Originally posted by BarryE Very nice images. I wonder if anyone has done a comparison with the 77 Ltd? Not just a test chart, but real life portraiture. I suspect the 85mm will sometimes perform better outside than the 77, but how do they compare in a studio environment? The 77 has wonderful character and separation, as I'm suspecting does the 85, but the 77's handling is very convenient, whereas the 85 is very large and heavy, which, to me, seems a big negative. Anyone any views ...?
It might seem to be a big negative to those who haven't used the lens. Once one has used the lens, knowledge creeps into the conversation and the concerns are rendered nonexistent.
The 85 is plain and simply a much better lens in every respect than the 77. It's hands down no contest. I tend to shoot portraits off a tripod, so the weight isn't a concern. Having said that I shot a couple of outdoor sessions with the 85 last fall handheld and the weight was not a concern. Actually, when shooting handheld the extra weight is to the photographer's advantage.