Here's a breakdown of the pros, cons, and alternatives to help portrait photographers decide:
Arguments for a 70-200mm Lens:
* Beautiful Compression: This is the biggest reason many portrait photographers love the 70-200mm. It compresses the background, making it appear closer to the subject and creating a shallower depth of field for dreamy bokeh. It separates the subject from the background beautifully.
* Background Blur (Bokeh): Especially with a fast aperture (f/2.8 or even f/4), a 70-200mm can create stunningly blurred backgrounds, isolating your subject and adding a professional touch.
* Working Distance: The longer focal length allows you to stand further back from your subject, which can be more comfortable for both you and them. This can be particularly helpful for shy subjects, candid shots, or when shooting in crowded environments.
* Versatility: While primarily known for portraits, a 70-200mm can also be used for other types of photography, such as sports, wildlife, and events.
* Zoom Capability: The zoom range allows you to easily adjust your composition without having to physically move closer or further away. This is great for quick adjustments and capturing different perspectives in the same location.
* Professional Look: A 70-200mm often carries a certain aesthetic and perceived professionalism, which can be a factor for some photographers when meeting with clients.
Arguments Against a 70-200mm Lens:
* Cost: High-quality 70-200mm lenses, especially those with fast apertures, are expensive. This can be a significant barrier for beginner or budget-conscious photographers. There are cheaper third-party options, but these might sacrifice image quality or autofocus performance.
* Size and Weight: 70-200mm lenses are large and heavy, making them less portable and potentially tiring to use for extended periods. This can be a disadvantage for on-location shoots or travel photography.
* Not Ideal for Tight Spaces: In small studios or indoor locations, the 70-200mm might be too long, forcing you to stand too far away from your subject.
* Overkill for Some Styles: If you primarily shoot environmental portraits or prefer a wider perspective, a 70-200mm might not be the best choice.
* Can Be Intimidating: Some subjects can feel intimidated by a large lens pointed at them, hindering their natural expression.
Alternatives to a 70-200mm Lens:
* 85mm Prime: Often considered a "portrait prime," the 85mm offers excellent image quality, fast apertures (f/1.8, f/1.4, f/1.2 are common), and a flattering focal length for portraits. They're usually smaller, lighter, and less expensive than a 70-200mm. The downside is the lack of zoom; you must move your feet to reframe.
* 50mm Prime: A versatile and affordable option, the 50mm can also be used for portraits, particularly on full-frame cameras. It provides a wider field of view than an 85mm, making it suitable for environmental portraits or capturing more of the surrounding environment. On a crop sensor camera, it often makes a great portrait lens.
* 35mm Prime: Good for environmental portraits that capture a sense of place. It's wider, so you'll see more of the environment around the subject, and may require some understanding of how to shoot at a wider angle while still focusing attention on the person.
* Mid-Range Zoom (e.g., 24-70mm or 24-105mm): These lenses offer a wider range of focal lengths, making them versatile for various types of photography, including portraits. While they might not offer the same level of compression or background blur as a 70-200mm, they can still produce excellent results.
* 135mm Prime: A "sweet spot" lens for many, offering a longer reach than the 85mm but not as bulky as the 70-200mm. Great for creating tight portraits and beautiful background separation.
Who *Definitely* Needs a 70-200mm:
* Professional portrait photographers: The versatility, compression, and bokeh capabilities make it an invaluable tool.
* Photographers who frequently shoot outdoor portraits in open spaces: The reach and background blur are especially beneficial.
* Event photographers who also want to capture portraits: The zoom range allows for quick adjustments and capturing different perspectives.
* Those who prioritize background compression and bokeh above all else.
Who Can Probably Do Without a 70-200mm (At Least Initially):
* Beginner portrait photographers: Start with a more affordable and versatile prime lens (like a 50mm or 85mm) to learn the basics of portraiture.
* Photographers who primarily shoot environmental portraits: A wider-angle lens (35mm or 50mm) might be a better choice.
* Those who frequently shoot in small studios or indoor locations: A shorter focal length lens might be more practical.
* Budget-conscious photographers: A prime lens can provide excellent image quality at a lower price point.
* Those who prioritize portability and travel light.
In Conclusion:
The 70-200mm is a fantastic lens for portrait photography, but it's not a necessity for everyone. Consider your budget, shooting style, typical shooting environments, and the look you're trying to achieve before making a decision. Experiment with different focal lengths to find what works best for you and your subjects. Renting a 70-200mm before buying is an excellent way to test it out. Good luck!