Best Pick

Sigma Art 50mm f/1.4 DG HSM 50mm

56.2 Portrait Score
50mm 16 Nikon F Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

The f/1.4 maximum aperture and 13-element optical design with aspherical and ED glass deliver edge-to-edge sharpness and excellent low-light performance. Its 9-blade diaphragm produces smooth, natural bokeh, and the robust build ensures lasting reliability without weather sealing. This lens is best for portrait and street photographers who need dependable autofocus and creative background blur in challenging light.

View Details & Prices

Great Alternatives

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

Sigma Contemporary 23mm f/1.4 DC DN 23mm

55.1 Portrait Score
23mm 16 Canon RF Weather Sealed
Why we recommend this

The 23mm f/1.4 prime offers a constant max aperture and weather-sealed build in a 345g package, delivering sharp images with smooth bokeh from its 9-blade diaphragm. Its stepping motor enables fast, precise autofocus ideal for capturing fleeting moments, while the compact design suits APS-C mirrorless systems. Best for portrait and street photographers who prioritize low-light performance and image quality in a lightweight, carry-everyday lens.

View Details & Prices

Sigma EX DG 8mm f/3.5 EX DG Circular Fisheye 8mm

24 Portrait Score
8mm 22 Nikon F
Why we recommend this

Its 8mm focal length captures a full 180-degree circular image on full-frame sensors, with an f/3.5 aperture and one ED element maintaining sharpness across an 11-element, 6-group optical design. Close focusing to 5.3 inches yields a 1:4.6 magnification for dramatic near-subject distortion, while the rear gelatin filter holder and Super Multi-Layer coating enhance creative control and contrast. It’s best for photographers seeking extreme barrel distortion and exaggerated perspectives for creative compositions, as its low 24.6 portrait score confirms it’s ill-suited for conventional subjects.

View Details & Prices