Canon EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM vs. Canon EF-S 15-85mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM Lens

Also don

I have a rebel t2i - would you recommend the 85mm or the 50mm 1.4? I have heard some say the 85mm is too close up for a lot of shots, but it also seems to be really sharp which is what I'm after. I already have the 50mm 1.8 and I love it, but I'm looking for the next step up.


50mm on the t2i is like 80mm on a full sensor, so is it really a better choice when it comes to portraits? The 85mm is like 136mm on a 1.6 crop sensor...which seems it really would limit the situations it could be used in.

The EF 135mm f/2L is a great portrait lens (on FF). The

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Originally Posted by neuroanatomist

You also mention sharpness. While both the 50/1.4 and the 85/1.8 are sharp stopped down, the 85/1.8 is much sharper wide open (where you'd likely be for portraits).

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+1 on John's comment here. I have a 7D and used to have the 50 f/1.4 and now have the 85 f/1.8. The 50 was hit or miss at f/2.5 and wider and I sold it out of frustration. The 85 is stellar even at f/1.8 so long as you have a fast enough shutter (for my hands, I prefer at least 1/160s). Even if the 50 is a better focal length for your needs, I'd try hard to make the 85 work. Unless of course the 50 f/1.2 is in your budget. [:)]

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Originally Posted by thekingb

+1 on John's comment here. I have a 7D and used to have the 50 f/1.4 and now have the 85 f/1.8. The 50 was hit or miss at f/2.5 and wider and I sold it out of frustration.

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That is totally helpful - exactly what I was wondering. I'm all about sharp pictures (the kit lenses are driving me nuts, but my funds are quite limited). I'll put the 85mm on the list!


Thanks!