It’s becoming increasingly apparent that Canon will be announcing an 85mm f/1.4L lens with image stabilization fairly soon, and as the time draws nigh, more detailed specifications are beginning to emerge. The lens is sure to be a hit and a major competitor to the Sigma 85mm f/1.4 Art.

The awesome people over at Canon Rumors have received more detailed specifications on the upcoming 85mm f/1.4L IS lens. This lens is not meant to replace, but rather complement the 85mm f/1.2L II, which will make a difficult choice for portrait photographers, as many view a wide-aperture 85mm lens with image stabilization as the holy grail. Nonetheless, Sigma has made major strides in recent years, and their 85mm f/1.4 Art lens is highly regarded, particularly for its wide-open sharpness. It looks like Canon photographers are going to have a surplus of capable 85mm optionss. Highlights of the upcoming lens include:

• Four-stop image stabilization
• Nine aperture blades
• Fluorine coating 
• Lighter than the 85mm f/1.2L II, but longer and with a larger filter size

An exact announcement date and pricing information have not yet been determined. Head over to Canon Rumors to see the full list of specifications.

[via Canon Rumors]