Is the zeiss otus ml 85mm f 1 4 good for portraits?

Yes, on a full-frame camera the Otus ML 85mm f/1.4 is a strong portrait lens. An 85mm gives flattering perspective, soft backgrounds, and a comfortable working distance, which is exactly what the portraits page recommends. Its f/1.4 aperture gives you plenty of background blur.

Two things to weigh before buying. It's manual focus only, so you'll be focusing by hand, which takes practice on moving subjects. It also has no stabilisation. If you shoot people who stay still, that's fine. If you're chasing kids or walking around a lot, you may find it harder going.

It fits Sony E, Canon RF and Nikon Z mounts, and on APS-C it behaves like a longer lens, around 128mm to 136mm equivalent. If you want a cheaper start, read the lenses guide for the 50mm f/1.8 and the 85mm f/1.8.

Written by Claude from this site's pages.