If you're doing fast family sessions, the Canon RF 85mm f/2 Macro IS STM might actually annoy you. The STM motor is definitely slower than the USM stuff you were probably using on your 5D. It's a sharp lens, but it hunts more in low light. With 1800 bucks, you're just shy of the Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM price tag, which is basically the gold standard for optics but weighs a ton and costs a fortune. Have you checked out the Canon RF 135mm f/1.8L IS USM tho? It usually sits right around your budget and the Nano USM is lightning fast for kids running around. It gives you that creamy compression that makes wedding portraits pop. If you must stay strictly under budget, maybe look for a used Canon RF 50mm f/1.2L USM. The R6 II sensor is great, but it really shines when you feed it that high-end glass.

Just saw this and gotta say, i was really disappointed when i tried the budget route with the Canon RF 85mm f2 Macro IS STM. I thought it would be fine but it honestly felt like a toy compared to my old EF L glass. The autofocus motor is noisy and just sluggish enough to be frustrating during a fast session. Unfortunately, i found that the cheaper RF primes just dont have the same reliability i need for paid work. If youre doing this for a living, that 1800 dollar budget is a tough spot since the Canon RF 85mm f1.2L USM is so much more. I ended up stretching for the Canon RF 50mm f1.2L USM because the focus speed is night and day. Its heavy, but the peace of mind knowing it wont hunt when the light drops is worth it. Id stay away from the f2 and keep saving.

Saw this, huge congrats on the R6 II! That eye-AF is seriously amazing. Quick question tho, are you mostly shooting outdoors in those big Seattle parks or doing tight indoor sessions?

• Canon RF 50mm f/1.2L USM: Superior optics and incredibly fast USM focus motors.
• Canon RF 135mm f/1.8L IS USM: Exceptional subject separation plus Nano USM and IS. Both are fantastic for high-end work!

Honestly, in my experience shooting professional portraits, the biggest thing is reliability. I have tried many different setups over the years but for weddings and paid family work, I always tell people to just stick with any of the L series primes from Canon. You really cant go wrong with that red ring glass. The consumer level stuff is okay for light use, but it just doesnt have the same autofocus speed or weather sealing you need when youre out in the field. If you want something that works every time without hunting, just get a professional series lens from Canon and skip the entry level options. It saves money in the long run because you wont feel the need to upgrade later when the cheaper gear lets you down during a session.