Im finally stepping up my portrait game and just got a Sony A7IV and im so hyped to start shooting professionally!! I have a cousins graduation coming up next month in Seattle and I really need a solid prime lens before then. Right now im basically torn between the Sony 85mm f1.8 and the Sigma 85mm f1.4 DG DN. The Sony is way cheaper and lighter but everyone says the Sigma has that magic bokeh even though its heavier and more expensive. My budget is capped at about $1100 so the GM is definitely out of the question for now... do you guys think the extra weight and cost of the Sigma is actually worth it for those outdoor shots or should I just stick with the reliable f1.8 and save some cash?
I've been shooting with the Sony FE 85mm f/1.8 for a few years and I'm honestly very satisfied with how it performs. Since you're just starting professional work, reliability should be your top priority. Seattle weather can be tricky, and having a native lens usually means better weather sealing and more consistent autofocus.
- The autofocus is lightning fast on the Sony A7IV, which is crucial for candid shots at a graduation.
- Its way lighter than the Sigma, so you wont get tired carrying it around the ceremony all day.
- You save about $500, which you can put toward a solid speedlight like the Godox V1S Flash for Sony. The Sigma is nice, but for a first pro lens, the Sony 85mm is a safer bet that works well every time. No complaints from my end.
