Here's a breakdown of why and why not:
Arguments for needing a 70-200mm lens for portraits:
* Compression: This is the most frequently cited reason. The longer focal length creates a compressed perspective, making the background appear closer to the subject. This is generally considered flattering for portraits as it tends to minimize features like the nose and chin, and can create a more intimate feel. It helps to separate the subject from the background.
* Working Distance: Allows you to photograph subjects from a greater distance, which can be beneficial for:
* Candid Shots: You can capture more natural expressions without your subject feeling self-conscious.
* Unobtrusive Shooting: Ideal for events or situations where you don't want to be right in the subject's face.
* Background Control: Gives you more flexibility to choose backgrounds and compositions. You can use distance to your advantage to blur out distracting elements in the background.
* Bokeh: The 70-200mm lenses, especially the f/2.8 versions, are known for their beautiful, creamy bokeh (background blur). This further isolates the subject and creates a professional, pleasing aesthetic.
* Versatility: While primarily used for portraits, the 70-200mm is also excellent for:
* Sports and Action: Great for capturing dynamic moments.
* Wildlife: Provides enough reach for many wildlife subjects.
* Landscapes: Can be used to compress landscape features and create unique compositions.
* Image Quality: High-end 70-200mm lenses are typically built with high-quality optics, resulting in sharp images with good color rendition and contrast.
* Subject Comfort: Some people feel uncomfortable having a photographer so close to them. A longer lens creates physical space and may make subjects feel more relaxed.
Arguments against needing a 70-200mm lens for portraits:
* Cost: High-quality 70-200mm lenses, particularly those with a fast aperture (f/2.8), are expensive. This can be a significant investment, especially for beginners.
* Size and Weight: These lenses are large and heavy, which can be a burden for long shoots or travel. This can also make them less discreet for street photography or candid portraits.
* Limited Use Indoors/Small Spaces: The long focal length can be restrictive in small studios or indoor locations. You might not have enough room to properly frame your subject.
* Not Necessary for All Portrait Styles: You can absolutely create beautiful portraits with other lenses. 50mm, 35mm, and 85mm lenses are also popular choices, especially for environmental portraits or capturing a wider field of view.
* Alternatives Exist:
* 85mm Lens: Often considered the "portrait prime," it offers excellent image quality, bokeh, and a flattering perspective at a much lower cost and weight.
* 50mm Lens: Versatile and affordable, good for environmental portraits and full-body shots.
* Zoom Lenses in General: Many zoom lenses exist that cover a similar focal length range but may not have the same aperture or build quality. They can still be a viable option if you're on a budget.
Conclusion:
A 70-200mm lens is a powerful and versatile tool for portrait photography, offering compression, working distance, beautiful bokeh, and high image quality. However, it's not an absolute necessity. You can achieve excellent results with other lenses, especially if you are just starting out, or if you have a different style of portraiture. Consider your budget, the types of portraits you want to shoot, and your shooting environment when making your decision. Many photographers start with a good 50mm or 85mm lens and add a 70-200mm later in their career.
Ultimately, the best lens is the one that helps you achieve your artistic vision and fits your shooting style and budget. Try renting a 70-200mm lens for a weekend to see if it fits your workflow before committing to a purchase.