Choosing the Perfect Portrait Lens: A Guide to Features and Specifications for Stunning Portraiture
/The best lenses for portrait photography depend on various factors, including your camera system, personal preferences, and the specific type of portraits you want to capture. Here are some popular choices that are often recommended for portrait photography and are my favorites to use with brand photoshoots.
50mm f/1.8 (f/1.4 or f1.2): A 50mm prime lens is a versatile choice for portraits. The wide aperture (f/1.8 or wider) allows for beautiful background blur (bokeh) and works well in low-light conditions. It's also a relatively affordable option.
85mm f/1.4 (or f/1.8): An 85mm lens is a classic portrait choice. The longer focal length provides a flattering perspective, compressing facial features and creating a pleasing background blur. The wide aperture is excellent for isolating subjects.
These are the two lenses I use when photographing any type of portrait.
Other popular options are:
24-70mm f/2.8: A zoom lens like the 24-70mm f/2.8 is versatile for various types of portraits. It offers flexibility in framing and can be used for both wider environmental portraits and closer headshots.
70-200mm f/2.8: This telephoto zoom lens is great for capturing portraits with a more compressed background. It's particularly useful for outdoor portraits or situations where you can't get physically close to your subject.
35mm f/1.8 (f1.4 or f1.2): A 35mm lens is another excellent choice for portrait photography, especially if you prefer a wider perspective or if you're shooting in confined spaces. The wider field of view allows you to tell more of a story in your portraits. It's suitable for lifestyle and candid shots where the context of the surroundings is essential.
Remember that the best lens for you depends on your shooting style, the type of portraits you want to capture, and your budget. If possible, try out different lenses to see which one suits your preferences and needs the best.
