Here's a breakdown of why it's considered a valuable lens, its pros and cons, and alternative options:
Why the 70-200mm is popular for portrait photography:
* Compression: This is arguably the biggest reason. Longer focal lengths, like those offered by the 70-200mm, create a pleasing compression that makes facial features look more flattering. They minimize perspective distortion, preventing noses from looking overly prominent or other facial features from seeming exaggerated.
* Background Blur (Bokeh): Wide apertures (typically f/2.8 or f/4 on 70-200mm lenses) create a beautiful, soft, and creamy background blur that helps isolate the subject and draw attention to them.
* Working Distance: The 70-200mm allows you to stand further back from your subject. This can make them feel more relaxed and natural, leading to more authentic expressions. It also allows you to shoot in environments where you might not have the space to work with a shorter lens.
* Versatility: While primarily used for portraits, a 70-200mm is also excellent for events, sports, and wildlife photography, making it a multi-purpose investment.
* Sharpness: High-quality 70-200mm lenses are known for their sharpness, delivering incredibly detailed images.
Cons of the 70-200mm lens for portraits:
* Size and Weight: These lenses are large and heavy. This can be tiring, especially during longer shoots, and can make them less suitable for travel or candid street portraits.
* Cost: Good quality 70-200mm lenses are expensive. The f/2.8 versions, known for their exceptional low-light performance and bokeh, are particularly pricey.
* Intimacy: The distance created by the long focal length can sometimes make it harder to connect with your subject. It can feel less personal than working with a shorter lens.
* Space Requirements: You need space to use it effectively. In a small studio or crowded location, it might not be practical.
* Less Creative Cropping: The compression effect is already built-in, reducing the amount of "re-framing" you can do in post without making the image look odd.
Alternatives to the 70-200mm for portraits:
* 50mm Lens: A "nifty fifty" is an incredibly versatile and affordable option. Great for portraits with a more natural perspective, especially environmental portraits. Requires you to get closer to your subject.
* 85mm Lens: Often considered *the* classic portrait lens. It offers a good balance between compression and working distance, creating flattering portraits with a pleasing bokeh. Many portrait photographers would consider this the better single prime lens to own.
* 100mm/135mm Lens: Great for headshots and tighter portraits, offering even more compression and background blur than the 85mm. Excellent for isolating the subject.
* Zoom Lenses (24-70mm, 24-105mm): These offer more flexibility in terms of focal length and can be a good choice if you need a versatile lens for various types of photography. However, they generally don't offer the same level of compression or background blur as a dedicated 70-200mm or prime lens.
Do *you* need a 70-200mm? Ask yourself these questions:
* What is your portrait style? Do you prefer tight headshots, full-body portraits, or environmental portraits? The 70-200mm excels at tighter portraits and full-body shots where compression is desirable.
* What is your budget? If you're on a tight budget, a 50mm or 85mm prime lens might be a better starting point.
* What kind of space do you typically work in? If you shoot primarily in small studios or crowded locations, the 70-200mm might not be practical.
* Do you shoot other types of photography besides portraits? If so, a 70-200mm might be a worthwhile investment for its versatility.
* Do you value background blur and subject isolation? If yes, the 70-200mm will deliver excellent results.
* How important is portability? If you prioritize a lightweight and compact setup, other options might be more suitable.
In conclusion:
The 70-200mm is a fantastic lens for portrait photography, offering excellent compression, beautiful bokeh, and versatility. However, it's not a necessity for all portrait photographers. Consider your shooting style, budget, and needs carefully before making a decision. A 50mm or 85mm prime lens might be a better starting point, or even a better *end point,* depending on your specific needs. Rent one and test it out before committing to a purchase!