not another lens thread!!!!

yes it is =]

Ok so my next major purchase will be my primary portrait lens. Currently I shoot with my 135L however It is not the best Portrait lens. (IMHO) SOOOOOO, I will be purchasing the 35L or 85 1.2 MKII

My question is, If I go with the less expensive (35L) will I regret it? I know how sharp and crisp the 85 is, but the 35 IS HALF the price, but is it as sharp....

big difference in focal length as well. how does that factor in for you?

no, you won't be happy. are you going to let a small amount of money keep you from happiness? my advice is don't let that happen, you only live once, enjoy it.

James,

I don't know if you are shooting crop or full frame, but you may want to read about lens distortion especially if this lens is for portraits. Look at these pictures at least

http://stepheneastwood​.com …nsdistortion/ti​lepage.htm

Also, how is your 135L falling short? I am very curious as I have heard nothing but the BEST things from that lens

Rent both; you can compare side by side shots

Only you can decide what "sharp" enough is in your viewpoint.

Sorry every one, let me drop a little more info


I shoot with a 5DMKII so yes full frame.... also i plan on owning them both eventually but just wanted to know wich one to buy first. I HAVE owned the 85 in the past and i hate myself for ever getting rid of it. Focal length is not a HUGE factor for me but the 35 would be really nice for those tight spots. How often does that happen though.

mattmorgan44 wrote in post #14214460
James,

I don't know if you are shooting crop or full frame, but you may want to read about lens distortion especially if this lens is for portraits. Look at these pictures at least

http://stepheneastwood​.com …nsdistortion/ti​lepage.htm

Also, how is your 135L falling short? I am very curious as I have heard nothing but the BEST things from that lens

135 is amazing but as far as a portrait lens it just pushes me too far away for my comfort.

The 85L is just special start with the more expensive one, and then later down the line buying the 35 won't seem so bad, haha thats my mentality!

For portrait, I take 135 any day over the other two. And yes I have all three of them. However 35L is the best walk around prime for me. I can travel the world with you 35L but not the other two.

man that 85 is temtping....

James504 wrote in post #14215936
man that 85 is temtping....

I got mine recently, took a lowlight picture and literally squealed outloud (much to the enjoyment of those around me) when i looked at the shot because of the light it let in at f/1. 2 and the colour it produced was stunning. You wont be disappointed

Go for the 85mm f/1.2L II, please !

Here is a sample: @ f/1.2, 1/350, ISO 100

James504 wrote in post #14215024
135 is amazing but as far as a portrait lens it just pushes me too far away for my comfort.

Ok that's fine, but 35 will distort way too much for your full frame for portraits, so I would definitely take the 85

ugg.... I think I am going for the 85.... I am just so damn curious about that 35, maybe I should rent it.

85L certainly is a "dream lens"... But you could get Sigma 85/1.4 (almost) or Canon 85/1.8 (easily) and 35L, for the price of the 85/1.2L.

Previous post is right... 35mm is not your normal portrait lens... usable for wider, environmental portraits. But not too close, or it exaggerate