I own this lens and I think it’s crazy underrated. It’s pretty sharp and the contrast is excellent. I like it so much that I have zero desire to upgrade to the RF 1.2. The fact that this is also a micro lens just makes it that much cooler. Easily my favorite lens in my bag.
@@charl9612 It's F2. If you're super worried about ISO, consider the sigma art 85. It's a full stop faster so you will be at half the ISO as this lens.
Hey, great videos as always Mitch! I just got this lens and absolutely love it!. I used the 85mm EF 1.2 for years and loved it. Now that I have switched over to the mirrorless system (R6 mkii) I have really started to trim a lot weight from my bag and also started shooting some video. So far this lens is filling the 85mm gap at a fraction of the price and more importantly a fraction of the weight. I know this video is old but I wanted to address the slow focus from macro to infinity. As a short cut I set the AF point button to Metering/ AF start and it focuses from macro to infinity in less than 3 seconds. If you let it focus on its own, yes, it takes forever but with this short cut you can speed it up a whole lot. I hope this help someone who's on the fence with this lens. I also ditched my 100mm 2.8 macro and I am just using this for macro now. Its not as sharp as the 100, but man its very close.
I think one of the most important aspect of this lens that reviewers don’t go more in depth about is the IS. If you’ve used a 85mm before especially 1.8 or 1.2, then you know a steady hand is critical for tac sharp images particularly in portraits! The slightest hand shake could ruin what could have been a very sharp image (or eye). Having the added image stabilization will really help to bypass the shakes, especially if you have shaky hands or don’t know proper techniques. I think thats a big selling point!
I think unless you happen to have parkinson's, using 2x your focal range in shutter speed shout eliminate hand shake, no? I could be wrong.. but on my 50mm I try to be at 1/50 or 1/100 at least, preferably at 1/125. For an 85mm lens that would be roughly 1/250 that I would feel comfortable at. But I could be mistaking everything...
I have an R6 and 3 RF lenses, so far. I’ve done 2 firmware updates on the R6 body. I’ve also had to update the lens firmware on each of the lenses once, so far. I checked to see if there is an update for this lens, and I found there isn’t one. However, it could also mean that there just isn’t one yet. It may be that our experience with this generation of Canon R systems, in time, will remind us a little of the update cycles we see for the apps on our phones. I’ve been a Canon user for 50 years, and I’ve never seen anything like the capability and performance of my R6 and these lenses. You might want to wait 2 or 3 months before you trade or sell your 85/f2.0. Canon may have an update coming that will address the video problems you experienced.
Mitch Lally , no it’s non a typo. I bought a Canon Pellix QL in 1970. Other than the spot meter, the camera is completely mechanical. The R system is a bit like a computer system with an attached camera and lens, actually a great camera and lens system. One of the reasons I sold my EF lenses is because they have no firmware to update; so, some future compatibility problem might not be solvable by a camera firmware update alone. Great videos, please keep them coming!
For the issue you’re having, try holding the AF-On button to quickly get back to a normal focusing distance. I experience the same issue with the RF35. It’s only slow in video mode because the camera is trying to make smooth adjustments and not be jerky. But you can override it by holding AF-On.
I don't shoot video. Never. So, for me, the information in this video has been VERY helpful. The quality of the photos, was amazing, especially considering they were shot wide open which, in my experience, softens the image. I'll be shooting this lens for headshots and portraiture in a studio on a tripod, so I'll be shooting at f/7.1 or f/8 for the sharpest possible result. I'll also be shooting from about 6 feet (2 meters) from my subject for headshots and about 10 feet (3 meters) for portraits. So, for me, I think this will be a very useful lens. I'm currently shooting the older f/1.8 EF version and get very good results. But, I'd like to step up my game, as it were, and will likely pick up this lens thanks to your video. Thanks much.
Is there an issue with turning the camera off when you put it down? You’re conserving battery life and my RP zips right on in milliseconds right back to my previous settings, so I have to imagine the R6 would be just as fast, if not faster. I understand that for your work flow it’s a dealbreaker, I just feel like there’s easy ways around it
I have the same issue with long focus throw on original R and rf 35mm 1.8. But pressing AF-on button instead of touch-af makes it much faster for camera to find the focus.
I have similar issues when I am taking photos with birds. Take pic, hold camera down for review, lens adjusts at the close subject, then its slow when I pull camera up to take next pic. In fact with my 800mm on the R7 it would sometimes never come back into focus while half pressing the shutter. Two things solved it. There is an option in the menu called "lens drive when af impossible" that was off. Turning that on forces it to hunt the whole length for focus and corrects the lens getting stuck. For me this works well with turning the preview AF option enabled. The second thing I do to prevent this is when I am pausing to shoot I have one of the buttons programmed to put the camera in sleep mode. This keeps the lens at the same focus point and prevents it from hunting when not in use which also will burn through your battery. It only takes a second or two for the camera to wake up when you push any button so the delay in minimal when it comes time to shoot again.
12:50 3rd work around, switch from video to photo and half press the shutter to focus. It will auto focus really quick. Then switch back to video. Takes a few seconds.
Absolutely yes, for size, weight, sharpness. Stills only, don't use continuous focus, do use focus limit. The 1.2 is obscenely expensive and the size of a garbage can.
Edit* Never mind. You mentioned this already lol. 10:44 you can fix this by setting a custom function on your R6 to disable servo mode temporarily, until you pick it back up again (I do this on my RP), just make sure to re-enable servo AF again when you pick it up! Solves the issue instantly.
Biggest question I have is, when you're not shooting Macro, why do you still have it in full Macro? Why not switch it to the other two distances which will not throw it in the macro mode?
@@traviskraftphotography This. I have this lens and unless I am shooting super close up I always keep the focus switch locked at 0.5m - Infinity, this way the lens never goes into that super macro mode.
I believe you do not have to have the continuous autofocus turned on the R6 to use servo in video. I turned continuous video of after seing a video about this on TH-cam because my lenses were hunting for focus when I wasn't shooting.
@@runefb The video you linked talks about disabling continuous AF for still photos, not for video. And how do you turn on and off continuous AF in video. I just checked the menu under video mode and I don't even see an option for continuous AF. The only option I see that controls the continuous AF is called Movie Servo AF which I think should be set to enabled.
@@danz1833 hmmm... I just did what the guy on the video said and now I do not have the problem with a hunting lens anymore (neither in photo or video modes).
@@danz1833 I checked one more time. When in photo mode you need to hold AF-ON button in to focus in video without continuous autofocus enabled, but I usually use video mode for video with continuous autofocus enabled.
@@runefb What do you mean when you say you shoot video while in photo mode? Anyhow for me I do mostly wildlife videos, so I usually turn the camera off when I'm not shooting which prevents any lens hunting and battery depletion. But yeah, it does take a couple seconds to power the camera back up and get the EVF to display which means I do sometimes miss out on some action shots. And I don't own an 85mm macro, so the lens hunting is not as bad. I was going to buy this lens though, but after this review I'm not so sure.
Nice review! I've recently picked up this lens my self and have used it for a few shoots. I've definitely run into the same eye af issues you have had. For the price, you can't go wrong. Nice photos as well! Love your work!
Am I missing something here, why does the lens continue to try and AF when you put it down, are you referring to video mode only? You can turn off continuous focusing in the menu. So basically only an issue in video, not stills modes, correct?
The focus distance issue described at t=12:xx approx.: sounds like it is a camera feature-related issue that can be addressed with a firmware update, albeit at a future update.
hey thank you for the RAW files. I am thinking about getting the 85mm f2. Also your exposure is really good that I dont have any problems applying presets on lightroom. Thank you
Great photos and video in general, but I wonder why you're not just turning the AF-wheel and help the focus to grab where you want it to be. That's done quick and easy since you're holding the camera in your hands and not e.g. a gimbal. When you bought the lens you knew it's a macro, and all macros have this behavior. It's not a flaw, but you just didn't know it better. But still, great photos and great work in general mate. :)
@@MitchLally I agree there is no way to speed the AF up. You can still get some cool artsy B roll shots but shooting people in video is impossible. I use it mainly for photography though. nice review man. now I'm certain that I didn't miss some weird setting. thanx man.
Hi Mitch!! First of all, thank you for the fantastic videos!! Regarding the autofocus problem, have you tried to change the settings in the advanced menus of the camera? I have an RP and there is a menu (C.Fn II - Autofocus) that allows you to personalize the focus speed. Please, try it and tell us if the problem continues. Thanks again for the video!
@@MitchLally What if you set the switch on the lens from "FULL" to "0.5m-Infinity"? Should focus faster (apologize in advance if explained later as I am only at 12:05, where i see your setting is at "FULL"). Or before you set the camera down, hit the AF lock button.
The R cameras have a setting to prevent that "fatal flaw" and the lens has one too. So I must wonder, why didn't you change the settings of the camera to not focus track when not recording? Alternatively you could also use the focus limiter switch on the lens itself. Which sole purpose is to prevent that slow focus change from very near to far. It's basically a Macro/Not-Macro/I'm-not-sure switch. Why would you choose the latter? English is only my third language, but by "extend back" you mean retract, right? Also, "good to see you guys". Please give me a heads up next time so I can put on some pants.
Hahaha I like your comment. But did you watch the whole video? Because I addressed both of those ‘solutions’ shortly after raising the issue in the video and explained why they don’t solve the problem.
I am a hobby photographer. I have a Canon R100 camera. I mainly shoot flowers, foliage, and clouds photos. I like the 80mm for the bokeh focus distance on a full frame camera. But my R100 is a crop sensor and I need a 50mm lens to get the 1.6 x = 80mm equivalent.
Hello Master Mitch: Please help and give me some advice, The camera I am currently using is Canon EOS R10, The kit lens used with it is (RF-S18-150mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM) My main subject matter is toy photography. The secondary shooting content is street photography or portrait photos. Now I want to buy new lenses, after watching your video, Want to compare between Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM and RF85mm F2 Macro IS STM After making a choice, I would like to ask you to give me some advice on which lens is more suitable for me? Thank you.
Hey, thanks for this video. Can i suggest another video? A comparison between RF 85mm f/2 Macro against EF 85mm f/1.2 L with adaptar on a mirrorless camera? Here in Brazil, an used 85mm EF 1.2L has a price similar to a brand new RF 85mm f/2. Thanks!
Love the video ! I would say when shooting video with the 85mm that issue of focusing can be fixed if you operated the focusing manually ! Otherwise this video is amazing man. Keep it up
I noticed that when you were showing that really slow focus reset you had it switched to FULL range of focus, I would think using a different setting would probably get rid of the problem that you say would stop you from buying it...
Just cus you shoot a 14 minute video doesn't mean people are going to give you all the time to reveal most likely the reason they clicked on it to begin with... Everybody knows the lens is good, get to the point (quickly) and tell us something we may not know, better yet also include a good work around.
I'm really torn between the canon and pretty much the only RF native alternative which is the Samyang 85mm F1.4. I mainly do video and the Samyang has two major limitations for video, firstly no IS and secondly it's minimum focus distance is 1m. Did you time how long the AF takes to go from the .5m stop to infinity? If it takes 13 seconds to do the whole focus range I'm guessing dropping that bottom end 30cm or so should reduce the time by several seconds at least. Great video by the way.
just want to say first off, great video. Kept me wanting to watch more. second, I have a rp and was looking at this lens and really helped answer some questions. I mainly shoot photos, not really video at all. i was looking for a portrait lens and i know the ef 85mm isn't far off in price as of now. great photos and looking to see more of your videos
Do all the RF silver ring lenses 16mm, 50mm, 35mm, 85mm ext have a mechanical front that protrudes out of the camera? I've not experienced that in other brands. Prefer all internal focus
This is an incredible lens. The fatal flaw is not a flaw at all. Use the limiter switch between 0.5-infinity; for the problem you mentioned is not more noticeable than any other longer RF lens. RF85 F2 does have a very long focus ring which tremendously helps to properly focus using manual focusing.
Cool video Mitch. I got the 85mm to go on my R6 this morning and must say I'm pleased so far. I'm not a pro shooter so the slow auto-focus doesn't bother me too much to be honest but I can see where you're coming from.
I've jumped for the Canon as I only shoot stills so don't care about video. The Samyang has too many quality issues listening to others and a yellow colour cast along with a curved plain of focus.
I have/had both (as well as several comparable lenses like the EF 100mm f/2.8L IS Macro, EF 85mm f/1.8, EF 100mm f/2, Lawoa 100mm f/2 STF, Sigma 105mm f/1.4...) and not noticed so much of a colour difference that it can't be fixed in post; in fact for portraits at least the extra warmth of the Samyang makes it a lot nicer. The curved focus is also equal on both, this is no flatter. As for quality, the Samyang-at least my copy-is way better than this RF. The build tolerances are very clearly a lot tighter, it's fully sealed, etc. This RF is one of the cheapest, loosest first-party autofocus lenses I've ever owned, even going right back to the first EF lenses of the late 80s. I used it for just a couple of product shoots-indoors!-and it's already filled with dust and fogged. Suffice to say the Samyang will keep holding on as my portable portrait option until there's a Canon or Sigma f/1.4 native mount that isn't as heavy as the RF 85mm f/1.2, and the EF 100mm f/2.8L will carry on as my main product & macro option, while the RF 85 has already been traded in...
@@sebastianmatthews1663 A shame. My copy exhibits none of the problems you describe with yours. I really have no complaints and the issues you are having are the first I've heard these sort of problems with this lens. I've seen several reviews by respected togs and none have found similar issues to you as far as I'm aware. If the Samyang works for you then I understand you sticking with it. Are you using EF to RF converter by any chance?
Mitch is 85mm great choice for portraits i have Canon 50mm 1.8f and i watch your videos about 85mm looks realy amazing can you tell me more about this lens please? :) x
I don’t think this is this lens specifically. I’ve had the 85 1.2 and 50 1.2 do something similar to this getting stuck at either minimum or infinity once in a while on both the R5 and the R6
I'm stuck between the Canon and Samyang tbh and as I don't shoot video the drawbacks of the Canon are of no concern. If the Canon were f1.8 it would be game over but f2 is making me think long and hard.
AMAZING review. I am wondering - does the focus 1.5 to infinity mean that when shwitched off the macro mode won't work? Would this solve the problem with the focus speed? ALso, the raw files aren't available any more - I don't suppose these can still be found somewhere? Thanks again!
Looking forward to the day to purchase 85mm. I very much enjoyed your vid...informative with real world pro use...thanks for the insight and your thoughts on this affordable lens...awesome! As always, ( for the first time ) keep up the good work and keep'em flying.
I was bummed when I got to the part where you wouldn't be keeping it for video. As someone who uses manual focus 99% of the time for "important" things (like weddings), this is added to my near-future purchases. Thanks!
Damn I had just bought the 85mm 1.8. Def gonna return it and grab this instead. For RF glass it’s pretty cheap. Need to get the new nifty fifty when it comes out as well.
Got the lens today. Used it for an hour. Agree with Mitch. Getting into or out of macro to focus on something else...is way too long for video. Way slower than the 35mm 1.8 stm. Tried turning off the servo, but it doesn’t help. I’ll try the focus limiter tmo. I’ll used for another couple of days, but I’m probably gonna return it. Too bad given the attractive price. I wanted to use it with the C70 as well.
Thank you! I actually have the same problem with the rf 35mm 1.8 In the beginning you said, that the 35mm 1.8 is faster when it comes to auto focus. But I think the 35mm is already a very slow lens...
Were all the pics edited or raw files? I think everyone here wants see before and after to see the ability of the lense/camera. So please do before and after photos if you can. It’s very necessary especially when you make the comparison videos
Yes mate the minimum focus distance lock is a pain on the RF 35mm f1.8 as well, I just push on the barrel and it retracts more quickly, probably not good for the lens, but hey no qualms. Cheers for the clip, good deal!
@@MitchLally oh man that will happen for me soon no doubt, but I have been in tight spots for time and simply had to have the lens retract right now… so yeah forcing it is for sure not cool, but it’s a tool and it needs to work!
I can explain mathematically why the focus hunt is/seems faster on normal and wide angle lenses and a short tele, considering all those 3 lenses use the same grade of focus motor (L series surely have faster focus motors)
I own this lens and I think it’s crazy underrated. It’s pretty sharp and the contrast is excellent. I like it so much that I have zero desire to upgrade to the RF 1.2. The fact that this is also a micro lens just makes it that much cooler. Easily my favorite lens in my bag.
How are you liking it a year later? I'm trying to decide on a used one of these Canon 85mm f2's or get a used or new Rokinon/Samyang 85mm f1.4
Hey what is it like in low light? I’m worried about grain! Thanks!
@@charl9612 It's F2. If you're super worried about ISO, consider the sigma art 85. It's a full stop faster so you will be at half the ISO as this lens.
Can you explain micro vs macro?
@@royaltykidstv that's the same meaning in camera world.. usually micro terms used by nikon, macro by canon
Hey, great videos as always Mitch! I just got this lens and absolutely love it!. I used the 85mm EF 1.2 for years and loved it. Now that I have switched over to the mirrorless system (R6 mkii) I have really started to trim a lot weight from my bag and also started shooting some video. So far this lens is filling the 85mm gap at a fraction of the price and more importantly a fraction of the weight. I know this video is old but I wanted to address the slow focus from macro to infinity. As a short cut I set the AF point button to Metering/ AF start and it focuses from macro to infinity in less than 3 seconds. If you let it focus on its own, yes, it takes forever but with this short cut you can speed it up a whole lot. I hope this help someone who's on the fence with this lens. I also ditched my 100mm 2.8 macro and I am just using this for macro now. Its not as sharp as the 100, but man its very close.
I think one of the most important aspect of this lens that reviewers don’t go more in depth about is the IS. If you’ve used a 85mm before especially 1.8 or 1.2, then you know a steady hand is critical for tac sharp images particularly in portraits! The slightest hand shake could ruin what could have been a very sharp image (or eye). Having the added image stabilization will really help to bypass the shakes, especially if you have shaky hands or don’t know proper techniques. I think thats a big selling point!
Good point!
I think unless you happen to have parkinson's, using 2x your focal range in shutter speed shout eliminate hand shake, no? I could be wrong.. but on my 50mm I try to be at 1/50 or 1/100 at least, preferably at 1/125. For an 85mm lens that would be roughly 1/250 that I would feel comfortable at. But I could be mistaking everything...
And the IBIS in R6
I mean the R5 and R6 have pretty effective ibis in them already.
@@davidrodgers5534 Thats true, but others might not have the r5 or 6 so this lens would help them a lot
Even though I was there filming!!! What great work you do my friend. Blesssssgo! Killer photos
Thanks Carlo! You the man g
The lens can be quickly switched to manual focus by sliding the button on its surface and thus no longer seeks its focus.
That’s what I was thinking
This. I keep hearing people mentioning the autofocus. Have we forgotten you can usually switch off the autofocus on the lenses??
I have an R6 and 3 RF lenses, so far. I’ve done 2 firmware updates on the R6 body. I’ve also had to update the lens firmware on each of the lenses once, so far. I checked to see if there is an update for this lens, and I found there isn’t one. However, it could also mean that there just isn’t one yet. It may be that our experience with this generation of Canon R systems, in time, will remind us a little of the update cycles we see for the apps on our phones. I’ve been a Canon user for 50 years, and I’ve never seen anything like the capability and performance of my R6 and these lenses. You might want to wait 2 or 3 months before you trade or sell your 85/f2.0. Canon may have an update coming that will address the video problems you experienced.
I hope so! 50 years is impressive!! I hope thats not a typo! 🙂
Mitch Lally , no it’s non a typo. I bought a Canon Pellix QL in 1970. Other than the spot meter, the camera is completely mechanical. The R system is a bit like a computer system with an attached camera and lens, actually a great camera and lens system. One of the reasons I sold my EF lenses is because they have no firmware to update; so, some future compatibility problem might not be solvable by a camera firmware update alone. Great videos, please keep them coming!
Did this ever get solved?
For the issue you’re having, try holding the AF-On button to quickly get back to a normal focusing distance. I experience the same issue with the RF35. It’s only slow in video mode because the camera is trying to make smooth adjustments and not be jerky. But you can override it by holding AF-On.
the best tip yet and predominantly overcomes the issue, thank you
Okay I’ll try this - only this is I have the af on button assigned to a custom function in video...
@@MitchLally any luck with this helping?
I don't shoot video. Never. So, for me, the information in this video has been VERY helpful. The quality of the photos, was amazing, especially considering they were shot wide open which, in my experience, softens the image. I'll be shooting this lens for headshots and portraiture in a studio on a tripod, so I'll be shooting at f/7.1 or f/8 for the sharpest possible result. I'll also be shooting from about 6 feet (2 meters) from my subject for headshots and about 10 feet (3 meters) for portraits. So, for me, I think this will be a very useful lens. I'm currently shooting the older f/1.8 EF version and get very good results. But, I'd like to step up my game, as it were, and will likely pick up this lens thanks to your video. Thanks much.
I really love your use of angles and background colors that mirror the model’s pants and top.
Thank you so much!!
Is there an issue with turning the camera off when you put it down? You’re conserving battery life and my RP zips right on in milliseconds right back to my previous settings, so I have to imagine the R6 would be just as fast, if not faster. I understand that for your work flow it’s a dealbreaker, I just feel like there’s easy ways around it
I completely agree... he can even switch it to manual on/off on the lens barrel (that wouldn't move it to macro accidently).
Totally nitpicking.
I have the same issue with long focus throw on original R and rf 35mm 1.8. But pressing AF-on button instead of touch-af makes it much faster for camera to find the focus.
I have similar issues when I am taking photos with birds. Take pic, hold camera down for review, lens adjusts at the close subject, then its slow when I pull camera up to take next pic. In fact with my 800mm on the R7 it would sometimes never come back into focus while half pressing the shutter. Two things solved it. There is an option in the menu called "lens drive when af impossible" that was off. Turning that on forces it to hunt the whole length for focus and corrects the lens getting stuck. For me this works well with turning the preview AF option enabled. The second thing I do to prevent this is when I am pausing to shoot I have one of the buttons programmed to put the camera in sleep mode. This keeps the lens at the same focus point and prevents it from hunting when not in use which also will burn through your battery. It only takes a second or two for the camera to wake up when you push any button so the delay in minimal when it comes time to shoot again.
12:50 3rd work around, switch from video to photo and half press the shutter to focus. It will auto focus really quick. Then switch back to video. Takes a few seconds.
Absolutely yes, for size, weight, sharpness. Stills only, don't use continuous focus, do use focus limit.
The 1.2 is obscenely expensive and the size of a garbage can.
Edit* Never mind. You mentioned this already lol.
10:44 you can fix this by setting a custom function on your R6 to disable servo mode temporarily, until you pick it back up again (I do this on my RP), just make sure to re-enable servo AF again when you pick it up! Solves the issue instantly.
Biggest question I have is, when you're not shooting Macro, why do you still have it in full Macro? Why not switch it to the other two distances which will not throw it in the macro mode?
@@traviskraftphotography This. I have this lens and unless I am shooting super close up I always keep the focus switch locked at 0.5m - Infinity, this way the lens never goes into that super macro mode.
@@norseatheart1086 yep!
I was in a huge toss up between this and the samyang 85 1.4 and I went with the samyang. This was a great review.
Thanks!!
How do you like the Samsung so far?
Samyang**
Is that the Samyang EF or RF? AF or MF?
Amazing vid, detailed and informative. I’m picking mine up tomorrow, this helped a lot. I will mostly use it for Pics
10:54 just turn off the macro distance by the switch no?
I love this lens, I carry it with my 35.
RF 85mm F2 vs RF Samyung 85mm F1.4!!!
Okeh 😌
vs. old EF 85 1.8
Samyang 85mm f1.4 vs rf 85mm f1.2! 🙏🏻
Awesome shots! Love these edits as well subtle but still catching your eye
Cheers Donald!
I searched the 85mm f2 and your page popped up and your work is beautiful.
love your editing, they look SO clean
There is a focus limiter switch if you don't want it to go in macro mode
Still doesn’t solve the problem.
@@MitchLally whit already extended lens or every time?
I believe you do not have to have the continuous autofocus turned on the R6 to use servo in video. I turned continuous video of after seing a video about this on TH-cam because my lenses were hunting for focus when I wasn't shooting.
This is the video I watched: th-cam.com/video/UwMM4F3jzNY/w-d-xo.html
@@runefb The video you linked talks about disabling continuous AF for still photos, not for video. And how do you turn on and off continuous AF in video. I just checked the menu under video mode and I don't even see an option for continuous AF. The only option I see that controls the continuous AF is called Movie Servo AF which I think should be set to enabled.
@@danz1833 hmmm... I just did what the guy on the video said and now I do not have the problem with a hunting lens anymore (neither in photo or video modes).
@@danz1833 I checked one more time. When in photo mode you need to hold AF-ON button in to focus in video without continuous autofocus enabled, but I usually use video mode for video with continuous autofocus enabled.
@@runefb What do you mean when you say you shoot video while in photo mode? Anyhow for me I do mostly wildlife videos, so I usually turn the camera off when I'm not shooting which prevents any lens hunting and battery depletion. But yeah, it does take a couple seconds to power the camera back up and get the EVF to display which means I do sometimes miss out on some action shots. And I don't own an 85mm macro, so the lens hunting is not as bad. I was going to buy this lens though, but after this review I'm not so sure.
Nice review! I've recently picked up this lens my self and have used it for a few shoots. I've definitely run into the same eye af issues you have had. For the price, you can't go wrong. Nice photos as well! Love your work!
Yeah it’s amazing for the price!!
Thanks for watching :)
just get a viltrox RF 85 1.8
Crazy good photos, and that green bush on the cream wall OMG so good and the colour strikes between her outfit and the wall and bush, superb!!
Thanks Matt! The 85 is so good for portraits!
Watched all your videos. This is the first video that got me to subscribe. Love your style and Cat looks stunning in this one.
Can I ask which of your presets you used to edit these (gorgeous) images, Mitch? (Thx!)
Am I missing something here, why does the lens continue to try and AF when you put it down, are you referring to video mode only? You can turn off continuous focusing in the menu. So basically only an issue in video, not stills modes, correct?
The focus distance issue described at t=12:xx approx.: sounds like it is a camera feature-related issue that can be addressed with a firmware update, albeit at a future update.
This seems like a problem likely to be fixed with firmware.
Which mode is your focus in?
- Varies with rotation speed
Or
- Linked to rotation degree
hey thank you for the RAW files. I am thinking about getting the 85mm f2. Also your exposure is really good that I dont have any problems applying presets on lightroom. Thank you
Hi fam Mitch Lally the lens that you used is 85mm f/2 IS STM Macro RF Lens ?
Great photos and video in general, but I wonder why you're not just turning the AF-wheel and help the focus to grab where you want it to be. That's done quick and easy since you're holding the camera in your hands and not e.g. a gimbal.
When you bought the lens you knew it's a macro, and all macros have this behavior. It's not a flaw, but you just didn't know it better.
But still, great photos and great work in general mate. :)
To fix your issue without having to turn off continuous af is to set the macro mode to the middle option instead of "FULL"
Have you tried the lens? This still doesn’t fix the problem. It still takes 7-8 seconds to return from 0.5 metres (minimum focus in the limit mode).
Nah but I do have the RF 35mm 1.8 macro and the EF 100mm 2.8L macro and I had that same issue so I would assume the RF 85 f2 would be the same
I’ve tried both and trust me man this is a whole different level of pace 🐌 even with the limit mode and video af speed at max
@@MitchLally I agree there is no way to speed the AF up. You can still get some cool artsy B roll shots but shooting people in video is impossible. I use it mainly for photography though. nice review man. now I'm certain that I didn't miss some weird setting. thanx man.
Can you tell me the preset are you used to edit this photo please???
Damn! These shots were so good!!
What White balance setting are you using on your R6? For some reason my skin tones on my r6 are coming out very orange and warm.
I'm getting the Samyang 85mm 1.4 AF for RF as soon as my r6 order comes in! Great reviews on it. Hopefully you'll test it out soon!
Do you like the Samyang? I cant really decide between the Samyang 1.4 and the canon 2.0 macro.
@@NOM4D20 same^^
Hi Mitch!! First of all, thank you for the fantastic videos!! Regarding the autofocus problem, have you tried to change the settings in the advanced menus of the camera? I have an RP and there is a menu (C.Fn II - Autofocus) that allows you to personalize the focus speed. Please, try it and tell us if the problem continues. Thanks again for the video!
I wish I could reply with photos to prove, but yes I had it set to the maximum speed during the recording of this video!!
@@MitchLally What if you set the switch on the lens from "FULL" to "0.5m-Infinity"? Should focus faster (apologize in advance if explained later as I am only at 12:05, where i see your setting is at "FULL"). Or before you set the camera down, hit the AF lock button.
Thank you for this info, really appreciated !
So your problem on this lens only is for the video focus but on the photo you can recommend it right?
The R cameras have a setting to prevent that "fatal flaw" and the lens has one too. So I must wonder, why didn't you change the settings of the camera to not focus track when not recording? Alternatively you could also use the focus limiter switch on the lens itself. Which sole purpose is to prevent that slow focus change from very near to far. It's basically a Macro/Not-Macro/I'm-not-sure switch. Why would you choose the latter?
English is only my third language, but by "extend back" you mean retract, right?
Also, "good to see you guys". Please give me a heads up next time so I can put on some pants.
Hahaha I like your comment. But did you watch the whole video? Because I addressed both of those ‘solutions’ shortly after raising the issue in the video and explained why they don’t solve the problem.
I own this lens few days, made yesterday photosession and this lens is fantastic i don,t play video for photo is very good
I am a hobby photographer. I have a Canon R100 camera. I mainly shoot flowers, foliage, and clouds photos. I like the 80mm for the bokeh focus distance on a full frame camera. But my R100 is a crop sensor and I need a 50mm lens to get the 1.6 x = 80mm equivalent.
Yes Cat is back !!!!🤩
Best Lens!!! Do we need to use any specific filters with this lens?
Hello Master Mitch:
Please help and give me some advice,
The camera I am currently using is Canon EOS R10,
The kit lens used with it is (RF-S18-150mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM)
My main subject matter is toy photography.
The secondary shooting content is street photography or portrait photos.
Now I want to buy new lenses, after watching your video,
Want to compare between Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM and RF85mm F2 Macro IS STM
After making a choice, I would like to ask you to give me some advice on which lens is more suitable for me? Thank you.
Hey, thanks for this video. Can i suggest another video? A comparison between RF 85mm f/2 Macro against EF 85mm f/1.2 L with adaptar on a mirrorless camera? Here in Brazil, an used 85mm EF 1.2L has a price similar to a brand new RF 85mm f/2. Thanks!
Do you suggest RF 50mm F1.2/F1.4 over this lens for photography and videography?
Love the video ! I would say when shooting video with the 85mm that issue of focusing can be fixed if you operated the focusing manually ! Otherwise this video is amazing man. Keep it up
I noticed that when you were showing that really slow focus reset you had it switched to FULL range of focus, I would think using a different setting would probably get rid of the problem that you say would stop you from buying it...
I wish people would watch the whole video before commenting 😂
Just cus you shoot a 14 minute video doesn't mean people are going to give you all the time to reveal most likely the reason they clicked on it to begin with... Everybody knows the lens is good, get to the point (quickly) and tell us something we may not know, better yet also include a good work around.
I'm really torn between the canon and pretty much the only RF native alternative which is the Samyang 85mm F1.4. I mainly do video and the Samyang has two major limitations for video, firstly no IS and secondly it's minimum focus distance is 1m. Did you time how long the AF takes to go from the .5m stop to infinity? If it takes 13 seconds to do the whole focus range I'm guessing dropping that bottom end 30cm or so should reduce the time by several seconds at least. Great video by the way.
I’m sure flipping the switch to manual on the side of the lens once you sot it down will prevent that issue
just want to say first off, great video. Kept me wanting to watch more. second, I have a rp and was looking at this lens and really helped answer some questions. I mainly shoot photos, not really video at all. i was looking for a portrait lens and i know the ef 85mm isn't far off in price as of now. great photos and looking to see more of your videos
Thanks for watching Thomas. Glad to help :)
Would I be able to use this camera with a APS-C sensor size ?? Or does it have to be full frame camera ?? Does a APS-C sensor lower the quality
It'll make it into a 137mm
There is a choice of not having the lens focusing at the macro distances so wouldn't that eliminate your one fatal flaw?
I addressed this in the video - it doesn’t fix it.
Do all the RF silver ring lenses 16mm, 50mm, 35mm, 85mm ext have a mechanical front that protrudes out of the camera? I've not experienced that in other brands. Prefer all internal focus
I have a 50 mm I’m trying to decide on this lens or a 35 mm this was helpful
I am using this lense since three month ago, it's veeery sharp also the focus in image is so speed, for image i highly recomended it.
I have this same issue with the 35mm and I’m so sick of it 😂 getting the 85mm but strictly for photos
Just bought your presets. I love them. I also bought the 35mm 1.8 after your vid and am considering this one too. I just recently got the r6ii
This is an incredible lens. The fatal flaw is not a flaw at all. Use the limiter switch between 0.5-infinity; for the problem you mentioned is not more noticeable than any other longer RF lens. RF85 F2 does have a very long focus ring which tremendously helps to properly focus using manual focusing.
Sounds like you didn’t watch the whole video 😂 the limiter switch doesn’t fix the problem unfortunately.
@@MitchLally I did watch it before I made my comment. I still would not call that a fatal flaw.
Well it was for me as a working professional - and people watch my videos for my opinion. If you don't agree that's fine.
This lens is crazy sharp, although I have not used it alot when I do, it produces sharp images even on landscapes
Cool video Mitch. I got the 85mm to go on my R6 this morning and must say I'm pleased so far. I'm not a pro shooter so the slow auto-focus doesn't bother me too much to be honest but I can see where you're coming from.
Hope you enjoy it man!
@@MitchLally Thanks Mitch. It's video's like yours which help the learning process.
Appreciate that Colin!
Would you say it is better in terms of focus than the EF 85mm 1.8?
Love your edits and how you graded the video to match! I am trying to look into more faded and colour restricted edits myself!
I've jumped for the Canon as I only shoot stills so don't care about video. The Samyang has too many quality issues listening to others and a yellow colour cast along with a curved plain of focus.
I have/had both (as well as several comparable lenses like the EF 100mm f/2.8L IS Macro, EF 85mm f/1.8, EF 100mm f/2, Lawoa 100mm f/2 STF, Sigma 105mm f/1.4...) and not noticed so much of a colour difference that it can't be fixed in post; in fact for portraits at least the extra warmth of the Samyang makes it a lot nicer. The curved focus is also equal on both, this is no flatter. As for quality, the Samyang-at least my copy-is way better than this RF. The build tolerances are very clearly a lot tighter, it's fully sealed, etc. This RF is one of the cheapest, loosest first-party autofocus lenses I've ever owned, even going right back to the first EF lenses of the late 80s. I used it for just a couple of product shoots-indoors!-and it's already filled with dust and fogged. Suffice to say the Samyang will keep holding on as my portable portrait option until there's a Canon or Sigma f/1.4 native mount that isn't as heavy as the RF 85mm f/1.2, and the EF 100mm f/2.8L will carry on as my main product & macro option, while the RF 85 has already been traded in...
@@sebastianmatthews1663 A shame. My copy exhibits none of the problems you describe with yours. I really have no complaints and the issues you are having are the first I've heard these sort of problems with this lens. I've seen several reviews by respected togs and none have found similar issues to you as far as I'm aware. If the Samyang works for you then I understand you sticking with it. Are you using EF to RF converter by any chance?
I just got this lens recently and I love it
Glad to hear!
Bro which camera was used to capture? ❤
Mey Mitch, great video! Did you try limiting the AF range so it doesn‘t go into macro range? That might help with your issue.
Yep and mentioned it in the video
I got the 50mm 1.2 and 70-200 2.8 I really don't use an 85 for my work but it would be fun to try it.
Mitch is 85mm great choice for portraits i have Canon 50mm 1.8f and i watch your videos about 85mm looks realy amazing can you tell me more about this lens please? :) x
For photos only, do you think it’s worth it? Or would you recommend spending a couple hundred more on the sigma EF 85 1.4?
Carlo with the filming 🔥🔥 killed it again bruv
Colors on point as always
I don’t think this is this lens specifically. I’ve had the 85 1.2 and 50 1.2 do something similar to this getting stuck at either minimum or infinity once in a while on both the R5 and the R6
I’ve had the same problem with the 35 1.8 too
I'm stuck between the Canon and Samyang tbh and as I don't shoot video the drawbacks of the Canon are of no concern. If the Canon were f1.8 it would be game over but f2 is making me think long and hard.
Love the RF 85mm. Now bring on the much rumoured RF 35mm f1.2!
i could watch your videos all day...so much value, wish i found your channel earlier
Hey Mitch, nice and informational video :-). Did you check out the Samyang AF 85mm F/1.4 RF for a portrait lens?
I wanted to know what camera picture profile did you use?
AMAZING review. I am wondering - does the focus 1.5 to infinity mean that when shwitched off the macro mode won't work? Would this solve the problem with the focus speed? ALso, the raw files aren't available any more - I don't suppose these can still be found somewhere? Thanks again!
Switching the close focus range off gives a massive boost to the focus speed. This is a criminally underrated lens.
Looking forward to the day to purchase 85mm. I very much enjoyed your vid...informative with real world pro use...thanks for the insight and your thoughts on this affordable lens...awesome!
As always, ( for the first time ) keep up the good work and keep'em flying.
I was bummed when I got to the part where you wouldn't be keeping it for video. As someone who uses manual focus 99% of the time for "important" things (like weddings), this is added to my near-future purchases. Thanks!
It renders really nice.
Damn I had just bought the 85mm 1.8. Def gonna return it and grab this instead. For RF glass it’s pretty cheap. Need to get the new nifty fifty when it comes out as well.
It is. Nifty fifty is on my list too.
Hi, this lens its compatible with a canon EOS T6 with an adapter? thanks
my fave focal length the 85mm, nice vid.
Got the lens today. Used it for an hour. Agree with Mitch. Getting into or out of macro to focus on something else...is way too long for video. Way slower than the 35mm 1.8 stm.
Tried turning off the servo, but it doesn’t help. I’ll try the focus limiter tmo. I’ll used for another couple of days, but I’m probably gonna return it.
Too bad given the attractive price. I wanted to use it with the C70 as well.
I own it. It’s amazingly good for the price. I haven’t been disappointed yet with my portraits.
Sigma 85 f1.4 or canon rf f2?
Thank you! I actually have the same problem with the rf 35mm 1.8
In the beginning you said, that the 35mm 1.8 is faster when it comes to auto focus. But I think the 35mm is already a very slow lens...
Tell me plz. What lens is better for bw dramatic portrait:
Canon RF 85mm 2.0 is stm
Viltrox 85mm 1.8
Sigma ART 85mm 1.8
Yongnuo YN85mm F1.8R DF DSM
Were all the pics edited or raw files? I think everyone here wants see before and after to see the ability of the lense/camera. So please do before and after photos if you can. It’s very necessary especially when you make the comparison videos
raw files link don't work, can you please update the link?? would be so helpful...
Awesome photo shoot Mitch! What's the models @? I bought your presets just because of this video lol
Thanks mate! Details are in the description :)
Yes mate the minimum focus distance lock is a pain on the RF 35mm f1.8 as well, I just push on the barrel and it retracts more quickly, probably not good for the lens, but hey no qualms. Cheers for the clip, good deal!
I did this with my 35mm and the camera locked up and switched off :/
@@MitchLally oh man that will happen for me soon no doubt, but I have been in tight spots for time and simply had to have the lens retract right now… so yeah forcing it is for sure not cool, but it’s a tool and it needs to work!
Love this shoot bro. Beast with that natural lighting
Thanks my bro! Appreciate you man
I can explain mathematically why the focus hunt is/seems faster on normal and wide angle lenses and a short tele, considering all those 3 lenses use the same grade of focus motor (L series surely have faster focus motors)