Best Lenses under $500 for portrait

Best Pick

Sigma 18-125mm f/3.5-5.6 DC IF Aspherical Zoom 18-125mm

62.4 Portrait Score
18-125mmf/3.5Nikon FIS
Why we recommend this

Its 7x 18-125mm range and optical stabilization, packed into a 385g body, deliver versatile focal length coverage with an aspherical element for improved sharpness. The Internal Focus design keeps the front barrel from rotating, simplifying the use of polarizing filters, a thoughtful touch for a budget lens. It’s a strong match for Nikon DX DSLR users wanting a lightweight, stabilized walk-around lens that can handle close-up subjects, as reflected in its highest test score for macro (59.1/100).

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Great Alternatives

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

Sigma Art 24-105mm f/4 DG OS HSM

44.6 Portrait Score
24-105mmf/22Nikon FIS
Why we recommend this

The constant f/4 aperture across a 24-105mm range, paired with a complex 19-element optical design using FLD and SLD glass, delivers sharp, aberration-free images for high-resolution Nikon F bodies. Its Hyper Sonic Motor and Optical Stabilizer provide fast, quiet autofocus and effective shake compensation, while the bundled filter kit adds immediate shooting value. This lens is best for landscape and travel photographers needing a single, durable full-frame zoom that balances optical performance with everyday versatility.

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Sigma EX DC HSM 10-20mm f/3.5 20mm

42.2 Portrait Score
10-20mmf/22Nikon FIS
Why we recommend this

A constant f/3.5 aperture across the 10-20mm zoom range provides consistent exposure control, supported by 3 ED and 4 aspherical elements to curb distortion. The HSM autofocus motor delivers quiet, fast focusing, while the built-in stabilization aids handheld shooting in tight interiors. This lens is best for APS-C landscape photographers needing an ultra-wide perspective without the bulk, weighing just 520g.

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Sigma EX DC HSM 10-20mm f/3.5 EX DC HSM 20mm lens
Price $479

Sigma AF DC 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 DC

37.4 Portrait Score
18-200mmf/22Nikon FIS
Why we recommend this

The 18-200mm zoom covers a 27-300mm equivalent range on APS-C cameras, with image stabilization and auto panning detection in a lightweight 405g body. A 0.45m minimum focus and 1:4.4 magnification enable versatile close-up shooting, while 72mm filter threads support easy accessory use. This lens suits outdoor travelers and hobbyists needing a single all-in-one option for landscapes and macro work, though portraiture results remain modest.

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Best Lenses under $1,000 for portrait

Best Pick

Sigma Art 10-20mm f/2.5 EX DC HSM 10-20mm

79.2 Portrait Score
10-20mmf/2.5Nikon F
Why we recommend this

The constant f/3.5 aperture across the 10-20mm zoom range provides consistent exposure control for wide-angle shooting on DX-format Nikon bodies. Its optical design incorporates two ELD and one SLD elements to effectively suppress color fringing, while the bundled filter and cleaning kit adds practical value. This lens is best for landscape and architecture photographers needing an ultra-wide 15-30mm equivalent field of view in a compact, 465g build.

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Great Alternatives

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

Sigma Contemporary 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM

75.2 Portrait Score
18-300mmf/3.5Nikon FIS
Why we recommend this

The 16.7x all-in-one 18-300mm focal range with 1:3 macro capability makes this bundle stand out for sheer versatility, supported by a Hyper Sonic Motor and Optical Stabilization. Its optical design with aspherical and ED elements ensures decent sharpness across the zoom range in a compact, travel-friendly build that pairs with extensive accessories. Best for street photographers and Nikon DX hobbyists needing a single-lens solution that can also capture detailed close-ups without switching glass.

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Sigma 106306 150mm

63.2 Portrait Score
150mmf/2.8Nikon FIS
Why we recommend this

The 150mm focal length combined with f/2.8 aperture and optical stabilization offers a 4-stop advantage for sharp handheld macro work, while three SLD elements correct aberrations for high contrast at 1:1 magnification. Its splash-proof construction and flat-field front element make it equally capable for precise copy work and weather-resistant field use. This lens is best for Nikon SLR photographers who need a dual-purpose tool for life-size insect macro and flattering facial portraits with a comfortable working distance.

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Sigma APO DG OS HSM 737306 150-500mm

53.5 Portrait Score
150-500mmf/5Nikon FIS
Why we recommend this

Covering a 150-500mm focal length with 4-stop optical stabilization, this lens delivers handheld reach for full-frame Sony A-mount bodies. The HSM autofocus is quiet and responsive, while three ED elements with multi-layer coating help control aberrations at the variable f/5-6.3 aperture. It’s best suited for outdoor wildlife and sports enthusiasts needing an affordable super-telephoto zoom without sacrificing stabilization.

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No Lenses under $1,500 yet. See our top picks

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Premium Lenses for portrait

Best Pick

Sigma Contemporary 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM

50.5 Portrait Score
150-600mmf/5Nikon FISWeather Sealed
Why we recommend this

The 150-600mm zoom range, supported by a Hyper Sonic Motor and Optical Stabilization, delivers sharp handheld shots of distant subjects. Its optical design, with one FLD and three SLD elements plus a Super Multi-Layer Coating, minimizes aberrations and flare for clear, high-contrast images. This lens is best for wildlife and sports photographers using Nikon F-mount who need an affordable, stabilized super-telephoto reach.

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