Canon RF 85mm F1.4L VCM
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 VCM1 focusing, an Iris Ring2 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 VCM1 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.
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 Ring2
Use the Iris Ring when shooting video for manual aperture control and enjoy a smoother, silent operation between stops.
VCM1 (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.
Feature icons
• 85mm hybrid prime lens: A short telephoto focal length that’s ideal for flattering portraits
• Fast, bright f/1.4 aperture: Achieve superb subject separation and bright, clean shots in low light
• VCM focus motor1: Drives smooth, quick and quiet autofocus
• 11-blade circular aperture: For cinematic bokeh and highlights
• Aspheric and UD elements: Exceptional sharpness where you need it most
• Dedicated Iris Ring2: Provides intuitive manual filmmaking control
• Custom button and Control ring: Convenient customisation for extra control over camera settings
• L-series: Professional construction and refined optical design
Optical Features/Specifications:
| Image Size |
Full Frame |
| Angle of View (Horizontal, Vertical, Diagonal) |
24º, 16º, 28º 30' |
| Lens Construction (elements/groups) |
14/10 |
| Special Optics |
1x UD 1x Gmo Aspherical |
| Special Features |
Iris Ring (Video) |
| No. of Diaphragm Blades |
11 |
| Minimum Aperture |
16 |
| Closest Focusing Distance (m) |
0.75 |
| Maximum Magnification (x) |
0.12 |
| Control Ring |
Yes |
| Image stabilizer IBIS x OIS |
CIPA-2024 standard: centre 8.0 and corner 7.0 stops |
| AF actuator |
VCM |
| Coatings |
ASC Super Spectra |
| Fluorine |
Front |
Physical Specifications
| Dust/moisture resistance |
Yes |
| Filter diameter(mm) |
67 |
| Max. diameter x length (mm) |
76.5 x 99.3 |
| Weight (g) |
636 |
Accessories
| Lens Cap |
E-67II |
| Lens Hood |
ET-73C |
| Lens case/pouch |
LP1219 |
| Rear Cap |
Lens Dust Cap |
| Extender Compatibility |
Not Compatible |
| Other Accessories |
Canon 67mm Circular Polarising Filter
Canon PL-C 67mm Circular Polarising Filter
|
Footnotes:
[1] Tested under CIPA standards. Lenses released after July 2024 tested under C IPA-2024
standard in the yaw/pitch (+ roll in case of IBIS) directions at maximum focal length, with a
specific camera.
[2] Lens dimensions when in retracted state
[3] Lenses with dust/moisture resistance are fitted with a rubber ring on the lens mount which
may cause slight abrasion of the camera mount. This in no way effects either the lens or
camera performance.
[4] Various limitations apply to some cameras; we recommend installing the latest Firmware
update on your camera for best performance. Even with latest Firmware update on EOS R ,
RP, R a, R3, R5, R 6, R6 Mark II, R 7, R8, R10, R 50, R100 and EOS R 5C when shooting still
photos, the aperture value cannot be set using the iris ring.
[5] Important: The Voice C oil Motor in the lens emits a low-level magnetic field. While generally
safe to use, w e advise consulting your doctor if you have a pacemaker or any other medical
device to address any concerns. When the lens is not connected to the camera or when the
camera is off may cause internal noise from the lens’s components. This is normal and not a
malfunction. Minor movements during transportation do not affect performance.