Canon Unveils RF 85mm f/1.4 L VCM Lens for Portraits and Video

Canon has announced the RF 85mm f/1.4 L VCM, a new RF-mount prime lens aimed at photographers and filmmakers who need a versatile short-telephoto option for portraits, events, and hybrid productions. The lens is part of Canon’s L-series and introduces a Voice Coil Motor (VCM) focusing drive designed to deliver fast, precise autofocus performance for both stills and video.

Positioned between Canon’s RF 85mm f/1.2L USM and more affordable 85mm offerings, the RF 85mm f/1.4 L VCM offers a slightly lighter and more compact option while retaining professional-level optics and build quality. Canon notes that the lens has been designed with minimal focus breathing, making it suitable for both photography and video use.

Key Specs

• Focal length: 85mm

• Maximum and minimum aperture: f/1.4 – f/16

• Compatible cameras: Canon EOS R-series, both APS-C and full frame

• Minimum focusing distance: 0.75 m (2.46 ft.)

• Maximum magnification: 0.12x

• Lens construction: 14 elements in 10 groups

• Special elements: One UD (ultra-low dispersion) element, one aspherical element

• Lens coatings: Air Sphere Coating (ASC), Super Spectra Coating (SSC), Fluorine coating

• Filter size: 67 mm

• Aperture blades: 11 rounded blades

• Autofocus system: VCM (Voice Coil Motor) drive, supports One Shot AF and Servo AF

• Full-time manual focus: Yes

• Control features: AF/MF switch, electronic manual focus ring, iris ring, control ring, lens function button

• Aperture adjustment steps: 1/32 stop increments for video, standard increments for stills (via camera body)

• Distance scale: Digital (viewable in EVF or Live View on compatible EOS R-series cameras)

• Weather sealing: Yes

• Dimensions: 76.5 mm (diameter) × 99.3 mm (length)

• Weight: Approx. 1.4 lbs (22.4 oz)

• Included accessories: ET-73C cylindrical lens hood, E-67II front lens cap, RF dust cap, LP1219 lens case

With its combination of a fast f/1.4 aperture, professional-grade build, and support for both stills and video workflows, the RF 85mm f/1.4 L VCM fills a gap in Canon’s RF lineup. It provides an option for shooters who want a balance of speed, size, and cost, sitting neatly between the flagship RF 85mm f/1.2L and the RF 85mm f/2 Macro IS STM.

The lens is available for preorder with a retail price of $1,649.