of the lens, and offers a look hard to get with anything else I've ever shot with. My 135 L f2 also offers a very unique look wide open, very unique but different than the 85LII 1.2, both amazing. But I cannot seem to get a certain look from any other lens that can get when the color and bokeh are just right with the 85LII 1.2.

Couldn't agree more - it is wonderful when it all comes together - sublime indeed.

Mark

[jeffahn]

I recently had the delight of this lens:

on 5D @ 1.2
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2031/2519332485_e1386e03de_o.jpg

[TeeTee]

I recently had the delight of this lens:

on 5D @ 1.2
[IMG]http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2031/2519332485_e1386e03de_o.jpg[IMG]

That's almost TSE like (tilt shift). This lens really has it's own style as many others say, I'm still very much getting the hang of mine. Need a few shoots with it under my belt to figure it out...

[BlueTsunami]

ARGH. I totally have 85L lust right now... I'm thinking I might sell my 50mm f/1.4 and get this damn lens to replace. I was looking into the 70-200mm for a portrait lens but this Prime is just absolutely sick.

[Borderfox]

I find it very versatile for a lot of stuff that I do (I checked before I bought it)

Portraits
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y213/Borderfox/IMG_2216.jpg

Commercial Work
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y213/Borderfox/IMG_7695.jpg

It really will shoot in some of the darkest places I have had to work

[Dorman]

I have 85L lust too - just not sure about the FL on my 1.6 bodies, and the price tag of course!

[djharmonix]

I have 85L lust too - just not sure about the FL on my 1.6 bodies, and the price tag of course!

It's just as nice on the APSC than FF. A little bit tighter but it completes my 24-70mm well on FF.

When I do weddings i have the 24-70mm on the 5D and 85mm on the 30D so 135mm!

[Dorman]

It's just as nice on the APSC than FF. A little bit tighter but it completes my 24-70mm well on FF.

When I do weddings i have the 24-70mm on the 5D and 85mm on the 30D so 135mm!

When I shoot weddings I currently have the 17-55 on one 30D, 70-200 on the other. Not entirely sure I'd switch the 70-200 off for the 85mm. 50L might be a better range for me on my current bodies, but on FF I'd definitely rock the 85L.

[ekie]

When I shoot weddings I currently have the 17-55 on one 30D, 70-200 on the other. Not entirely sure I'd switch the 70-200 off for the 85mm. 50L might be a better range for me on my current bodies, but on FF I'd definitely rock the 85L.

it was this lens that made me sell my 40D and get a 5D. great on both bodies but i like it much more on the 5D :D

[Alejandro Sandoval]

I find it very versatile for a lot of stuff that I do (I checked before I bought it)

Portraits
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y213/Borderfox/IMG_2216.jpg

Commercial Work


It really will shoot in some of the darkest places I have had to work

I love that shot very nice...

[djharmonix]

OMG do I love canon gear.

This equipment works very well. After many jobs I'm still often suprised by the quality of the 5D combined with good optics.

here's a shot from the wedding I did today.

ISO1600 F1.2 1/20th

http://www.pbase.com/nicolasshapiro/image/104086715/original.jpg

[airbutchie]

^ Can't see it, djharmonix... Fix please...

- airbutchie

[x2x3x4x5x]

I need this lens. Feel free to donate.
:lol:

[djharmonix]

image should work...

http://www.pbase.com/nicolasshapiro/image/104086715/original.jpg

[philthejuggler]

image should work...

http://www.pbase.com/nicolasshapiro/image/104086715/original.jpg

I cannot see it.

[BlueTsunami]

I can see it... but it disappeared on the last page.

[Dorman]

I need this lens. Feel free to donate.
:lol:

2nd in line for handouts. :)

[airbutchie]

My Xterra ready to offroad... BRING THE MUD!!!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v467/airbutchie/Xterra/IMG_0089.jpg

- airbutchie ;)

[Rhinotherunt]

My Xterra ready to offroad... BRING THE MUD!!!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v467/airbutchie/Xterra/IMG_0089.jpg

- airbutchie ;)
Where is the after photo?

[airbutchie]

^ Sorry Ryan... No after photo... She doesn't like to be photographed dirty!! Hhehehhehehe...

- airbutchie ;)

[TeeTee]

Some pictures from an impromptu walk today.

Southbank. London, UK.

http://www.eljackimages.com/temp/london100708/photo.jpg

http://www.eljackimages.com/temp/london100708/photo-2.jpg

http://www.eljackimages.com/temp/london100708/photo-3.jpg

http://www.eljackimages.com/temp/london100708/photo-6.jpg

[BlueTsunami]

I love how there's this great feeling of DoF even from far off (and its not as over the top). Extremely pleasing to the eye. Wonderful shots, TeeTee. I like the fourth one the most.

[tiarehi]

Tested on 5D with borrowed 85L:

"Bionicle"

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3054/2920425437_44b0e5c212_o.jpg

[farrukh]

Some pictures from an impromptu walk today.

Southbank. London, UK.



Lovely shots, such a treat to watch.

[FlyingPhotog]

Some pictures from an impromptu walk today.

Southbank. London, UK.http://www.eljackimages.com/temp/london100708/photo-3.jpg


Very nicely seen and captured...

[Jman13]

First shots from my mark I, which I got yesterday. These aren't anything special, but I haven't had a chance to go out and really shoot. The lens will get quite a workout next weekend, as I'm shooting senior pictures for someone.

Anyway, here they are.

This is a coworker...she was sick today, so excuse the lack of enthusiasm...just caught her quickly as she was going to her car: @ f/1.2
http://www.jordansteele.com/forumlinks/andrea.jpg

Tree at my office @ f/1.2:
http://www.jordansteele.com/forumlinks/85L_tree.jpg

My daughter, eating Mr. Star @ f/1.4:
http://www.jordansteele.com/forumlinks/chloe_star.jpg

And finally, my favorite bokeh torture test post @ f/1.2. I take shots of this post wide open with every lens I get, as it's a great way to test sharpness, and it's an extreme bokeh challenge. So far, every lens I've shot has only passed this with an 'ok.' The 85L nailed it:
http://www.jordansteele.com/forumlinks/85L_post.jpg

[James M]

Only got it this afternoon so heres a quick one at f1.2

http://jamesmarshall.net/dd/f1.2.jpg

[ovi.dutu]

just a shot taken some weeks ago

[Yellowmsp]

quick one from yesterday
http://img371.imageshack.us/img371/2267/kj1y6142webpf6.jpg

[echo]

A portrait I shot with the 85L, bit of PS etc.

http://www.recordproduction.com/tristan-ivemy-record-producer640.jpg

:)

Mike

[tonylong]

Pretty cool effect, Mike! I normally tend to stop down for faces, but you really nailed the sharp eyes, and they nail us when seeing this shot. Good job!

[James M]

Few more from me, really enjoying this lens now I'm getting to grips with it.

http://jamesmarshall.net/dd/sid1.jpg

http://jamesmarshall.net/dd/sid2.jpg

http://jamesmarshall.net/dd/sid3.jpg

[airbutchie]

Gotta love the sharpness of this wonder glass... More so when you stop it down just a bit...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v467/airbutchie/Photography/01-85L-model-sample.jpg

- airbutchie ;)

[dilorenzo1954]

Just getting around to processing images from vacation. This one was taken at a street art fair...

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3043/2936302360_d3f835a478_b_d.jpg

[ekie]

i had to use a 6-stop ND filter on this one so i can shoot at a shallow depth of field with off-camera flashes .. F/1.6, 1/200

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3168/2940589366_a04f8ec15b_o.jpg

[Sfordphoto]

darn you ekk, you always make me want to get this lens

[ekie]

darn you ekk, you always make me want to get this lens

do it do it lolol :D

[Sfordphoto]

do it do it lolol :D

after the 5dmk2 bro :)

it is the next lens on my list

[Jman13]

Here are two more from mine.

This was at f/2.8 (LOVE the colors from this lens):
http://www.jordansteele.com/images/recent/yellow_maple_leaves.jpg

And this was at f/1.2:
http://www.jordansteele.com/forumlinks/dead_pear.jpg

I can't believe how sharp this is at f/1.2...100% crop of above:
http://www.jordansteele.com/forumlinks/pear_crop.jpg

[TristanCardew]

After reading the last 95 pages of this thread i've decided:

1. A lot of you guys have the 5D, huh? I never realised how many 5D users there were. Or 5D users with the 85 1.2L. You turn out some exceptional shots.

2. I think I want a 5D and an 85 1.2L.

[ekie]

After reading the last 95 pages of this thread i've decided:

1. A lot of you guys have the 5D, huh? I never realised how many 5D users there were. Or 5D users with the 85 1.2L. You turn out some exceptional shots.

2. I think I want a 5D and an 85 1.2L.

85L was the reason why i sold my 40D for a 5D :D

[echo]

After reading the last 95 pages of this thread i've decided:

1. A lot of you guys have the 5D, huh? I never realised how many 5D users there were. Or 5D users with the 85 1.2L. You turn out some exceptional shots.

2. I think I want a 5D and an 85 1.2L.

Works great with 1DmkIII or other 1.3 crop great too!

[James M]

Some more

http://jamesmarshall.net/dd/eve10.jpg

http://jamesmarshall.net/dd/eve11.jpg

[inthedeck]

sorry, had to delete this one, per request. :(

[Jman13]

Another silly leaf photo - f/1.6:

http://www.jordansteele.com/forumlinks/leaf_trailer.jpg

And my daughter @ f/1.2:

http://www.jordansteele.com/forumlinks/chloe_star_eat.jpg

[tonylong]

After reading the last 95 pages of this thread i've decided:

1. A lot of you guys have the 5D, huh? I never realised how many 5D users there were. Or 5D users with the 85 1.2L. You turn out some exceptional shots.

2. I think I want a 5D and an 85 1.2L.

Hand in glove:)!

[Wazza]

Some very neat shots here!

Here's a couple 85L shots taken with a 1DIII

http://www.warrenwilliams.co.nz/2008/85-s.jpg (http://www.warrenwilliams.co.nz/2008/85.jpg)
Straight out of camera - click for full res

http://www.warrenwilliams.co.nz/2008/OCT_0254.jpg
Last weekend in a dark tunnel

[BOUNCINGNRG]

Some very neat shots here!

Here's a couple 85L shots taken with a 1DIII

Straight out of camera - click for full res

http://www.warrenwilliams.co.nz/2008/OCT_0254.jpg
Last weekend in a dark tunnel

Mint shot mate.

[theveed]

Here's my review (http://reviews.davidleetong.com/?p=41)

[Jman13]

Leaves are in vogue. @ f/1.2:

http://www.jordansteele.com/forumlinks/leaf_fence.jpg

[SeattleSpeedster]

great shots everyone....this is what I put on when i want the sharpest I've got

Trip to the Japanese Garden:

http://www.vispoint.com/album/Kubota%20Gardens/slides/IMG_9729.jpg

[jgogums]

Really inspiring photos in this thread!

My girl recovering from surgery...:cry:.

5D, f/1.2, spleenless dog.

[timnosenzo]

Really inspiring photos in this thread!

My girl recovering from surgery...:cry:.

5D, f/1.2, spleenless dog.

Great shot! Hope your pup is OK. :(

[shaktipalooza]

Unfortunately I forgot to have the makeup artist do a quick change before heading out the door to the last location shot of the day. I'm not digging the lipstick...
http://www.largelifephotography.com/photos/396458805_jPwU2-L.jpg

http://www.largelifephotography.com/photos/395239417_dk3TN-L.jpg

http://www.largelifephotography.com/photos/396458735_Ev2Bi-L.jpg

[SeattleSpeedster]

oh hell one more...from the garden

http://www.vispoint.com/album/Kubota%20Gardens/slides/IMG_9747.jpg

[Sfordphoto]

Unfortunately I forgot to have the makeup artist do a quick change before heading out the door to the last location shot of the day. I'm not digging the lipstick...


very nice shots, i like the 2nd one especially

didn't notice the lipstick until you mentioned it.

what aperture(s) did you use?

[theveed]

@Shakti: wonderful stuff.... esp the jacket!

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3068/2893710739_6ff9f9092a.jpg

[Jman13]

Dear lord this is sharp. I haven't shot much at the smaller apertures, as I usually am shooting in very dim light, and I usually don't like flash. I did just get an off-camera flash cord, and I was trying it out on my cat. This is at f/3.5:

http://www.jordansteele.com/forumlinks/arthur85L.jpg

100% unsharpened crop of the above:
http://www.jordansteele.com/forumlinks/arthur85Lcrop.jpg

[Jman13]

A few from a senior picture shoot (my first) that I did yesterday:

http://www.jordansteele.com/forumlinks/sd/sarah_coat_tree.jpg

http://www.jordansteele.com/forumlinks/sd/sarah_portrait_blue.jpg

http://www.jordansteele.com/forumlinks/sd/sarah_blue_pose.jpg

[GMCPhotographics]

Who ever said that this lens wasn't versatile? Photographed in Ljubijania, Slovenia using a Canon 5D:
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3062/2959005843_91c0c5c3a0_o.jpg

And another:
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3032/2959007511_8e29cef42a_o.jpg

[inthedeck]

^Powerful image. Use some ND's?

[GMCPhotographics]

A PS blend of 3 exposures, i'm moving away from filters these days. My complete set of Lee is going on Ebay soon. After years of saying it can't be done as well....erm it can :-)

[inthedeck]

Agreed. In my flickr, I have an HDR shot of rain clouds. It's got all the dynamic range I could use, and more, and I didn't need filters, either.

You've got some nice images there, and the FL you used is just perfect. :) Nice set.

[tonylong]

I posted these on the 5D thread, but I'm here to spread the love:)!

Today I saw these nice fall colors, and took a quick shot just to pick up the mix of colors against the spotty blue/cloudy sky. The light was dim and I didn't want to overexpose the background, so I underexposed the trees, shot in RAW, and used Lightroom love (1.4) to bring it all to life (no PS stuff, no HDR).

The first pic is "out of camera" converted to jpeg using LR defaults, the second is after massaging it in Lightroom. Exif attached.

Enjoy!
http://www.pbase.com/tonylong/image/104829253/original.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/tonylong/image/104829332/original.jpg

[echo]

Unfortunately I forgot to have the makeup artist do a quick change before heading out the door to the last location shot of the day. I'm not digging the lipstick...

Very nice work!

One I took the other day at f/1.8 on 1DmkIII

http://recordproduction.smugmug.com/photos/399472474_goj8M-XL.jpg

:)

Mike

[x2x3x4x5x]

Mike it seems like you found yourself quite the niche market - record producers.

Good clean and crisp images are always posted from you. Keep it up, man!

[echo]

Mike it seems like you found yourself quite the niche market - record producers.

Good clean and crisp images are always posted from you. Keep it up, man!

Thanks :)

One day I hope to branch out of recording studios and take on other subjects though I'm trying to document the people behind the scenes making records. Many of these did classic tracks, such as Chris Kimsey who did many of the best Rolling Stones records etc, and put faces to those credits on the back of albums.

Pic of Chris Kimsey taken the same day as the above pic with 85L. Not very happy with this one really as I just can't get the skin tone right.

http://recordproduction.smugmug.com/photos/399330379_sK2LP-XL.jpg

[lbeck]

85L was the reason why i sold my 40D for a 5D :D

Does it not work as good on the 40D? OR is it just better on the 5D. Or is it the crop factor?

[Sfordphoto]

Does it not work as good on the 40D? OR is it just better on the 5D. Or is it the crop factor?

most people like to pair the 85L and 5D together, because in combination, you have 2.6 stops subject isolation advantage over a 85/1.8 and 40D (1.6 from the body and 1 from the lens). you can really enjoy the subject isolation advantages of f/1.2 on a full frame.

another reason is the 85 is a little long on the 40D...equiv to 135mm on a full frame. on a full frame it is more usable indoors

additionally, the 40D has had some problems when used in combination with the 85L...the battery reports itself as being drained when it really isn't. at least i've heard of this issue.

[tonylong]

I've posted this in other places, but here's some 85L fall colors @ f/1.2, 5D:

http://www.pbase.com/tonylong/image/104919588/original.jpg

[EOSBoy]

One of my fave lenses. Time to save!!!

[airbutchie]

Gotta love the DOF... Even at f/2.0 it's wickedly sharp and amazing...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v467/airbutchie/Various%20Images/IMG_4934.jpg

- airbutchie :D

[collierportraits]

Here's one...

[ekie]

finally got done with these pics lol

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3219/2967529361_b3b3a00c5d_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3188/2968374990_886422dbb9_o.jpg

[Harleypugs]

I am testing one out to see if I like it.....

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3044/2969004269_b438c5a889.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3006/2968998287_b9a0386da6.jpg

[Borderfox]

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y213/Borderfox/IMG_4155.jpg

[airbutchie]

^ Hmmmm... So many captions, so little time...

- airbutchie ;)

[GMCPhotographics]

Here's another few 85L / 5D shot that I took in Slovenia a few weeks back:

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3141/2968182054_a794544707_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3214/2968183114_7f449c5f10_o.jpg

[cherrymoon]

Planning to buy a 85L but i'm equiped of a 40D. Some of you guys have this combo. I heard about problems when shooting : after 5 shots, battery is empty. The test i made in my store reveal this problem. He use a noName battery (official Canon dealer already ! - in France).

Do you use noName batteries and have this problem ? Do you have problem shooting 40D+85L ?

[GMCPhotographics]

Have you considered the 50L? It's better suited to the 40D. I have a 85L and a 40D and it's a bit long. I get regular AF issues at f1.2 which I don't get with my 85L on my 5D or 135L on my 5D either.

[cherrymoon]

No, because 85mm is my favorite focal length, really ! And especially on APS-C censor

[airbutchie]

Here's another few 85L / 5D shot that I took in Slovenia a few weeks back:

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3141/2968182054_a794544707_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3214/2968183114_7f449c5f10_o.jpg

Beautiful shots, GMC... That first one is stunning...

- airbutchie

[Al Hung]

Have you considered the 50L? It's better suited to the 40D. I have a 85L and a 40D and it's a bit long. I get regular AF issues at f1.2 which I don't get with my 85L on my 5D or 135L on my 5D either.


I don't mean to muck up the thread with questions, but this is the first I've heard of focus issues with the 85L on a 40D - what sort of AF issues do you mean? Is it just the slow AF? I thought that was an inherent issue of the lens and not the body.

[x2x3x4x5x]

AF issues due to a super thin focal plane can happen. I don't think it's lens specific however.

For example, if your 85L focuses properly on the 5D and on your 40D it's giving you issues:
- It may be a camera related problem (either the 5D or 40D is front focusing or back focusing accordingly)
- Your 40Ds AF might be off at f/1.2.

The most prevalent issue with the 85L and 40D happens to be a battery drain issue not a focusing one.

[GMCPhotographics]

My 85IIL is a battery drainer too, but no more than a 70-200mm f2.8 IS. IS units kill batteries too. I have a Ee-S screen fitted to my 5D which really helps with focussing the 85L on my 5D. I have a stock screen in my 40D and the 85L is a SOaB to focus accurately. In the VF, you just can't rely on it wide open. But I don't have the same issue with the 135L and a 40D. I get far better results, I think that the fly by wire AF system and the 40D isn't so well suited. But that's just my findings.

[Harleypugs]

It is a not a AF issue with the 40D, more of a battery issues. It must have to do with the circuits in the 40D because it uses the same battery as the 5d and 30D. There is something about the 40D and 85L combo that kills that battery in 5 - 10 shots. I have never tried it on a 40D so I am only going by what I read on line....and you know how that goes...;)

[airbutchie]

In the spirit of Halloween...

"Frankie Relaxing..."
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3161/2976839402_e68bd6464b_b.jpg

- airbutchie

[philthejuggler]

It is a not a AF issue with the 40D, more of a battery issues. It must have to do with the circuits in the 40D because it uses the same battery as the 5d and 30D. There is something about the 40D and 85L combo that kills that battery in 5 - 10 shots. I have never tried it on a 40D so I am only going by what I read on line....and you know how that goes...;)

They may have fixed the problem with subsequent releases of the 40D, but I've read that you can modify the battery compartment to avoid the issue.

http://www.fredmiranda.com/forum/topic/661416

Includes advice & pictures.

Hope this helps

Phil

[Brian1cj]

Here is a couple that I shot with my 85 last weekend. Funny that this battery issue is coming up, because I discovered the battery "drain" issue as the bride was walking down the isle! Talk about being flustered the rest of the ceremony... I brought 4 batteries which was overkill to begin with, but I thought they had really drained and that I was on my last one before the ceremony was over! I just got this lens about a month ago and hadn't taken a whole series of shots with it. So yeah, 40d users beware! This sort of issue is not what I'd expect from Canon on Canon equipment.

[Yellowmsp]

http://img115.imageshack.us/img115/5585/img1202sc3.jpg
http://img340.imageshack.us/img340/9650/img1129bb3.jpg

[Radiohead369]

Second one is awesome!!!

[dcmiles]

I never had focusing issues with my 40D and 85mm 1.2 mkII before I sold the 40, but I did notice the battery drain. I left the battery grip on mine full time with 2 high cap batteries and I still dont think I ever got over a 100 shots. but then again, I dont think I have even taken 250 with this lens since I bought it in june. Im using it now on either 1D body with no issues what so ever. Can't wait to try it on the 5D mkII! I'll let you know if it's the winning combo I think it will be around thanksgiving.

-cheers

[Yellowmsp]

thanks radiohead! i like that one a lot too...i think it was shot at f2 or 2.8 using my brothers 20d

[tooty]

Planning to buy a 85L but i'm equiped of a 40D. Some of you guys have this combo. I heard about problems when shooting : after 5 shots, battery is empty. The test i made in my store reveal this problem. He use a noName battery (official Canon dealer already ! - in France).

Do you use noName batteries and have this problem ? Do you have problem shooting 40D+85L ?

ive had this problem its been at canon and still has the problem DOH so its back to canon and im without my 40d for 3-4 weeks more ahh Problem isnt with the batterys cherrymoon as i tested different batterys and i tested the lens on my 300d with no probs deff 40d 85l specific problem imho

[Brian1cj]

It doesn't matter if you use Canon or other brand (in my case, Impact brand). The battery reports as dead but really has a full charge. After the "drain" you can pop the battery out and back in, put on a 24-70 as in my case, and shoot 700 additional pics in RAW. Canon doesn't admit there is a problem, so if you've got the issue, just sell something because you won't get anywhere. The closest answer to a resolution I got was that it *might* be fixed *someday* with a firmware update but no plans to do so yet. I wasn't about to give up my 85 so I just sold my 40d and bought a 5d. Too bad Canon decides to screw the patrons that are investing heavily into the brand.

By the way... if you ever get a chance to use your 85 on a 5d... (words can't describe)

[Jannie]

85 @ 1.2
http://i205.photobucket.com/albums/bb200/palousegirl/fan.jpg

[The Ghost of FM]

I just love this lens! ;)

Cheers!



.

[tooty]

It doesn't matter if you use Canon or other brand (in my case, Impact brand). The battery reports as dead but really has a full charge. After the "drain" you can pop the battery out and back in, put on a 24-70 as in my case, and shoot 700 additional pics in RAW. Canon doesn't admit there is a problem, so if you've got the issue, just sell something because you won't get anywhere. The closest answer to a resolution I got was that it *might* be fixed *someday* with a firmware update but no plans to do so yet. I wasn't about to give up my 85 so I just sold my 40d and bought a 5d. Too bad Canon decides to screw the patrons that are investing heavily into the brand.

By the way... if you ever get a chance to use your 85 on a 5d... (words can't describe)
Was thinking along those lines brian even more so with the iminent release of the 5d mk 2

[tonylong]

85 @ 1.2
http://i205.photobucket.com/albums/bb200/palousegirl/fan.jpg

Nice work, Jannie!

I like how so much fit into the focal plane, even at f/1.2 -- creative work!

[Jannie]

Thank you very much :-)

[Yellowmsp]

two from today with my new (to me) 5d. nothing special just taken right outside my front door

http://img143.imageshack.us/img143/8000/img6319webja2.jpg
http://img356.imageshack.us/img356/3577/img6320webqb1.jpg

[x2x3x4x5x]

Holy Bokeh batman!

[airbutchie]

I just got mine back from CPS... The general cleaning and re-calibration to make sure it's in tip-top shape... Here are a few samples taken today...

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3017/3005675003_fb9b7931d5.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3050/3005675453_dc7978519c.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3270/3005675869_96d9cfc5a2.jpg

This glass is definately ready for the holiday season!!! Woo hoo!!!

- airbutchie :D

[DANxCORE]

Lens just came today! thanks to potn user Atiyeh. here are just a few shots testing it out.

http://i288.photobucket.com/albums/ll167/danxcorephoto/_MG_2637.jpg

http://i288.photobucket.com/albums/ll167/danxcorephoto/_MG_2638.jpg

http://i288.photobucket.com/albums/ll167/danxcorephoto/_MG_2646.jpg

hope you like em.

[Atiyeh]

right on! Glad you're enjoying the lens Dan

[SeattleSpeedster]

nice shots everyone....love the ceiling fan

went out today in the rain to get some wetness

f/1.2

http://www.vispoint.com/album/Fall%20Colors%20and%20Maples%20III/slides/leaf2.jpg

[FelixW]

i had to use a 6-stop ND filter on this one so i can shoot at a shallow depth of field with off-camera flashes .. F/1.6, 1/200

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3168/2940589366_a04f8ec15b_o.jpgSweet, can you link me to where I can get that ND filter?

[Madweasel]

Sweet, can you link me to where I can get that ND filter?
B&W do a selection of very strong ND filters - I'd guess it's one of those. I believe they do 6, 10 and I thought I'd seen 20-stop ND filters, though that last one I can't seem to find a reference to now.

Here's the 10-stop at B&H: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/180967-REG/B_W__58_mm_110_Neutral.html

[Madweasel]

I've done a bit more searching and it looks like my memory was a little defective (no surprise to me). The strongest B&W is ND4.0, which gives 13 stops reduction. I'm still not sure if it's still available though. Sorry I'm hijacking the thread a little.

[airbutchie]

Took the 85L out for it's first time, after its cleaning and re-calibration, yesterday @ Hunington Library here in SoCal... Here are a few samples...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v467/airbutchie/Photography/_B3E0735.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v467/airbutchie/Photography/_B3E0860.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v467/airbutchie/Photography/_B3E0744.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v467/airbutchie/Photography/_B3E0691.jpg

- airbutchie :D

[TheGreatDivorce]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v680/ixoye/forrest-erin-wedding-0157lrz.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v680/ixoye/forrest-erin-wedding-0156lrz.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v680/ixoye/forrest-erin-wedding-0144lrz.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v680/ixoye/forrest-erin-wedding-0146lrz.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v680/ixoye/forrest-erin-wedding-0021lrz.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v680/ixoye/forrest-erin-wedding-0107lrz.jpg

[echo]

http://img340.imageshack.us/img340/9650/img1129bb3.jpg

Very nice shot!

:)

[Perry Ge]

Alright I think I'm sold. Time to pick up one of these babies.

[Yellowmsp]

Very nice shot!

:)

thank you

Alright I think I'm sold. Time to pick up one of these babies.


for awhile it was my only lens until i picked a really cheap tamrom 17-35 just to have something wide but i never found it a being a problem or really ever found myself in a situation where i wish i had a different lens for the types of things i shoot.....i vote go get one

[Leisa]

Just got this amazing lens. Quite a learning curve. First shots done. I think I need to practise more on the focus.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3172/2966905303_b4404ff338_b.jpg
Taken with 5D, 1/2500, f1.2

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3245/2968430503_aeb8c74ea9_b.jpg
1/2000, f1.2

[Madweasel]

Just got this amazing lens. Quite a learning curve. First shots done. I think I need to practise more on the focus.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3172/2966905303_b4404ff338_b.jpg
Taken with 5D, 1/2500, f1.2

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3245/2968430503_aeb8c74ea9_b.jpg
1/2000, f1.2
That just shows how shallow DOF is at f/1.2. It really makes a difference where you pick your focus point.

[echo]

One taken the other day at f/1.4

http://recordproduction.smugmug.com/photos/414520522_vmTA4-XL.jpg

[iplayazi]

Love this lens! This is taken wide open but I did do some processing on it though

Todd


http://www.pbase.com/iplayazi/image/105764642/original.jpg

[dadCameraGuy]

^^ Stunning cat! Well done!

[Perry Ge]

Friday. On Friday, I will own this lens. Omg. What have you guys done to me, I'm so excited.

[airfrogusmc]

CONGRATS You're gonna love it. You know the drill. We gonna need to see a duck;)

[Yellowmsp]

5D+85L=Sports? or just a really quick way to drain the batteries haha
http://img136.imageshack.us/img136/3720/img6839ml8.jpg
http://img151.imageshack.us/img151/8208/img6835zw4.jpg
http://img205.imageshack.us/img205/8481/img6827vg4.jpg

[kster]

My daughter, shot at f1.8 on a 5D.

http://photos.imageevent.com/kster/family/sophia2008/20080706uhhr83rh3ehd/IMG_7070.jpg

[SeattleSpeedster]

Just got my EF25 II Extension Tube today to see what it could do hooked up to my various lenses. I found the 85L the most compelling due to its creamy bokeh and the tube shortens its long MFD. To me its not "count the bugs hairs" macro but nice...

canon 5D, 85L, handheld

http://www.vispoint.com/album/Volunteer%20Park%20Conservatory%20II/slides/IMG_2095.jpg

http://www.vispoint.com/album/Volunteer%20Park%20Conservatory%20II/slides/IMG_2085.jpg

http://www.vispoint.com/album/Volunteer%20Park%20Conservatory%20II/slides/IMG_2125.jpg

http://www.vispoint.com/album/Volunteer%20Park%20Conservatory%20II/slides/IMG_2055.jpg

Things should improve once I get the hang of this setup

[airbutchie]

^ Stunning... Absolutely stunning...

- airbutchie :)

[Brian1cj]

yeah those are really nice... this lens is known for "painting" the background in watercolor, but the ext tube amplifies it a lot as the backgrounds fade in into blurry abyss. The second photo looks like a painting!

[SeattleSpeedster]

thanks everyone...I have taken few people photos with this lens