Im getting ready to move to Portland in a few months and want to get some good portrait shots of my friends before I head out. Currently rocking an A7III and just using the kit lens which is honestly pretty trash for what I want. Im looking to spend maybe 800 to 1000 bucks max, ideally less if possible but willing to stretch for quality glass.
Ive been scouring forums and reddit all week. Everyone keeps pointing to the Sony 85mm f/1.8 as the gold standard for value but then I keep seeing people swear by the Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG DN. Im worried the Sigma might be a bit too heavy for all-day shooting since I like to walk around the city with my camera. Does the sharpness of the Sigma really blow the Sony out of the water or is it just marginal gains at that point? Also read some stuff about autofocus speed differences but cant tell if that really matters for portraits since they arent exactly moving fast... what do you guys think? Is the extra weight of the 1.4 version worth the trade off or should I stick to the lighter 1.8...
Jumping in here to offer a more technical perspective on the glass. The Sony FE 85mm f/1.8 is a reliable performer, but if you prioritize optical fidelity, the Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG DN Art features superior chromatic aberration control and higher contrast across the frame. In my experience shooting with the A7III, the weight differential is about 350 grams, which is noticeable on a long day but the 1.4 aperture provides significant bokeh separation for portraiture.
- The Sigma uses an advanced optical design with 15 elements, reducing peripheral distortion.
- AF acquisition on the Sony lens is extremely snappy due to the lighter elements, yet the Sigma's linear motor system keeps up perfectly for stills. If you want the absolute best IQ, get the Sigma. If you prioritize ergonomics for walking around, the Sony is mathematically sufficient for most portrait use cases.
Honestly, just grab the Sony FE 85mm f/1.8 and call it a day. The weight difference is massive when you are wandering around all day. Sure, the Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG DN Art is technically sharper, but for portraits, you wont even notice it. Stick with the Sony and put the extra cash toward a nice strap or a coffee while you shoot. Its plenty sharp for portraits.
I had a similar dilemma when I upgraded. I prioritized my wrist health over absolute sharpness and it was the right call for long walks.
- watch your budget
- weight matters
- check used
