Best Pick

Viltrox LAB AF 35mm f/1.2 Z

86.9 Portrait Score
35mm f/1.2 Nikon Z
Why we recommend this

Its f/1.2 maximum aperture offers exceptional low-light performance and a very shallow depth of field for a full-frame lens. The quiet VCM focusing motor and an integrated LCD screen for settings are practical features for on-location work. This lens is best for portrait photographers and videographers who prioritize a bright, fast aperture and manual control in a native Z-mount design.

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Great Alternatives

These options also score highly and may better suit your specific needs

Tamron SP SP 35mm f/1.4 Di USD

86 Portrait Score
35mm f/1.4 Nikon F Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its f/1.4 maximum aperture and inclusion of four LD and three aspherical elements deliver exceptional sharpness and bokeh, making it a standout for its optical performance. The lens is built with a robust construction and features Tamron's USD motor for fast, quiet autofocus, though it lacks weather sealing. This prime is best for portrait photographers and Nikon shooters prioritizing optical quality over portability in a standard focal length.

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Rokinon SP SP 35mm f/1.2

85.8 Portrait Score
35mm f/1.2 Canon EF
Why we recommend this

Its f/1.2 maximum aperture enables exceptional low-light performance and extremely shallow depth of field, supported by advanced optics including aspherical and ED elements. The robust, all-metal build quality and 86mm filter thread contribute to a substantial, professional-grade feel. This lens is best for portrait photographers seeking a unique, character-rich 35mm perspective with a very fast aperture for creative control.

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Nikon NIKKOR AF-S 85mm f/1.4G

85.7 Portrait Score
85mm f/1.4 Nikon F
Why we recommend this

Its f/1.4 maximum aperture enables exceptional subject isolation and low-light performance for portraiture. The lens features Nano Crystal and Super Integrated coatings to effectively suppress flare and ghosting. This lens is best for portrait photographers seeking classic compression and a very shallow depth of field.

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Sony G Master SEL85F14GM FE 85 mm f/1.4

85.4 Portrait Score
85mm f/1.4 Sony Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

Its f/1.4 maximum aperture and XA element deliver exceptional sharpness and smooth bokeh for professional portraits. The linear SSM focus system provides fast, quiet, and precise autofocus, making it suitable for both stills and video work. This lens is best for portrait photographers and videographers who prioritize ultimate subject isolation and rendering quality on full-frame Sony cameras.

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Rokinon AF 50mm f/1.4 FE II

81.1 Portrait Score
50mm f/1.4 Sony E
Why we recommend this

Its fast f/1.4 aperture and 420g weight offer excellent low-light performance in a portable package for Sony full-frame cameras. The lens stands out with a customizable control ring and a hybrid autofocus system that allows for manual override. It is best for portrait photographers and street shooters who prioritize a bright aperture and tactile control in a compact lens.

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Canon L EF 24mm II USM

77.5 Portrait Score
24mm f/1.4 Canon EF
Why we recommend this

Its f/1.4 maximum aperture and inclusion of two aspherical and two UD elements deliver exceptional sharpness and control over spherical aberrations. The Sub Wavelength Coating effectively minimizes ghosting and flare for high-contrast images even in challenging light. This lens is best for portrait and event photographers who require a fast, wide-angle prime with superb optical quality for environmental shots.

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Sigma Contemporary 65mm f/2 DG

77.3 Portrait Score
65mm f/2 Sony E
Why we recommend this

Its f/2 aperture and 65mm focal length make it a dedicated short portrait-length prime with a fast internal focus system for responsive shooting. As part of the I-Series, it offers robust build quality and tactile controls that exceed its class. This lens is best for portrait photographers seeking a sharp, moderately fast prime with exceptional handling for studio or environmental work.

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Samyang XP 85mm f/1.2

76.1 Portrait Score
85mm f/1.2 Canon EF
Why we recommend this

Its f/1.2 maximum aperture enables exceptional low-light performance and a very shallow depth of field for professional-looking portraits. The lens construction, featuring one aspherical and two high-refractive-index elements, is designed to control optical aberrations and deliver sharp images. This is an ideal choice for portrait photographers seeking the classic 85mm focal length with an extremely fast aperture for studio or controlled outdoor work.

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Pentax HD -FA 77mm f/1.8 Limited

74.7 Portrait Score
77mm f/1.8 Pentax K
Why we recommend this

Its 77mm focal length and fast f/1.8 aperture are ideal for creating sharp subject separation and a classic portrait look. The lens is distinguished by its compact 269g metal build and high-grade HD coating for reduced flare. This lens is best for Pentax photographers seeking a lightweight, character-rich prime for portraiture and street photography.

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Panasonic 12-60mm f/2.8-4.0 G Leica DG Vario-Elmarit Power OIS

68.9 Portrait Score
12-60mm f/2.8 Micro Four Thirds IS Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

With a constant f/2.8 aperture and built-in stabilization, it delivers reliable performance in a compact Micro Four Thirds zoom lens. Its versatile 12-60mm focal range and strong video score make it a practical all-rounder for travel and run-and-gun filmmaking. This lens is best for Micro Four Thirds shooters who need a lightweight, stabilized zoom for everyday photography and handheld video work.

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