Zeiss's cinema portrait — the CP.2 85mm T2.1 for PL-mount close-up and dialogue coverage.
The Zeiss CP.2 85mm T2.1 is the portrait focal length member of the CP.2 cinema series in PL mount. At 85mm T2.1, it provides the classic tight framing for close-ups, dialogue, and portrait coverage. The T2.1 speed enables shallow DOF for cinematic subject isolation. One of the most essential lenses in any CP.2 set.
Optical performance is excellent. Sharpness is very good from T2.1. The 85mm provides the most commonly used tight perspective in narrative cinema — close enough for intimate dialogue yet long enough to avoid unflattering wide-angle distortion. T* coating ensures contrast. Bokeh is smooth for cinematic portrait rendering. Colour matches the CP.2 set.
PL mount. Full-frame coverage. 114mm front diameter. Weight is approximately 1,100 grams. Build quality is outstanding Zeiss precision. Geared focus and iris rings with luminous markings. Manual focus. The CP.2 85mm is one of the most-used focal lengths in cinema — essential for any prime set targeting narrative and dialogue-heavy production.
Available on the used cinema market. Check geared rings. The 85mm is essential for cinema sets — one of the first three focal lengths purchased (alongside 35mm and 50mm). The CP.3 85mm T2.1 supersedes with improved features. The CP.2 85mm remains an excellent cinema portrait prime at a lower used price.