If you’re looking for a reliable lens for portraits with your Sony camera, you’ve come to the right place. Capturing portraits can be an intricate process that requires the right gear to get those professional-looking shots. A lens plays a crucial role in portrait photography as it allows you to create a shallow depth of field and achieve a more blurred background, a popular and eye-catching technique professionals often use.
There are a few factors to consider before investing in a lens for portraits with your Sony camera. Firstly, think about the purpose that the portrait photography will serve. Will it be for personal use or for professional purposes? Secondly, consider the lighting situations that the lens will be used in, particularly if you’re trying to achieve shallow depth of field. Finally, take into account the specific features that the lens offers such as focal length, aperture, and autofocus capabilities.
Are you struggling to find the perfect lens for portraits with your Sony camera? Not sure where to start? Then keep reading. We have compiled a list of the top lenses for portraits on Sony cameras, so you can make an informed decision when it comes to your gear. We’ll break down the pros and cons of each lens and suggest which lenses would work best in different scenarios. Want to elevate your portrait photography game? Then read on and find the perfect lens that will help you achieve those stunning portrait shots you’ve always dreamed of.
10 Best Lens For Portraits Sony
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1
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Ideal for portrait photography on Sony E-mount cameras with full frame sensors, such as A7III, A7RIII, A7SII, A7II, A9, A6500, A6400, A6300.
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2
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Ideal for capturing portraits with a shallow depth of field and smooth bokeh, perfect for low light situations.
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3
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The product is ideal for capturing medium distance portraits with Sony E mount mirrorless cameras.
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4
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Ideal for portrait photography on Sony full frame and APS-C mirrorless cameras with E-mount.
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5
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It is ideal for portrait photography on Sony E mount cameras with full frame sensors or APS-C sensors.
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6
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The lens is ideal for portrait photography with Sony E mount mirrorless cameras.
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7
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The product is ideal for macro photography, portraits, and capturing small objects with Sony E Mount mirrorless cameras.
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8
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This product is ideal for portrait photography with Sony Alpha cameras and NEX series.
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9
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The lens is ideal for portrait photography on Sony full-frame and APS-C mirrorless cameras with autofocus capabilities.
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10
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This lens is ideal for capturing expansive landscapes and architecture with sharp details and beautiful bokeh.
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1. Viltrox 85mm Lens: Ultimate Portrait Photography!
The AF 85/1.8 II FE is a high-quality, large aperture lens that is compatible with Sony E-mount cameras such as A7III, A7RIII, A7SII, A7RII, A7II, A9, A7, A7R, A6400, A6500, A6300, A6000, A5100, A5000, and NEX-7. It has an 85mm focal length and an aperture range of F1.8 to F16, making it perfect for portrait photography. This lens produces a wonderful background defocusing effect that helps the subject stand out easily.
The AF 85/1.8 II FE lens is equipped with full-frame, AF (auto-focus), and electronic aperture support. It also supports EXIF information transmission, electronic automatic iris adjustment, and records image information and shooting data. The lens has a noiseless STM focus motor, metal electronic contact, and 10 elements in 7 groups, including 1 ED lens and 4 short wavelength and high transparent lens. Additionally, it has a sturdy structure made of high-quality materials and HD Nano multilayer coating for improved image quality. The lens also has a micro USB port for firmware upgrades.
- Large aperture lens for better low-light performance
- Perfect for portrait photography
- AF and electronic aperture support
- STM focus motor for quiet and precise focusing
- Sturdy and durable construction
- HD Nano multilayer coating for improved image quality
- Micro USB port for firmware upgrades
2. Sony – E 50mm F1.8 Oss Portrait Lens (Sel50f18/b), Black
Capture stunning and sharp images with the help of the Built-in Optical SteadyShot image stabilization and 7-blade circular aperture of this mid-range telephoto prime lens. With a minimum focus distance of 1.28 ft (0.39 m) and maximum magnification ratio of 0.16x, it allows you to take detailed and close-up shots with ease.
This lens has a focal-length of 50 mm and filter diameter of 49 mm. Its large F1.8 maximum aperture enables beautiful defocusing effects that add depth and dimension to your photos. With an angle of view of 32° (APS-C), it offers a wide perspective that is perfect for portraits, landscapes, and street photography.
Not only is this lens high-performing, but it also boasts an elegant aluminum alloy exterior that is both durable and lightweight. It comes with a hood (ALC-SH116), lens front cap, and lens rear cap for added convenience and protection.
Overall, this mid-range telephoto prime lens is a great addition to any photographer's gear. It delivers exceptional image quality and offers creative flexibility for capturing stunning photos.
- Built-in Optical SteadyShot image stabilization for sharp images
- Large F1.8 maximum aperture enables beautiful defocusing effects
- Elegant aluminum alloy exterior that is durable and lightweight
- Comes with a hood, lens front cap, and lens rear cap for added convenience and protection
3. Meike Portrait Lens For Sony Mirrorless Cameras.
Capture stunning portraits, architecture, and landscapes with the Standard 85mm full-frame lens. Boasting a wide aperture of f1.8 and 9 diaphragm blades, it produces super smooth, round blur effects (bokeh).
This lens supports AF, electronic aperture adjustment, and EXIF information transmission, providing you with a seamless photographic experience. Equipped with an STM stepping motor, it ensures silent and smooth focusing every time.
The lens features a micro-USB firmware upgrade interface, which enables you to upgrade the lens online, ensuring that it is always up to date. Compatible with Sony E Mount Cameras, including A7, A7R, A74, A7R4, A7III, A7RII, A7RIII, and A7SIII, it is perfect for a wide range of photography applications.
Additionally, the lens is also compatible with Sony APS-C frame cameras, including A6300, A6400, A6500, and A6600, with an equivalent focal length of 127.5mm. It is important to note that it is not compatible with Sony NEX Series APS-C Cameras.
- Wide aperture of f1.8 and 9 diaphragm blades produce super smooth, round blur effects (bokeh)
- Supports AF, electronic aperture adjustment, and EXIF information transmission for a seamless photographic experience
- STM stepping motor ensures silent and smooth focusing
- Micro-USB firmware upgrade interface enables online upgrades, keeping the lens up to date
- Compatible with a wide range of Sony E Mount Cameras and APS-C frame cameras
- – Not compatible with Sony NEX Series APS-C Cameras
4. Sony 85mm Fixed Portrait Lens – Full Frame
The SEL-85F18 is a fast telephoto lens that is perfect for capturing beautiful portraits and other subjects with stunning detail and clarity. It features ED glass which compensates for aberrations, resulting in sharp and clear images. With a circular aperture that has nine blades, this lens is able to create beautiful blur effects that will make your photos stand out. The minimum focus distance of 0.8 m allows you to get up close to your subject and capture all of its details. The linear motor provides precise and quiet focusing, ensuring that you can capture your shots without disturbing your subject. The box contents include the lens itself, as well as a cap (ALC-SH150), front lens cap (ALC-F67S), and rear lens cap (ALC-R1EM).
Whether you're a professional photographer or an amateur enthusiast, the SEL-85F18 is a versatile lens that will help you take your photography to the next level. With its fast aperture and advanced optics, you can capture stunning images with ease. The lens is also lightweight and easy to handle, making it ideal for travel and outdoor photography. Overall, the SEL-85F18 is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality telephoto lens that delivers exceptional performance and image quality.
- Fast telephoto lens for capturing stunning images with ease
- ED glass compensates for aberrations, resulting in sharp and clear images
- Circular aperture with nine blades creates beautiful blur effects
- Minimum focus distance of 0.8 m allows you to get up close to your subject
- Linear motor provides precise and quiet focusing
- Box contents include lens, cap, front lens cap, and rear lens cap
5. Sony's 50mm Portrait Lens – Crystal Clear Shots
The Auto-focus prime lens AF 50/1.8 FE is an exceptional full-frame lens that is built to cater to Sony E-mount cameras. It is compatible with a range of Sony cameras, including A7 A7II A7III A7C A7R A7RIII A7RIV A7S A7SIII A9 FX3(support full frame); A5100 A6000 A6100 A6300 A6400 A6500 A6600 ZV-E10(support APS-C frame). With its 50mm focal length and F1.8 to F16 aperture range, it is a highly versatile lens that is perfect for portrait photography. The lens has a closest focusing distance of 0.55m and a maximum magnification of 0.1x, making it highly suitable for shooting in different environments. The lens supports full-frame, dual focusing mode (MF, AF), IS stabilization, EXIF information transmission, Type-C USB port for firmware upgrade, Sony eye auto-focus function, and electronic automatic iris adjustment, which makes it perfect for shooting in low-light environments with higher shutter speed and lower ISO. The lens is equipped with 2 aspheric lenses, 1 ED low dispersion lens, and 2 high refractive index lenses. Its STM+Lead Screw stepper motor, digital precise drive, and linear motion mechanism make it highly accurate, and it achieves quiet and accurate auto-focusing when shooting stationary subjects and movies. The lens is made of high-quality metal alloy with HD Nano multi-layer coating treatment, which effectively reduces ghosting and flare. Its lightweight, precise, and robust metal structure provides a pleasant experience of photo shooting.
- Compatible with a range of Sony cameras
- 50mm focal length and F1.8 to F16 aperture range
- Closest focusing distance of 0.55m and maximum magnification of 0.1x
- Supports full-frame, dual focusing mode (MF, AF), IS stabilization, EXIF information transmission, Type-C USB port for firmware upgrade, Sony eye auto-focus function, and electronic automatic iris adjustment
- Equipped with 2 aspheric lenses, 1 ED low dispersion lens, and 2 high refractive index lenses
- STM+Lead Screw stepper motor, digital precise drive, and linear motion mechanism make it highly accurate
- Made of high-quality metal alloy with HD Nano multi-layer coating treatment
- Lightweight, precise, and robust metal structure provides a pleasant experience of photo shooting
6. Meike 85mm Full Frame Portrait Lens
The Meike 85mm f/1.8 is a versatile portrait lens that is compatible with Sony E mount full frame mirrorless cameras, such as Sony a9, a7iii, a7ii, a7 series cameras, as well as APS-C frame cameras like Sony a6500, a6400, a6300, and a6000. With a wide aperture of f/1.8, this classic 85mm portrait lens can capture beautiful photos with a smooth background blur effect, even in dark environments. The lens features AF STM (A stepping motor) auto focus, which helps to reduce camera shake and capture images with less noise. The lens construction is 6 groups, 9 elements, making the lens capable of delivering sharp images. Additionally, the Meike lens features a micro-USB port, which allows you to upgrade the firmware online. You can easily download the firmware from the Meike official website.
The Meike 85mm f/1.8 is an excellent choice for portrait photographers who are looking for a versatile lens that can capture sharp images with a smooth background blur effect. The lens is also easy to use, thanks to its AF STM auto focus and micro-USB port for firmware upgrades. Additionally, the lens is compatible with a wide range of Sony cameras, from full frame mirrorless cameras to APS-C frame cameras, making it a great option for photographers who want to use the lens with multiple camera bodies.
- Wide aperture of f/1.8 for beautiful photos with smooth background blur effect, even in dark environments
- AF STM auto focus helps to reduce camera shake and capture images with less noise
- Micro-USB port allows for easy firmware upgrades
- – May not be as durable as more expensive lenses on the market
7. Astrhori: Macro, Tilt, Telephoto Lens For Sony.
Capture every detail with ease using the Full Frame Macro Lens. With a closest focusing distance of 0.25m and closest working distance of 0.11m, it's perfect for shooting insects, jewelry, flowers and more. The magnification ratio of 1:1 allows for detailed images, making it an ideal lens for macro photography. The lens structure consists of 11 elements in 8 groups, including two ED elements to suppress dispersion. With 12 aperture blades and excellent build quality, the lens provides sharp and clear images at both macro and infinity distances.
The APS-C Tilt Lens is perfect for capturing the microscopic world of Lilliput. With the ability to tilt the lens in multiple directions using the 360° rotation axis, you can change the focal plane and achieve clear images without changing the composition. When shooting in macro mode, you can change the focal plane through the tilt, making it a great tool for small object photography. In APS-C mode, the telephoto tilt angle can be up to ±8°.
For portrait photography, the Perfect Medium Telephoto Portrait Lens is the ideal partner. With a focusing distance of 0.28m to infinity, it not only has high optical quality and good depth of field control but also has a strong blurring ability with an F2.8 large aperture, making it perfect for highlighting the subject. Overall, it's an excellent lens for classic portrait shooting.
The Manual Prime Focus Lens is a must-have for professional photographers with some tilt-shift experience. It's compatible with Sony E mount mirrorless cameras and can help you solve photography problems while exploring new possibilities. It's perfect for shooting small objects and comes with a wide range of features such as multi-directional tilt and a telephoto tilt angle of up to ±8°.
- Full Frame Macro Lens has a magnification ratio of 1:1, ideal for macro photography
- APS-C Tilt Lens allows for multi-directional tilt and changing the focal plane without changing the composition
- Perfect Medium Telephoto Portrait Lens has a strong blurring ability with an F2.8 large aperture
- Manual Prime Focus Lens is ideal for professional photographers and compatible with Sony E mount mirrorless cameras
8. Full Frame Portrait Lens For Sony Alpha.
The LD85F18E mid-range telephoto prime lens is an excellent choice for portrait photographers. It features a compact, lightweight design that offers mobility and convenience. With high-performance optics and a large F1.8 maximum aperture, this lens delivers outstanding image quality with great sharpness and smooth bokeh. It's an excellent second lens for both full-frame and APS-C camera users.
However, it's essential to note that this lens requires complete manual focus operation on DSLR cameras. It's not suitable for SLR beginners and is recommended for photographers with excellent experience in equipment. The LD85F18E is compatible with several Sony cameras, including A9, A7R III, A7R II, A7R, A7S II, A7S, A7 III, A7 II, A7, NEX-7, NEX-6, NEX-5, NEX-5N, NEX-5R, NEX-5T, NEX-3, NEX-C3, NEX-F3, NEX-3N, A6500, A6300, A6000, A5100, A5000, A3000, and QX1.
If you're using this lens, set the mode dial to Manual (M), and enable the Release w/o Lens option in the camera menu. Also, turn off the Shutter lock option in the camera menu if there's no lens attached to the camera. With a large aperture and pleasing bokeh quality, this lens further enhances shallow depth of field images.
- Compact and lightweight design
- High-performance optics and large aperture for outstanding image quality
- Great sharpness and smooth bokeh for portrait photography
- Compatible with several Sony cameras
- – Requires complete manual focus operation on DSLR cameras
- – Not suitable for SLR beginners
9. Sony's Viltrox Auto Focus Portrait Lens
Capture stunning portraits with ease using the 85mm F1.8 AF Lens for Sony. This lens offers a versatile focal length that can be quickly and easily switched between half-length and full-length portraits. Whether you're using a full-frame or APS-C camera, the 85mm lens ensures you always have the perfect distance from your subject.
Featuring steady, fast, and smooth auto focus, this lens is perfect for capturing high-speed moving objects. It is widely compatible with full-frame cameras like the A7III, A7RIII, A7RII, A7II, and more. Once installed on a Sony camera, you can view aperture, shutter, exposure compensation, and other information.
The lens is equipped with metal electronic contacts, ensuring accurate and precise contact. It supports EXIF information transmission and electronic automatic iris adjustment, allowing you to record digital photo attribute information and shooting data.
With 10 elements in 7 groups and an ideal aperture with 9 blades, this lens incorporates new optical technology for excellent image quality. The 85mm large-aperture telephoto portrait fixed-focus lens is designed with an ED lens for superior performance.
Constructed with a rugged all-metal body, this lens has been engineered for precision and durability. It comes with a lens hood to reduce flare or scattering light of ghosts and to protect against rain, snow, or sticking to the front of the lens.
- Versatile focal length for capturing stunning portraits
- Steady, fast, and smooth auto focus for capturing high-speed moving objects
- Compatible with a wide range of Sony full-frame cameras
- Accurate and precise contact with metal electronic contacts
- Excellent image quality thanks to new optical technology
- Rugged all-metal body designed for precision and durability
- Comes with a lens hood for protection against flare, scattering light of ghosts, rain, and snow
10. Sony Fe 20mm F1.8 G Full-Frame Large-Aperture Ultra-Wide Angle G Lens, Model: Sel20f18g
The Compact Ultra-wide prime G lens is a great addition to any photographer's kit. It boasts a stunning wide-open resolution that provides extraordinary exposure and depth of field. The F1.8 max aperture is perfect for capturing stunning photos in low light conditions. The lens is compatible with both full-frame and APS-C2 cameras, making it an ideal choice for various photography needs. The design is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around and handle. The lens features advanced Aspheric elements that help in producing natural, lifelike high resolution images. The two XD Extreme Dynamic Linear motors provide fast and precise autofocus, making it easier to capture the perfect shot.
Overall, the Compact Ultra-wide prime G lens is a great investment for anyone who loves photography. Its high resolution and fast autofocus capabilities make it a great choice for capturing stunning images in any lighting condition. The compact and lightweight design makes it easy to handle and carry around. The compatibility with both full-frame and APS-C2 cameras makes it a versatile addition to any kit.
In conclusion, the Compact Ultra-wide prime G lens is an excellent choice for photographers who want to capture sharp and stunning images. Its impressive features, including its wide-open resolution and aspheric elements, make it a great investment. The fast and precise autofocus, combined with its lightweight and compact design, make it a great lens for any photography needs.
- Stunning wide-open resolution
- F1.8 max aperture provides extraordinary exposure and depth of field
- Compact and lightweight design
- Advanced Aspheric elements for natural, lifelike high resolution
- Two XD Extreme Dynamic Linear motors for fast, precise autofocus
Best Lens For Portraits Sony FAQs
Are there any affordable Sony lenses that are suitable for portraits?
Yes, there are several Sony lenses that are affordable and suitable for portraits. One option is the Sony 50mm f/1.8 lens, which is a great choice for those who want to capture sharp and detailed portraits with a beautiful bokeh effect. Another option is the Sony 85mm f/1.8 lens, which is slightly more expensive but offers even better image quality and a shallower depth of field. Both of these lenses are relatively affordable compared to some of Sony's more high-end offerings, making them a great choice for photographers who are just starting out or who want to experiment with portrait photography without breaking the bank. Additionally, there are several third-party lenses available for Sony cameras that are also affordable and suitable for portraiture, such as the Sigma 56mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary lens. Overall, there are plenty of options for those who want to take great portraits with a Sony camera without spending a fortune on lenses.
Can I use a zoom lens or should I opt for a prime lens for portraits on Sony cameras?
When it comes to portrait photography on Sony cameras, both zoom and prime lenses can be used. However, each has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Zoom lenses offer versatility as they allow you to zoom in and out, making it easier to capture shots from different distances without changing lenses. They are also great for capturing candid shots as they give you the flexibility to adjust quickly to changing scenes. However, zoom lenses tend to be heavier and bulkier than prime lenses, which may affect your mobility and make it difficult to capture shots in low light conditions.
On the other hand, prime lenses are lighter and smaller, making them easier to carry around for extended periods. They also tend to have wider apertures, which can produce beautiful bokeh and help you achieve a shallow depth of field for a more professional look. However, prime lenses are not as versatile as zoom lenses, and you may need to switch lenses frequently to capture shots from different distances.
In summary, both zoom and prime lenses can be used for portrait photography on Sony cameras. It ultimately depends on your personal preference and shooting style. If you prioritize versatility and convenience, a zoom lens may be the better choice. If you prefer a more artistic and professional look, a prime lens may be the way to go.
How do I choose the right focal length for a Sony lens for portrait photography?
Choosing the right focal length for a Sony lens for portrait photography is crucial in capturing the perfect shot. Generally, Sony lenses with a focal length between 50mm to 85mm are perfect for portrait photography. A 50mm lens offers a classic portrait look while an 85mm lens provides a more flattering effect with its ability to blur the background.
Other factors to consider when choosing a focal length for portrait photography include the distance between the camera and the subject, the style of portrait desired, and the location of the shoot. If you're shooting in a small space, a lens with a shorter focal length may be more appropriate, while a longer focal length is ideal for outdoor shoots or larger spaces.
Ultimately, the right focal length for a Sony lens for portrait photography will depend on the photographer's personal preference and the desired outcome of the shoot. It's important to experiment with different focal lengths and practice to find the perfect focal length for your style of portrait photography.
What are the best Sony lenses for portrait photography?
When it comes to portrait photography, the lenses you choose can make a huge difference in the quality of your images. Sony offers a range of lenses that are ideal for capturing stunning portraits, and some of the best options include:
1. Sony FE 85mm f/1.4 GM – This lens is renowned for its sharpness, bokeh, and overall image quality. It's perfect for capturing intimate portraits with a shallow depth of field.
2. Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS – This zoom lens is great for capturing portraits from a distance, and its fast aperture ensures that you can achieve a pleasing background blur.
3. Sony FE 50mm f/1.8 – This affordable prime lens is a great option for those on a budget, as it still delivers excellent image quality and a wide aperture for shallow depth of field.
4. Sony FE 135mm f/1.8 GM – This lens is relatively new to the market, but it's already making waves as one of the best portrait lenses available. Its long focal length and fast aperture make it perfect for capturing stunning headshots and close-ups.
Ultimately, the best Sony lens for portrait photography will depend on your personal preferences and shooting style. Consider your budget, desired focal length, and the type of portraits you want to capture when making your decision.
What are the key features to look for in a Sony lens for portrait photography?
When it comes to portrait photography, the quality of the lens is crucial. Sony offers a range of lenses that are specifically designed for this purpose. Here are some key features you should look for in a Sony lens for portrait photography:
1. Focal Length: A lens with a focal length of 85mm or longer is ideal for portrait photography. Sony offers several prime lenses in this range that can produce stunning results.
2. Aperture: A wide aperture (f/1.4 or f/1.8) is important for creating a shallow depth of field, which can help to isolate the subject and create beautiful bokeh in the background.
3. Image Stabilization: Sony lenses with built-in image stabilization can help to reduce camera shake and produce sharper images, especially when shooting in low light.
4. Sharpness: Look for a lens that is sharp and produces clear, high-quality images. Sony's G Master lenses are known for their exceptional sharpness and clarity.
5. Autofocus: A fast and accurate autofocus system is essential for capturing sharp portraits. Sony's lenses with advanced autofocus technology can help to ensure that your subject is always in focus.
Overall, a Sony lens with a combination of these features can help to create stunning portraits with beautiful bokeh and sharp details.