In this discussion, we’ll look at the best portrait lenses you can use with the Nikon D850. The D850 is a professional DSLR from the Nikon stable. One of the very few DSLR cameras that Nikon continues to sell in 2023. It continues to enjoy user patronage even today. If you have this camera or are looking to invest in it and pair it with a portrait lens, these are some options you can look into.

Nikon AF-S Nikkor 85mm f/1.8G

This is the cheapest of the three options on offer. This lens offers a maximum aperture of f/1.8 compared to f/1.4 offered by the two other lenses. But even with an f/1.8 aperture, this is a formidable lens. The lens is ideal for separating a subject from the background and capturing a beautiful background blur. One of the lens’s better features is that its front element does not rotate when it focuses. This ensures the precise use of filters. This lens has seven rounded aperture blades compared to nine rounded blades in the other two lenses. Despite being a plastic-dominated construction, the lens is very well built.

Sigma 85mm F1.4 EX DG HSM

Between this lens and the Nikon, this one offers 2/3rd stops more light. This comes in handy when you’re shooting in low-light conditions. Even without image stabilization, this is one lens you cannot miss a sharp image. Additionally, you can capture the excellent shallow depth of field. But the problem with lenses with such wide apertures is that the focus can quickly go wrong. If your subject moves or your hands move at the precise point when you press the shutter release, it becomes tough to get a sharp focus. But on the flip side, the background blur you get is very smooth.

Nikon AF-S Nikkor 85mm f/1.4G

Being an f-mount lens, this lens works with FX format and DX-format cameras. With your D850, this is a lens that you can’t go wrong. This is a very well-made lens. The maximum aperture is faster than the Nikon AF-S Nikkor 85mm f/1.8G I discussed above. This is a fantastic lens to have in low light. Being an OEM lens, it also performs well. This lens has been upgraded with Nano crystal coating, ensuring better response in challenging lighting conditions. Something that wide-open aperture lenses tend to suffer from. Additionally, the lens is weather sealed and ready for inclement weather.

Paul Petersen