Size really does matter when it comes to optics for full-frame cameras, and while carrying a big and heavy lens around is not always an attractive proposition, the quality that this particular big, heavy lens produces makes the inconvenience more than worthwhile. It outperforms other 85mm fast aperture lenses on every count – it looks fantastic, it feels fantastic and its images are filled with sharp detail and well-corrected aberrations.

The weight of those 11 large elements is directly related to the level of correction that is applied, and the lengthening of the optical path that creates the extensive barrel proportions is what helps to make corners almost as sharp as the centre and which banishes chromatic fringing.

This really is a costly piece of equipment, but if you want the best you will appreciate what this lens offers. Once used, others diminish by comparison. It is the finest 85mm around.

Score: 5 out of 5