Canon reportedly developing new Canon RF 85mm f/1.8 Macro lens

Canon reportedly developing new Canon RF 85mm f/1.8 Macro lens
(Image credit: Canon News)

Since Canon launched its mirrorless RF mount in 2018, it's gone on to release a number of exquisitely designed lenses that have impressed photographers around the world. The only problem with Canon RF lenses? The fact that you might need to take out a second mortgage just to afford one. One of the worst offenders is the Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM, which currently costs around £2,799 / $2,699. 

If you're a Canon mirrorless photographer, there's arguably nothing better for shooting portraits – even if the price does make your eyes water! However, it looks like Canon might be starting to develop a more affordable 85mm according to this new rumor.

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Rumor website Canon News has reported that Canon has filed a patent application for an RF 85mm f/1.8. While this is a couple of stops slower than the Canon RF 85mm f/1.2, this very likely means that it will be significantly cheaper. This could make it a fantastic option for Canon photographers who want to dip their toes in mirrorless waters without worrying too much about the price tag.

In addition, while the Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM is undoubtedly a fantastic lens, in reality you might not actually find too much difference between shooting with a f/1.2 lens and a f/1.8 lens. While you do get a couple more stops of light, it might be worth asking yourself if you'll actually use them.

Canon News also reported that Canon are also developing an RF 100mm f/2.8 – and that both new pieces of glass might be also be macro lenses. However, it's likely that we'll have to wait a while to see these rumors come to fruition. We'll keep you up to date on any new developments.

Read more

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Louise Carey

With over a decade of photographic experience, Louise arms Digital Camera World with a wealth of knowledge on photographic technique and know-how – something at which she is so adept that she's delivered workshops for the likes of ITV and Sue Ryder. Louise also brings years of experience as both a web and print journalist, having served as features editor for Practical Photography magazine and contributing photography tutorials and camera analysis to titles including Digital Camera Magazine and  Digital Photographer. Louise currently shoots with the Fujifilm X-T200 and the Nikon D800, capturing self-portraits and still life images, and is DCW's ecommerce editor, meaning that she knows good camera, lens and laptop deals when she sees them.