Canon 85mm 1.8 or 100mm 2

[rtaub]

I'm trying to decide between these two lenses. The reviews I've read basically say you can't go wrong with either of them, but I really just don't know which one might be better in the long run. The price difference, 355 for the 85 vs. 395 for the 100 takes price out of the equation, unless someone knows where to get one cheaper. Any thoughts or ideas would be helpful.

Thanks,

Randy

[coffee]

I'm trying to decide between these two lenses. The reviews I've read basically say you can't go wrong with either of them, but I really just don't know which one might be better in the long run. The price difference, 355 for the 85 vs. 395 for the 100 takes price out of the equation, unless someone knows where to get one cheaper. Any thoughts or ideas would be helpful.

Thanks,

Randy

Hey Randy, Are you talking about the 100 2.8 macro? I have the 100, not the 85mm. I've heard the 85 is very nice glass, and I know the 100 is steller.

With the 100 being a macro lens there are things you will be able to do that the 85 could only come close. The 100 is great for macro. Tack sharp. But I feel the 85 has a better focal length for portraits.

So it all depends on what you will use the lens for mainly.

****Edit**** I just did a search on a 100mm 2.0. This must be what you are refering to. Sorry about that.

[rtaub]

Joe,

No, just the 100mm f/2 not the macro. I've looked at the macro too, but right now I'm looking for a lens with a fixed focal length which I can utilize indoors and out, but more indoors I think. I have the 50 1.8 II, which is nice, but I think to short a focal length to do any portrait or close ups, unless I want to be in the face of everyone.

Everything I read about the 85 tells me this might be the right lens. I'm trying to find it at a good price and have found 355 to be about the lowest price so far.

Thanks for the response, it's nice to hear from someone who has the 85 and really loves it.

Randy:)

[coffee]

Joe,

No, just the 100mm f/2 not the macro. I've looked at the macro too, but right now I'm looking for a lens with a fixed focal length which I can utilize indoors and out, but more indoors I think. I have the 50 1.8 II, which is nice, but I think to short a focal length to do any portrait or close ups, unless I want to be in the face of everyone.

Everything I read about the 85 tells me this might be the right lens. I'm trying to find it at a good price and have found 355 to be about the lowest price so far.

Thanks for the response, it's nice to hear from someone who has the 85 and really loves it.

Randy:)

Ya I realized that and edited last post at the same time you were posting. Here's a link that might help.

http://www.ephotozine.com/article/Focal-lengths-in-portraits-5687

[rtaub]

The article really did help. I think I'm leaning towards the 85 after the reading, should fit my needs quite nicely.

Thanks again for the help and info.

Randy