Best Lenses under £400 for portrait

Best Pick

Sigma Contemporary 56mm f/1.4 DC DN 56mm

84.8 Portrait Score
56mmf/1.4L-MountWeather Sealed
Why we recommend this

The bright f/1.4 aperture and 84mm full-frame equivalent focal length deliver sharp subject isolation and strong low-light performance in a compact, 280g body. Its weather-sealed construction and near-silent stepping motor AF add durability and discreet operation uncommon at this price point. This lens is best for APS-C mirrorless portrait and street photographers who need a lightweight, fast telephoto prime with professional-grade optics.

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Sigma Art AFG9C0 85mm

44.7 Portrait Score
85mmf/16L-MountWeather Sealed
Why we recommend this ▼

Featuring an f/1.2 maximum aperture and dual HLA-driven autofocus, this 85mm prime lens delivers razor-thin depth of field and fast, silent focusing for L-Mount portraits. Its 14-element optical design maintains sharpness wide open, with a 9-blade diaphragm rendering smooth bokeh. Portrait photographers seeking uncompromising subject isolation will find it ideal, though the 1130g weight limits travel use.

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Best Lenses under £800 for portrait

Best Pick

Sigma Contemporary 45mm f/2.8 DG DN 45mm

72.8 Portrait Score
45mmf/2.8L-MountWeather Sealed
Why we recommend this

A compact 215g full-frame prime with a fast internal focus system and weather sealing, this lens stands out for its versatile 45mm focal length and all-metal I Series build quality. Its f/2.8 aperture balances light gathering with a remarkably small footprint, making it a discreet everyday carry option. This lens is best for street and travel photographers who prioritize portability and tactile manual controls over maximum background separation.

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Great Alternatives

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Sigma DG Contemporary 24mm f/3.5 DG 24mm

72.3 Portrait Score
24mmf/3.5L-MountWeather Sealed
Why we recommend this ▼

Weighing just 225g with a weather-sealed, all-metal barrel, this lens stands out for its 1:2 maximum magnification and a 108mm minimum focus distance, enabling near-macro capability in a full-frame 24mm prime. Its fast internal focus system and knurled aperture ring deliver a tactile, precise shooting experience that belies its compact size. This lens is best for hikers and travel photographers who need an ultra-light, durable wide-angle that can capture both expansive landscapes and detailed close-ups.

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