Mark Ellington
85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens for Canon Cameras
Introduction
The 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens for Canon EOS Cameras, manufactured by JINTU, falls under the category of prime lenses designed specifically for portrait photography. This lens is compatible with a wide range of Canon EOS models, making it a versatile choice for both amateur and professional photographers alike. With its large aperture and exceptional build quality, it aims to deliver stunning portraits with beautiful background bokeh.
Product Overview
This lens features a strong metal body construction and incorporates a hybrid aspherical element to ensure exceptional image clarity and minimal distortion, critical for portrait photography. Its manual focus and aperture control allow photographers to have complete command over their shots, although it does present a learning curve for those accustomed to autofocus systems.
Design & Aesthetics
The 85mm f1.8 lens boasts a sleek black finish, typical of professional-grade lenses. Its robust metal body not only enhances durability but also gives it a premium feel. The design is straightforward, with a smooth focus ring that operates fluidly for precise adjustments. The absence of electronic contacts means that the lens is purely manual, which adds a vintage charm to its operation but may not appeal to everyone.
Key Features & Specifications
- Focal Length: 85mm
- Maximum Aperture: f/1.8
- Lens Type: Prime, Manual Focus
- Material: Metal Body Construction
- Compatibility: Canon EOS Rebel T8i/T7i/T7/T6i/T5/T3i/T3/T2i/XSi/XS/SL3/SL2/T100/5D Mark IV/6D II/7D 90D/80D/70D/60D/50D/650D/600D/750D/700D/550D/7D II
- Warranty: 2 Years
- Price: $95.99
Usage Experience
During testing, this lens excelled in various scenarios, notably in portrait and low-light photography. Its f/1.8 aperture allowed for beautiful separation of subjects from their backgrounds, creating stunning bokeh effects that are highly desirable in portrait work. The manual focus mechanism, while challenging initially, provided a strong sense of control over composition, especially when capturing intricate details in subjects. In landscape photography, the lens also performed admirably, delivering sharp images with minimal distortion.
However, it is essential to note that the lack of electronic contacts means the camera does not recognize the lens, which can be a drawback for those who prefer autofocus. This lens is best suited for photographers who appreciate the art of manual focusing and want to experiment creatively with depth of field.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional image quality with sharpness and minimal distortion.
- Beautiful bokeh effects due to the wide f/1.8 aperture.
- Durable metal construction that feels premium.
- Great value for money at $95.99.
Cons:
- Manual focus only, which may not suit every photographer.
- No electronic contacts, meaning camera cannot auto-detect the lens.
- Learning curve associated with manual focusing and aperture control.
Conclusion
Overall, the 85mm f1.8 Portrait Lens for Canon EOS Cameras by JINTU is an excellent choice for photographers looking for a budget-friendly option that does not compromise on image quality. Its robust build and stunning optical performance make it a worthwhile addition to any Canon user’s kit, especially for those who appreciate the craft of manual photography. However, the manual focus mechanism may not be everyone’s cup of tea, and potential buyers should consider their comfort level with this type of lens before making a purchase. If you are willing to embrace the challenges of manual focusing, this lens can truly enhance your portrait photography experience.
