Option 2: Tamron 24-70mm f/2.8
Pros
- Excellent optics
- Image stabilization
- Good price
- Lighter than the Nikon version
Cons
- Maybe a TINY bit less sharp in the corners
Top Result: Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8
Pros
- Extremely good optics
- Vibration reduction
- Good build quality and weather sealing
Cons
- Very expensive
- Very heavy
Note From Jim
If I only had one portrait lens for my Nikon, it would be the Nikkor 70-200. No questions. But the Tamron 70-200 is a lot less expensive and 95% as good. Next, I'd want a 24-70mm f/2.8, and for that one I'd actually PREFER the Tamron since it has image stabilization. Last, I want a super fast prime like the Sigma 85mm f/1.4. The Nikkor 85mm f/1.4 is probably a tiny bit better, but the Sigma is really really close for a lot less money. With those three lenses I would feel 100% confident shooting any portrait photography job.
Option 3: Sigma 85mm f/1.4
Pros
- Good price
- Excellent image quality
- Very fast aperture
- Good build quality
Cons
- No convenience of a zoom