Best Lenses under CA$700 for portrait

Best Pick

Canon RF 45mm f/1.2 STM

96.6 Portrait Score
45mm f/1.2 Canon RF
Why we recommend this

Its standout f/1.2 maximum aperture on a full-frame sensor delivers exceptional low-light performance and a very shallow depth of field for portraiture. The lens is remarkably compact and lightweight for its speed, and its STM motor and customizable control ring enhance usability. This prime is best for portrait photographers and content creators who prioritize creamy bokeh and a portable, fast-aperture setup over weather sealing or extreme close-focusing.

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Canon High-Power 420-1600mm f/8.3 Manual Telephoto Zoom

20.4 Portrait Score
420-800mm f/8.3 Canon RF IS
Why we recommend this

Its manual focus design and constant f/8.3 aperture provide a lightweight, 1139g option for extreme telephoto reach from 420-800mm. This lens offers significant cost savings for photographers needing long focal lengths, specifically for Canon RF-mount mirrorless cameras. It is best for patient wildlife or landscape photographers who are comfortable with manual focus techniques.

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Best Lenses under CA$1,500 for portrait

Best Pick

Canon RF 85mm f/2 Macro IS STM

76.5 Portrait Score
85mm f/2 Canon RF IS
Why we recommend this

Its 85mm f/2 design provides a versatile portrait focal length with the added benefit of macro capability, while its built-in Optical Image Stabilization offers up to 5 stops of shake correction for handheld shooting. The lens is designed for Canon's RF-mount full-frame cameras, integrating seamlessly with that ecosystem. This lens is best for portrait photographers who also want to explore close-up detail work without needing a dedicated macro lens.

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Trioplan 100 f2.8 II

57.2 Portrait Score
100mm f/2.8 Canon RF
Why we recommend this

Its standout feature is a classic triplet optical design paired with a 15-blade diaphragm, which produces its signature "soap bubble" bokeh for distinctive portraits. The compact aluminum build and full-frame coverage make it a lightweight, character-focused lens for Canon RF shooters. This lens is best for portrait photographers and videographers specifically seeking a unique, vintage-inspired aesthetic over clinical sharpness.

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Best Lenses under CA$2,000 for portrait

Best Pick

Canon L VCM

96.4 Portrait Score
85mm f/1.4 Canon RF Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its 85mm f/1.4 aperture and Voice Coil Motor AF system deliver exceptionally fast, quiet autofocus ideal for capturing fleeting moments. The lens features a de-clickable manual aperture ring for precise, silent control during video work. This lens is best for portrait photographers and hybrid shooters who prioritize speed and smooth manual operation in a dedicated portrait-length prime.

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Canon RF VCM

91.1 Portrait Score
35mm f/1.4 Canon RF Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its f/1.4 maximum aperture and VCM autofocus system provide exceptionally fast, quiet operation ideal for video capture. The lens also features a dedicated iris ring for manual control and an Air Sphere Coating to reduce flare. This lens is best for hybrid shooters and videographers who need a fast, versatile prime with professional-grade control and minimal focus breathing.

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Canon RF VCM lens
Price CA$1,999

Biotar 58mm f/1.5 II

63.9 Portrait Score
58mm f/1.5 Canon RF
Why we recommend this

Its manual focus design and 14-blade diaphragm produce exceptionally smooth bokeh, ideal for portrait photographers seeking a classic look. The substantial 1361g weight and lack of stabilization make it a poor choice for handheld video or travel. This lens is best for portrait photographers who prioritize creamy, cinematic background blur and don't mind manual operation.

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Best Lenses under CA$3,500 for portrait

Best Pick

Canon L VCM

90.4 Portrait Score
20mm f/1.4 Canon RF Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its f/1.4 maximum aperture and 20mm focal length provide an ultra-wide perspective with exceptional low-light capability. The lens is uniquely designed for hybrid creators, featuring a Voice Coil Motor for smooth, silent video autofocus and a de-clickable aperture ring for manual control. This lens is best for full-frame Canon shooters specializing in astrophotography, immersive environmental portraits, or documentary-style video work.

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Price CA$2,399
Canon L VCM lens

Premium Lenses for portrait

Best Pick

Canon L VCM

83.9 Portrait Score
14mm f/1.4 Canon RF
Why we recommend this

Its ultra-wide 14mm focal length paired with a fast f/1.4 maximum aperture provides exceptional low-light capability and a vast field of view. The lens also features advanced coatings like ASC and SWC for superior clarity and color fidelity, minimizing flare and ghosting. This lens is best for professional landscape and architectural photographers who require extreme wide-angle shots with excellent low-light performance.

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Canon RF 85mm F1.2 L USM Mid-Telephoto Prime

77.4 Portrait Score
85mm f/1.2 Canon RF Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its f/1.2 maximum aperture provides exceptional low-light performance and profound background blur, aided by specialized BR optics for minimal chromatic aberration. The lens offers a versatile 85mm focal length ideal for subject isolation and includes a control ring for direct camera setting adjustments. This lens is best for portrait photographers seeking ultimate sharpness and creamy bokeh in a dedicated mid-telephoto prime.

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