I think the 85/1.8 if great for portraits. Had that before I got the 85mm f/1.2L II. On FF, I usually shoot at f/1.6-f/2.2 with the 85L. IMO, the 85/1.8 is one of the best values in the Canon lineup. Do get the hood, and if you plan to use it outdoors, you might want a 3-stop ND filter (B+W 103, 58mm $42 at B&H).