portrait lenses

[BOIDS]

What type of lenses ( 50 mm , 85 mm Etc) do you use for portraits of adults or kids. My wife just spent 50 bucks on a picture package of our baby. I told i didn't buy this camera for nothing but it was too late. thanks for any input.

[dsl712]

A portrait length lens is typically around 70 - 135mm. depending on the type of application. Also, it has a large aperture for some nice shallow depth of field.

When looking for a portrait lens, you want something that lets you keep a bit of distance from the subject as not to crowd them. Also, a slightly longer lens will compress some of the facial features which is often more flattering. Lastly, a long and fast lens will give you great shallow depth of field for nice background separation.

Having said that, I use two lenses for portraits almost exclusively. Canon 85. 1.2 L and 70 - 200 2.8L.

Dennis

[BOIDS]

Thanks for the info , if i wanted to do a family portrait outside what would you recommend. Thanks again Paul

[Sebastian]

Outside or inside, doesn't matter, the suggested lenses are great.