Why the Canon 85mm f/1.2L is My Favorite Lens as a Wedding Photographer
As a wedding photographer, one of the most important tools in my kit is the lens I choose to capture those once-in-a-lifetime moments. Out of all the lenses I’ve used, the Canon 85mm f/1.2L stands out as my absolute favorite. This lens has become a game-changer in how I approach wedding photography, and I want to share why it holds such a special place in my bag.
1. **The Dreamiest Portraits Imaginable**
Weddings are filled with emotional, intimate moments, and nothing showcases that better than portraits. Whether it’s the bride getting ready, a quiet moment between the newlyweds, or the father-daughter dance, the 85mm f/1.2L allows me to capture expressions with stunning clarity. Its wide aperture creates a beautiful, creamy bokeh that softly blurs the background, making the subject pop. This effect draws attention directly to the emotion of the moment, which is exactly what I aim to convey in every shot.
2. **Perfect for Low-Light Conditions**
In wedding photography, lighting can be unpredictable. From dimly lit ceremonies to twilight receptions, the Canon 85mm f/1.2L excels in low-light conditions. The f/1.2 aperture lets in an incredible amount of light, allowing me to shoot without bumping up the ISO too much or needing a flash that could disrupt the ambiance. This lens lets me stay in the moment and capture natural lighting, maintaining the authenticity of the scene.
3. **The Right Balance of Compression**
The 85mm focal length hits a sweet spot for me. It offers just the right amount of compression to flatter the subjects without the distortion you’d get with a wider lens. This makes it ideal for close-up portraits and full-body shots alike. I can step back slightly and capture an entire scene, like the couple framed by an archway or the bridal party lined up in a field, all while still feeling connected to the action. The images feel intimate but not intrusive, giving a true sense of the day’s emotions.
4. **Build Quality and Reliability**
As a photographer based in the Texas Panhandle, the conditions can be unpredictable. The Canon 85mm f/1.2L is built like a tank. It’s weather-sealed, durable, and reliable no matter the environment. Whether I’m photographing an outdoor ceremony under the Texas sun or an indoor reception in a candlelit barn, this lens can handle it all. I never have to worry about the quality of my gear failing me during a critical moment.
5. **It Lets Me Be Creative**
Wedding photography is not just about documenting moments; it’s about storytelling. The shallow depth of field at f/1.2 allows me to isolate my subjects in creative ways, drawing attention to the details that matter—the bride’s smile, the groom’s teary eyes, or the gentle touch of hands during the vows. This lens opens up possibilities for creativity that other lenses can’t match, and that flexibility is essential for capturing the dynamic, emotional moments of a wedding day.
6. **It's a Time-Saver**
On a wedding day, things move fast. There’s a lot happening, and being able to rely on one lens that can handle so many different scenarios saves me precious time. Instead of constantly swapping lenses or adjusting settings, I can stick with the Canon 85mm f/1.2L for large parts of the day, knowing that it will give me consistent, beautiful results in various lighting and compositional situations.
While every wedding photographer has their favorite go-to lens, for me, the Canon 85mm f/1.2L is the one I keep reaching for. Its ability to capture stunning portraits, handle low light, and offer creative flexibility is unmatched. When I’m photographing a wedding, my goal is to deliver images that tell the couple’s story in the most beautiful way possible, and this lens helps me do just that.
If you're a photographer looking to elevate your work or a couple who values timeless, emotional photos, you can be sure this lens will play a major role in your special day. At Clay Benedict Photography, it’s been the cornerstone of many unforgettable moments I've captured, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
