Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Lens (Still Applicable)
Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM lens for hair and fashion photography with Vernon Chalmers. Explore portrait sharpness, background blur and creative styling techniques.
One of my older all-time 'short' lens favourites for more than 10 years. This lens was part of the Canon EF-lens line-up with the previous generation Canon EOS DSLRs - for both Full-Frame and APS-C bodies.
Super sharp and a bit 'narrower' than the Canon EOS EF 50mm f/1.8 USM II lens (nifty-fifty) of the same era. Lightweight, very sharp, with a good bokeh for portraits and close-up flowers (non-macro). No Image Stabilization, but that has never bother me for the photography I do with this kens.
I purchased this consumer lens for professional / commercial photography at +- 1/3 of the price of the L-series 85mm lens. With the correct EF-to-RF converter this lens should also be compatible on many newer Canon EOS R bodies.
This lens will probably not be available on the new market anymore, but its worth the consideration as a used option for portraits and reasonably close-up small subjects (although standing back will provide a wider and sharp perspective at various apertures - depending on subject size and / or creative objective.
I have used this lens with / without flash for a hair fashion show a few years ago for a couple of shoots. With images published throughout various mediums. At the same time I carried a Full-Frame Canon paired with the Canon EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM lens for group and other wider-angle promotional group shots. I still use the EF 24-70mm lens quite frequently as well .
Note: All models where going through their fast-walking catwalk routines - with busy backgrounds. I had the opportunity to follow them closely during this particular show. The 'short' lens (with flash) handled the action with ease.
Images: Copyright Vernon Chalmers for Partners Hair Design
Canon Equipment / Exposure
- Body: Canon EOS 70D (APS-C)
- Lens: Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM (Full-Frame)
- Flash: Canon Speedlite 430EX III-RT
- Exposure: Various (ISO / Aperture / Shutter Speed)
Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Lens for Hair Fashion Copyright Vernon Chalmers
Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Lens for Hair Fashion Copyright Vernon Chalmers
Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Lens for Hair Fashion Copyright Vernon Chalmers
Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Lens for Hair Fashion Copyright Vernon Chalmers
Fashion Photography with an 85mm Lens
"Using an 85mm lens for fashion photography is a fantastic choice! Here are some reasons why it’s so popular and tips on how to make the most of it:
Why the 85mm Lens?
- Flattering Perspective: The 85mm focal length provides a natural and flattering perspective for portraits, avoiding the distortion that wider lenses can introduce 1.
- Beautiful Bokeh: With a wide aperture (like f/1.4 or f/1.8), the 85mm lens creates a shallow depth of field, producing a creamy, blurred background that makes your subject stand out 2.
- Versatility: It’s great for both close-up shots and full-body portraits, making it versatile for various fashion photography needs 1.
Tips for Using an 85mm Lens in Fashion Photography
- Use Wide Apertures: To achieve that dreamy bokeh effect, shoot with a wide aperture. This helps isolate your subject from the background 1.
- Maintain Distance: Keep a comfortable distance from your model. This lens works best when you’re a few meters away, allowing you to capture detailed shots without invading personal space 2.
- Focus on Details: The sharpness of an 85mm lens is perfect for highlighting intricate details in clothing and accessories 2.
- Experiment with Angles: Try different angles and compositions to add variety to your shots. The 85mm lens is forgiving and helps maintain a natural look 1.
Examples of Use
- Editorial Shoots: Perfect for capturing the essence of fashion in a controlled environment.
- Outdoor Fashion: Great for taking advantage of natural light and beautiful backgrounds while keeping the focus on the model 2." (Source: Microsoft Copilot)
Canon Photography Training Milnerton Woodbridge Island | Kirstenbosch Garden
