If you want to create impressive photographs with beautiful bokeh, the right lenses are crucial. In this article, we present the five best lenses for bokeh that will help elevate your portraits and other subjects to a new level. Whether you are an experienced photographer or a beginner, these lenses offer the necessary flexibility and quality to capture stunning images.
Key Insights
- The light intensity of a lens affects the bokeh and performance in low light.
- 85mm lenses are particularly versatile and suitable for portraits, events, and street photography.
- A large bokeh provides an appealing separation between the subject and the background.
- The choice of the right lens depends on your photographic style.
- High-quality lenses often offer better sharpness and less distortion.
1. Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L II USM
Okay, let’s talk about the Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L II USM. This lens is a true classic when it comes to bokeh. It may be a bit older, but it still delivers results that are impressive.
The thing is, it’s not exactly lightweight, either in terms of carrying or price. But if you really want that buttery smooth bokeh, it’s worth considering. The autofocus may not be the fastest, but the image quality is simply top-notch. Many photographers swear by this lens for portraits because it creates a very special look. It is a portrait lens EF 85mm with image stabilization.
Imagine photographing a portrait at wide open aperture and the background blurs into a beautiful, creamy bokeh. That’s exactly what this lens can do. It’s like magic for your photos.
A few points to keep in mind:
- The depth of field at f/1.2 is extremely shallow, so you need to focus precisely.
- It’s not the cheapest lens on the market.
- The autofocus could be faster.
Still, if you’re looking for a lens with incredible bokeh, you should definitely check out the Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L II USM. It’s a true classic for a reason.
2. Sony FE 85mm f/1.4 GM
Hey, have you ever tried the Sony FE 85mm f/1.4 GM? If not, you should seriously consider it, especially if you’re into portraits. This thing is really amazing when it comes to bokeh.
The lens is known for its sharpness and the buttery smooth bokeh it produces. It separates your subject beautifully from the background, making it really stand out. Sure, it’s not exactly cheap, but the quality justifies the price in my opinion.
There’s also a newer model, the Sony FE 85mm f1.4 GM II, but the original is still a great option that can be found at a slightly lower price.
I’ve gathered a few specs:
- Focal length: 85mm
- Maximum aperture: f/1.4
- Autofocus: Yes
- Image stabilization: No
The lens is robustly built and can withstand a little rain shower. Perfect if you like to be outdoors and don’t want to wait for perfect weather.
3. Nikon AF-S 85mm f/1.4G
Okay, now it gets exciting! The Nikon AF-S 85mm f/1.4G is a real heavyweight when it comes to bokeh. It’s been on the market for a few years, but don’t let that fool you. This thing still has it!
Are you looking for a lens that will elevate your portraits? Then you’re in the right place. This lens delivers buttery smooth backgrounds that perfectly showcase your subjects. Imagine photographing someone and the background blurs into a beautiful, creamy bokeh. That’s exactly what you get with the Nikon AF-S 85mm f/1.4G.
A few points to keep in mind:
- It’s not the lightest lens, so you’ll be carrying a bit of weight.
- The autofocus isn’t the fastest, but it’s more than sufficient for portraits.
- It’s an investment, but one that pays off if you value top image quality.
Sure, there are more modern lenses with faster autofocus and perhaps a bit more sharpness. But the Nikon AF-S 85mm f/1.4G has that certain charm, that look that many photographers love. It’s a classic that still impresses today. So if you’re looking for a lens with character, you should definitely take a closer look at the Nikon AF-S 85mm f/1.4G. It could be just what you need to create stunning contrast.
4. Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art
Okay, now it gets interesting! The Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art is really something special. If you’re looking for a lens that delivers sharp images with buttery smooth bokeh, then you should take a closer look at this one. It may not be the cheapest, but the image quality is simply top-notch.
I mean, sure, there’s always something to complain about, but with the Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art, that’s really minimal. It’s a bit larger and heavier than other 85mm lenses, but hey, you get what you pay for. And honestly, who wants a lightweight lens if the images don’t impress in the end?
The sharpness is simply incredible, even at wide open aperture. The bokeh is creamy and soft, perfect for portrait photography. And the best part: it’s available with various mounts, so whether you have a Canon, Nikon, or Sony, there’s a compatible version for you.
I’ve tried it myself and was really impressed. The colors are rich, the details are razor-sharp, and the bokeh… simply dreamy. So if you’re ready to spend a little more, the Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art is definitely worth considering.
Here are a few reasons why you should consider the Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art:
- Incredible sharpness
- Creamy bokeh
- Solid build quality
- Compatible with various camera systems
So, what are you waiting for? Grab the Sigma and get started!
5. Tamron SP 85mm f/1.8 Di VC USD
The Tamron SP 85mm f/1.8 Di VC USD is really an interesting option if you’re looking for an 85mm lens with image stabilization. That’s not so common in this focal length, and it can really help you get sharper images in lower light conditions.
It’s also a bit lighter and more compact than the other candidates here, making it more comfortable to carry around all day. The image quality is great, and the bokeh is also really nice and soft and creamy.
A few things to keep in mind:
- The maximum aperture is f/1.8, so it’s not quite as light-sensitive as the f/1.4 lenses, but it’s more than sufficient for most situations.
- The autofocus is good, but it may not be as fast as the top models from Canon or Sony.
- It’s a bit cheaper than the other lenses here, making it an attractive option if you don’t want to spend all your money.
Overall, the Tamron SP 85mm f/1.8 Di VC USD is a great choice if you’re looking for a lightweight, stabilized 85mm lens with good image quality and beautiful bokeh without breaking the bank. It’s a fantastic all-round lens for portraits and other applications.
Conclusion
So, those were the best lenses for bokeh that will help you take your photos to the next level. Whether you want to shoot portraits, landscapes, or just creative shots, with these lenses you are well-equipped. Remember, it’s not just about the technology, but also about your personal style. So grab one of these lenses and get started! And hey, if you have your own experiences or questions, let us know in the comments. Have fun photographing!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is bokeh?
Bokeh describes the out-of-focus background in a photo. It helps the main subject stand out better.
Why are 85mm lenses so popular?
85mm lenses are ideal for portraits as they produce nice sharpness and pleasant bokeh.
How does the aperture affect bokeh?
A larger aperture (e.g., f/1.2) allows more light to pass through and creates a nicer, softer bokeh.
Can I use an 85mm lens for landscape photography?
Yes, you can also photograph landscapes, but 85mm is primarily intended for portraits.
Are these lenses suitable for beginners?
Yes, many 85mm lenses are easy to use and are well-suited for beginners.
How much do good 85mm lenses cost?
The prices vary, but good 85mm lenses often cost between 400 and 2000 euros, depending on the brand and quality.
