Best Pick

Samyang Rokinon 85mm f/1.4 AF Lens for Canon EF

85.6 Portrait Score
85mm f/1.4 Canon EF
Why we recommend this

Its standout f/1.4 aperture enables exceptional low-light performance and beautiful background blur, ideal for portraiture. The inclusion of a hybrid aspherical element helps control optical aberrations for sharp images, while its relatively light 485g weight offers good handling. This lens is best for portrait photographers and budget-conscious shooters seeking professional-grade bokeh without the premium price tag of first-party optics.

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Great Alternatives

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

Canon Mitakon Zhongyi Speedmaster 35mm f/0.95 Mark II

85.5 Portrait Score
35mm f/0.95 Canon EOS M
Why we recommend this

Its f/0.95 maximum aperture provides exceptional low-light capability and extremely shallow depth of field, ideal for creative control. The lens offers a smooth, precise manual focus experience with a well-damped focus ring, complemented by a compact 458g design for portability. This lens is best for Canon EOS-M shooters specializing in portraits or street photography who prioritize bokeh quality and low-light performance over autofocus.

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Sigma 24mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens for Canon EOS EF

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

Its f/1.4 maximum aperture and robust HSM autofocus system enable excellent low-light performance and sharpness. The lens's 24mm wide-angle focal length is particularly well-suited for environmental portraits and cinematic video work. This lens is best for portrait photographers and videographers who need a fast, wide prime for creative shallow depth-of-field shots.

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Tamron SP 35mm f/1.4 Di USD Lens for Canon EF

82.3 Portrait Score
35mm f/1.4 Canon EF
Why we recommend this

Its f/1.4 maximum aperture enables excellent low-light performance and a very shallow depth of field. The lens is particularly strong for portrait photography, as reflected in its high score for that category. This prime lens is best for portrait photographers seeking a classic focal length with professional-grade background separation.

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