Who hasn’t given this classic lens a glowing review? It’s renowned for stunning portraits and for being a very sharp lens.
But I couldn’t find a discussion that focused on its ability to shoot low light sports – and specifically – could it focus fast enough in low light to get the job done? Even if the 85mm f/1.8 is a “bargain” – I’m still looking for good sports images.
Question: Could this be used as a stunt double for the Canon 70-200mm f/4L – that focuses fast, accurately, and is sharp – when the lights go low – all without breaking the bank?
The Philomath Frolic and Rodeo is a tough place to shoot. 
When the sun goes down – and the lights go on – it’s pretty difficult to get photons on the sensor. The 70-200mm f/4L is pretty good glass – but even wide open – it’s not fast enough for these conditions – unless the ISO is at or above 3200. And as the last event of the evening is bull riding – it’s important to keep shooting.
So, I took a chance on Canon’s classic – and ordered it from Amazon (nobody locally had it in stock). The lens hood wasn’t available – so I bought a rubber one that screws into the filter threads – not only does this help with flare – but at an event like rodeo – it can help keep dust off the glass. It did the trick – but I’m looking forward to getting the actual Canon hood on it.
On Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evening – I shot this lens available light only, handheld, and at or near f/1.8.
Bottom line: This lens works. I was able to get good shots – it’s sharp – and it locked on quickly.
Of course, this is a fixed focal length lens – so I lost some zoom – but considering the alternative – I found this to be a reasonable trade-off.
Is it “L” quality? Heck – I dunno –I’ll let others debate that. Does it deliver usable images – yes.
And the weekend after the rodeo – I was shooting backstage at the daVinci Days festival in Corvallis. Once the sun went down – and it was just stage lighting – I again pulled out the 85mm glass. Even for the handheld shot of the Cart de Frisco at night – this lens performed very well.
And though this will likely be somewhat of a niche lens for me – it’s a keeper.
really awesome photos.