Here's a breakdown of the arguments for and against a 70-200mm for portrait photography:
Arguments FOR the 70-200mm:
* Compression and Background Blur (Bokeh): This is the biggest selling point. The longer focal lengths (especially at 200mm) compress the subject's features, leading to more flattering portraits and a reduction in distortion. The wide aperture (typically f/2.8 or f/4) allows for a shallow depth of field, creating beautiful background blur that isolates the subject.
* Distance and Comfort: The 70-200mm allows you to maintain a comfortable distance from your subject. This can be less intimidating for the model, especially those who are shy or inexperienced. It also allows you to shoot in situations where you can't get physically closer, such as at events or when shooting wildlife portraits.
* Versatility: While it excels at portraits, the 70-200mm is also useful for a variety of other photographic genres, including:
* Sports
* Wildlife
* Events
* Landscapes (compressing distant features)
* Zoom Range: The zoom range offers flexibility. You can quickly switch from a tighter headshot (200mm) to a wider waist-up shot (70mm) without changing lenses.
* Sharpness: High-end 70-200mm lenses are known for their exceptional sharpness.
* Image Stabilization (IS/VR/OS): Many 70-200mm lenses have image stabilization, which is crucial for shooting handheld, especially at longer focal lengths in lower light.
Arguments AGAINST the 70-200mm:
* Price: A good 70-200mm lens is a significant investment. Even the f/4 versions can be expensive, and the f/2.8 versions can be extremely costly.
* Size and Weight: These lenses are large and heavy. Carrying them around for extended periods can be tiring. This can be a deterrent for some photographers.
* Intimidation Factor: While distance can be a plus, the size of the lens itself can be intimidating to some subjects.
* Can be limiting in tight spaces: Indoor shoots or small studios can be difficult with such a long lens.
* Not Always the Best Choice for Environmental Portraits: If you want to capture a lot of the environment around your subject, a wider lens might be a better choice.
* Other Great Portrait Options Exist: There are other lenses that can achieve beautiful portraits, often at a lower cost and with smaller size/weight.
Alternatives to the 70-200mm:
* 50mm Lens: A "nifty fifty" is a classic portrait lens. It's affordable, compact, fast (often f/1.8 or f/1.4), and produces excellent image quality. The downside is you need to get closer to your subject.
* 85mm Lens: Considered by many to be the perfect portrait focal length. It provides excellent subject isolation and background blur while still allowing you to communicate easily with your subject. Can be a bit expensive and may be too long in smaller spaces.
* 35mm Lens: Great for environmental portraits, allowing you to tell a story with the surroundings. Requires you to get close to your subject.
* Zoom Lenses (e.g., 24-70mm, 24-105mm): These can offer a wider range of focal lengths, but they may not have the same level of background blur as a 70-200mm or a fast prime lens.
* Specialty Lenses: Tilt-shift lenses can be used for creative portrait effects, but they have a steep learning curve.
Who REALLY Needs a 70-200mm?
* Professional Portrait Photographers: If you're a professional, the 70-200mm's versatility, image quality, and ability to create stunning background blur make it a worthwhile investment.
* Photographers Who Shoot a Variety of Subjects: If you shoot portraits, sports, wildlife, and events, the 70-200mm is a great all-around lens.
* Photographers Who Frequently Shoot Outdoors: The 70-200mm's reach is especially useful for outdoor portraits, where you may not be able to control your environment.
* Photographers Who Prioritize Background Blur and Subject Isolation: If you love creating portraits with a strong sense of depth and separation, the 70-200mm is hard to beat.
Who Might Not Need a 70-200mm (or could wait)?
* Beginner Portrait Photographers: Start with a less expensive lens like a 50mm or 85mm. Learn the fundamentals of portrait photography before investing in a 70-200mm.
* Photographers Who Primarily Shoot Indoors: The 70-200mm might be too long for small studios or homes.
* Photographers on a Budget: There are other lenses that offer excellent image quality at a lower price.
* Photographers Who Prefer Environmental Portraits: A wider lens might be a better choice.
In conclusion: The 70-200mm is a fantastic lens for portrait photography, but it's not a necessity. Consider your budget, shooting style, and the types of portraits you want to create before making a decision. Try renting one before you buy it to see if it fits your needs and workflow. You might find that a different lens, or a combination of lenses, is a better fit for you.