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DPChallenge Forums >> Hardware and Software >> Need help with a lens purchase.
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Showing posts 1 - 8 of 8, (reverse)
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07/31/2009 10:42:31 AM · #1
Hi all, I'm looking for a Canon lens that would be great for portrait shots. I've heard that the 24-105L is good, but am not quite sure on what the best option would be.

Th
07/31/2009 10:57:47 AM · #2
That one's only F4. You might be better served by the 24-70 L which is f2.8. Also, the 100mm macro f2.8 would make for a good portrait lens as would the 85mm 1.2(?).
07/31/2009 11:01:07 AM · #3
Thanks for the response. Much appreciated. Will definately be checking these out.
07/31/2009 11:05:34 AM · #4
With the smaller sensor (1.6 crop) as well, I have the Canon EF 50/1.4 and it is great. You have to use your feet a bit more because it is a prime, but it is compact, sharp, and relatively cheap...
07/31/2009 11:05:51 AM · #5
The 50mm F1.4 is a popular portrait lens that goes for about $350.
07/31/2009 11:15:48 AM · #6
What is the difference in sharpness btw the 55mm f1.4 and the 85mm f1.8? Any ideas as to which is the better lens for portraits?
? Any ideas as to which is the better lens for portraits?

Message edited by author 2009-07-31 11:18:51.
07/31/2009 02:27:27 PM · #7
Originally posted by garretht:

What is the difference in sharpness btw the 55mm f1.4 and the 85mm f1.8? Any ideas as to which is the better lens for portraits?
? Any ideas as to which is the better lens for portraits?


The difference in sharpness at equivalent f-stop between these lenses is "not much at all." Which lens is better for you depends on whether you have room to use the 85. On your camera it's like shooting with a 135mm on full frame, so shooting full body portraits in a small studio would be difficult or impossible. The 50mm, OTOH, is like an 80mm on FF, so more manageable in tight spaces.
Personally, where possible, I will use longer focal lengths. I shoot with a full frame camera, and often use 135mm to 200mm. There's really no focal length that's "too long" if you can frame and get the shot. But using too short a focal length can be very unflattering to the subject. That's usually only a problem below 50mm on FF (below 30mm on a 1.6-crop camera).
08/01/2009 06:11:42 AM · #8
Thanks all so much for the insight. I really appreciate all the help and tips.
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