The 85mm focal length is well known as one of the best choices for flattering headshots and portrait work in general. In this video, portrait photographer and Sony Artisan Miguel Quiles takes a look at a surprising lens that punches well above its weight, the Sony 85mm f/1.8 lens. “In just about every photo shoot that I do, whether it’s in studio or on location, it’s almost certain that I’ll be using the Sony 85mm f/1.8 lens at some point.” Miguel goes through the key attributes and the anatomy of the Sony 85mm f/1.8 and why, as a pro, the under-the-radar fast prime is always in his kit for portrait photography.

Sony Artisan and portrait photographer Miguel Quiles provides an overview of the Sony 85mm f/1.8 and explains why it’s always in his portrait photography kit.

“The 85mm f/1.8 lens has an aperture range of f/1.8-f/22 and it features a 9-blade circular aperture,” Quiles explains. “It weighs in at 13.1 ounces and has a minimum focusing distance of 2.63 feet. On a crop sensor body, this lens gives you the 35mm equivalent of 127.5mm which is great for mid-length and close-up portraits.” 

Quiles says the lens is remarkable because he finds its image quality to be very comparable to that of top of the range lenses, but with a much lower price point. “The quality of bokeh when you’re shooting wide open looks great." He continues, "And even if you stop down, you’ll enjoy excellent sharpness. I use this lens all the time for my studio portrait shoots and oftentimes can do an entire photo shoot without having to switch to another lens. This is mainly due to the fact that the lightweight and compact design don’t come at the sacrifice of image quality.”

Purchase the Sony 85mm f/1.8 lens HERE.

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