What is the best high-quality portrait lens for the Leica SL2?

Question

What's the best high-end portrait lens for the SL2?

I'm torn between the 50mm Summilux and the 90mm APO. Read online that the 90 is "too clinical" for skin but the 50 is massive. I have a $5k budget and a wedding next Saturday so I gotta order today.

50mm Lux

90mm APO

Which handles skin better?

Frankneala · Accepted Answer

Late to the party but honestly, I've had issues with the native Leica SL primes for weddings. They're either back-breakingly heavy or way too clinical for a soft, romantic look. Unfortunately, paying five grand doesn't always get you the best soul in your shots. If you need to order today for next Saturday, I'd seriously consider these instead:Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG DN Art for L-MountThis is my go-to now. Its much lighter than the native 90mm and handles skin transitions way better. The 90mm APO is just too sharp for bridal work and shows every single pore.Panasonic Lumix S PRO 50mm f/1.4This lens is basically a Leica in a different shell. The rendering is creamy and it beats the native Lux for half the price. Ngl, native glass is just not as good as expected for the price point.Sigma 105mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art for L-MountIf you can handle the weight, this is the bokeh king for weddings. Basically, dont feel like you have to blow your whole budget to get the right look.

BryanDam · Answer

Honestly, I had issues with both. Buying the Leica Summilux-SL 50mm f/1.4 ASPH felt like the dream, but unfortunately its too heavy for a long wedding day. Between your choices, the 50mm definitely handles skin better because the Leica APO-Summicron-SL 90mm f/2 ASPH was just not as good as expected. It's so clinical it makes skin look harsh. Tbh neither really nailed it for me.

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What is the best high-quality portrait lens for the Leica SL2?