Here's a breakdown of the arguments for and against, along with factors to consider:
Why a 70-200mm lens is GREAT for Portrait Photography:
* Compression: This is arguably the biggest advantage. Longer focal lengths (like those in the 70-200mm range) compress perspective. This means they make the background appear closer to the subject, which can be very flattering. It can also make distracting backgrounds less noticeable.
* Subject Isolation: The compression effect and shallow depth of field achievable with longer focal lengths help to isolate the subject from the background, creating a more visually appealing and professional look.
* Working Distance: You can maintain a comfortable distance from your subject, which is important for putting them at ease and capturing more natural expressions. You're not "in their face" like you might be with a shorter lens.
* Versatility: While primarily known for portraits, a 70-200mm lens is also excellent for action shots, events, and even some landscape photography, making it a good all-around investment.
* Shallow Depth of Field: Especially when paired with a wide aperture (like f/2.8), it excels at creating beautiful background blur (bokeh), further emphasizing the subject.
* Professional Look: Clients often associate longer lenses with professional photographers. While image quality is paramount, having professional-looking gear can inspire confidence.
Why You Might NOT Need a 70-200mm Lens:
* Cost: Good 70-200mm lenses are expensive. A high-quality version, especially those with a constant aperture of f/2.8, can be a significant investment.
* Size and Weight: They are large and heavy, which can be a burden if you're shooting for long periods or traveling. This can also make it less ideal for candid or street-style portraits where discretion is needed.
* Space Requirements: You need sufficient space to use a 70-200mm lens effectively. It's less practical for small studios or indoor settings with limited room to move back.
* Alternatives Exist: You can achieve excellent portrait results with other lenses, such as:
* 50mm lens: Versatile, affordable, and good in low light. Requires getting closer to the subject.
* 85mm lens: A popular and well-regarded portrait lens, often seen as a sweet spot between 50mm and 70-200mm. Offers good subject isolation and background blur.
* Zoom lenses in the 24-70mm range: Can work well for portraits, especially if you're shooting environmental portraits or want to include more of the surroundings.
Factors to Consider When Deciding:
* Your Portrait Style:
* Studio portraits: A 70-200mm can be fantastic for studio work if you have the space.
* Environmental portraits: A wider lens (like a 35mm or 50mm) might be more suitable for capturing the subject in their environment.
* Headshots: An 85mm or 70-135mm range on a zoom can work well.
* Candid/Lifestyle portraits: A shorter, lighter lens might be preferable for capturing spontaneous moments.
* Your Budget: If you're on a tight budget, a prime lens like an 85mm f/1.8 or 50mm f/1.8 will provide excellent quality at a fraction of the cost of a 70-200mm.
* Your Shooting Environment: Consider the space you typically work in. If you shoot primarily in small studios or homes, a 70-200mm may not be the best choice.
* Your Camera System: If you're shooting on a crop sensor (APS-C) camera, the crop factor will effectively increase the focal length of your lens. For example, a 50mm lens on a crop sensor camera will have a similar field of view to a 75mm lens on a full-frame camera. This can influence your lens choices.
* Your Physical Comfort: Are you comfortable carrying a heavy lens for extended periods?
Conclusion:
A 70-200mm lens is a valuable tool for portrait photographers, offering compression, subject isolation, and versatility. However, it's not a necessity. Consider your budget, shooting style, environment, and personal preferences when making your decision. If you can afford it and it aligns with your style, it's a great investment. But don't feel pressured to buy one if other lenses are a better fit for your needs.
Recommendation:
If you're unsure, consider renting a 70-200mm lens for a weekend to see if it suits your style and workflow. This will allow you to experience the lens firsthand and make a more informed decision. Also, try shooting with an 85mm prime if you haven't. It often provides a good balance between cost, size, and image quality for portrait work.