Here's a breakdown to help you decide:
Arguments for needing a 70-200mm lens for portraits:
* Compression: This is the most-cited reason. Longer focal lengths like those in the 70-200mm range offer pleasing facial compression. They minimize distortion and make features appear more balanced and flattering. Shorter focal lengths can exaggerate features like the nose.
* Background Blur (Bokeh): Longer focal lengths, especially when combined with a wide aperture (e.g., f/2.8), create a beautiful, creamy background blur that isolates your subject and minimizes distractions. This is highly sought after in portrait photography.
* Working Distance: It allows you to stand further away from your subject, which can make them feel more comfortable and natural. This is particularly helpful with shy subjects or children.
* Versatility: A 70-200mm can be used for headshots, waist-up portraits, full-body shots, and even some event photography. It's a flexible lens.
* Zoom Capabilities: Being able to zoom from 70mm to 200mm provides framing flexibility without having to physically move. This is useful in dynamic shooting situations.
* Professional Look: The results you get from a 70-200mm often have a distinct professional look and feel due to the compression and background separation.
Arguments against needing a 70-200mm lens for portraits:
* Cost: 70-200mm lenses, particularly those with fast apertures like f/2.8, are generally expensive. This can be a significant barrier to entry.
* Size and Weight: These lenses are large and heavy. This can make them cumbersome to carry around for extended periods or in tight spaces.
* Space Requirements: You need a good amount of space to use a 70-200mm effectively. In small studios or confined locations, you might not be able to stand far enough away to get the shot you want.
* Alternatives Exist: Other lenses can achieve similar results, albeit with some compromises:
* 50mm: A 50mm lens is a popular and affordable option. While it doesn't offer the same compression as a 70-200mm, you can still create beautiful portraits, especially with a wide aperture. You'll need to get closer to your subject, though.
* 85mm: An 85mm lens is often considered an excellent alternative to a 70-200mm for portraits. It offers a good balance of compression, background blur, and working distance. It's also usually smaller and lighter than a 70-200mm.
* Primes in General: Prime lenses (fixed focal length) often offer superior image quality compared to zoom lenses at the same price point. You might choose a series of primes (e.g., 35mm, 50mm, 85mm) to cover a range of focal lengths.
* Shooting Style: If you prefer environmental portraits where the background is an important part of the image, a wider lens (e.g., 35mm or 50mm) might be a better choice.
* Not Ideal for Close-Up Detail: While excellent for general portraits, for extreme close-ups of eyes, lips, etc. a dedicated macro lens would be much better.
So, do *you* need a 70-200mm? Ask yourself these questions:
* What is your budget?
* What is your preferred portrait style? (e.g., classic headshots, environmental portraits, full-body shots)
* Where do you typically shoot? (e.g., studio, outdoors, clients' homes)
* How important is background blur to you?
* How much do you value subject comfort and working distance?
* Are you comfortable carrying a large, heavy lens?
* What lenses do you already own?
* Can you rent a 70-200mm to try it out before buying? This is *highly* recommended.
Conclusion:
A 70-200mm lens is a powerful tool for portrait photography and is often a great investment for serious portrait photographers. It offers excellent compression, background blur, and working distance. However, it's not *absolutely essential*. You can achieve excellent results with other lenses, especially if you're just starting out or if your budget is limited. Consider your needs, shooting style, and budget carefully before making a decision. Trying out different focal lengths is the best way to find what works best for *you*.