Canon RF 85mm F1.4L VCM lens 

A portrait classic, reinvented

With a flattering perspective, fast f/1.4 aperture and L-series optics, the RF 85MM F1.4L VCM is built for distinctive portrait photography. Smooth VCM focusing, an Iris Ring and minimal focus breathing make it a filmmaker’s dream too.

The RF 85MM F1.4L VCM is a short telephoto lens in the growing range of F1.4 VCM hybrid prime lenses designed to satisfy the converging video and stills market. It shares a unified design, weight distribution and colour balance with the rest of the lineup, allowing it to be used interchangeably with ease. It also fills a gap in Canon’s popular 85mm portrait prime lens range, sitting between the enthusiast RF 85mm F2 MACRO IS STM and the professional RF 85mm F1.2L USM (DS) lenses. Although the maximum aperture of the RF 85mm F1.2L USM (DS) lenses is a half-stop faster, the RF 85MM F1.4L VCM is almost half the size and weight. Compared to the EF 85mm f/1.4L IS USM, it delivers a significant leap in performance, handling and portability.

Features and benefits

Every portrait becomes a masterpiece

A flattering 85mm focal length and uncompromising optical quality make the RF 85MM F1.4L VCM ideal for portraiture. Aspherical and UD elements plus advanced coatings ensure crisp portraits and soft backdrops.

Exceptional artistic freedom, even in low light

Enjoy creative depth-of-field control and brilliant low-light performance for stills and video, thanks to an ultra-wide f/1.4 maximum aperture and cinematic 11-blade iris.

Lightweight design with effortless handling

Work instinctively with a lens that shares the uniform design of the F1.4 hybrid prime range. At around half the size and weight of the RF 85mm F1.2L USM, the RF 85MM F1.4L VCM is built for shooting on the move.

Focus on emotion with rapid precision

Bring spontaneous moments into sharp relief thanks to high-speed VCM¹ AF technology. The powerful AF actuator ensures controlled video focus pulls, with minimal focus breathing for a natural look.

Fluid control for hybrid artistry in stills and video

Adapt the lens to suit your shooting style, with a customisable Lens Control Ring and Lens Function Button. An Iris Ring² offers smooth aperture control for video, as well as stills with selected cameras.

Professional build and reliability

Keep on shooting when the conditions turn against you, thanks to L-series construction with an oil-repellent fluorine coating and well-placed weather seals to protect against dust and moisture³.

Technology Explained

Iris Ring

Use the Iris Ring when shooting video for manual aperture control and enjoy a smoother, silent operation between stops.

VCM (Voice Coil Motor)

Because of the lens’ larger internal elements a VCM can move them faster, allowing spontaneous moments to be captured and smooth focus transitions to be achieved when filming.

Lens Function Button (AF Stop Button)

The customisable Lens Function Button works by default as an AF stop button which temporarily pauses AF during Servo AF.