Are you looking to take your portrait photography skills to the next level? If so, you may wonder what the best focal length is for portraits.
In this blog post, we will explore the different focal lengths and how they can be used to create stunning portraits.
We’ll also provide some tips on choosing the right focal length for your specific situation.
So, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced photographer, this blog post is sure to help you improve your portrait photography skills!
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What is the Best Focal Length for Portrait Photography?
You can technically use any lens for portraits; however, most professional portrait photographers use focal lengths of 50mm or 85mm.
This is because these focal lengths help create flattering and natural-looking images while producing beautiful background blur, also known as bokeh.
So, while this may be what many professional portrait photographers use, there are other factors you should consider when choosing a focal length for portrait photography.
3 Factors That Affect Focal Length for Portraits
Regarding portrait photography, there is no one-size-fits-all answer for the best focal length.
The focal length you choose will depend on a number of factors, including the size of your subject, the distance between you and your subject, and the look you are going for in your portraits.
1. Size of the Subject
The most important factor to consider when choosing a focal length for portraits is the size of your subject.
If you are photographing a very large person, for example, you will likely want to use a longer focal length in order to capture more detail and fill more of the frame with your subject.
On the other hand, if you photograph a small child or pet, using a shorter focal length can help you capture more of the surrounding environment and give your portrait a more natural and candid feel.
2. Distance Between You and Your Subject
Another important factor to consider when choosing a focal length for portraits is the distance between you and your subject.
If you are very close to your subject, using a longer focal length will allow you to fill the frame with your subject and avoid capturing too much of the background.
On the other hand, if you are further away from your subject, using a shorter focal length will help you capture more of the background and give your portrait a more environmental feel.
But let’s also say that you are photographing in a very small room, but you want to use the 85mm. Well, it might be hard to back up all the way without hitting a wall.
So, when choosing a focal length for portraits, it’s also important to take note of where your portrait session will be taking place. Will it be in a wide open space for you to back up?
Or will it be in a small, confined environment that may only allow you to photograph with a 50mm?
3. The Look You Are Going For
Finally, the look you want in your portraits will also influence your choice of focal length.
For example, a longer focal length will give your portraits a more dramatic and flattering look. However, if you are looking for a more candid and natural feel, you may want to opt for a shorter focal length instead.
So, whether you’re just starting with portrait photography or are an experienced professional, there is no one “right” focal length for portrait photography.
The best focal length for portraits will depend on a number of factors, including the size of your subject, the distance between you and your subject, and the look you are going for in your portraits.
Considering these factors, you can choose the best focal length for your specific photography situation and create stunning portraits.
Which is Better for Portraits 50mm or 85mm?
Now that we’ve gone over the three main factors that affect focal length for portraits, you may be wondering which is better for portrait photography, 50mm or 85mm?
The answer to this question really depends on your personal photography style and the look you want in your portraits.
If you want to create more dramatic and flattering images, an 85mm lens will give you the best results. However, if you want a more candid and natural feel, using a 50mm lens may be a better option.
I prefer the 50mm lens over the 85mm because it lets me get close to my subjects and converse with them during their session, which helps them feel more comfortable and at ease, resulting in better final images.
What Focal Length is the Most Flattering?
The most flattering focal length for portraits is typically between 50mm and 85mm.
This range of focal lengths allows you to fill the frame with your subject while keeping them in proportion to their surroundings.
In addition, using a longer focal length will result in a more compressed perspective, which can help minimize imperfections and make your subject appear more flattering.
So, if you want to create the most flattering portraits possible, your best bet is to use a focal length between 50mm and 85mm.
What is the Best Focal Length for Environmental Portraits?
If you want to capture more of the background environment in your portraits, using a shorter focal length is your best bet.
For environmental portraits, I typically recommend using a focal length between 35mm and 50mm.
This range of focal lengths allows you to capture more of the background while still keeping your subject in frame. Using a shorter focal length can also help give your portraits a more natural feel.
So, if you want to create stunning environmental portraits, a shorter focal length is the way to go.
But be sure to keep your subject in proportion with their surroundings and avoid distracting background elements that may diminish your subject’s impact.
Final Remarks
In conclusion, there is no one “right” focal length for portrait photography. The best focal length will depend on several factors, including the size of your subject, the distance between you and your subject, and the look you are going for in your portraits.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best focal length for your specific situation and create stunning portraits.
This article is a part of our Portrait Photography Hub, so be sure to check that out for more portrait photography tips!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 50mm or 85mm better for portraits?
The 50mm and 85mm lenses are excellent choices for portraits, but they offer slightly different perspectives. The 50mm lens is more versatile and suitable for a wider range of portrait styles and shooting situations, while the 85mm lens provides more compression and background separation, resulting in a more flattering and intimate look. The choice ultimately depends on your personal preference, shooting style, and the desired aesthetic for your portraits.
Can a 35mm focal length be used for portraits?
Yes, a 35mm focal length can be used for portraits. While it captures a wider perspective than traditional portrait lenses, it allows you to include more of the surroundings and context in your portraits, making it suitable for environmental or storytelling portraits. However, it may require you to get closer to your subject to maintain a desirable level of intimacy.
Nate Torres, with over seven years of professional photography experience, founded Imaginated, an educational platform designed to teach photography enthusiasts. Nate Torres is also a professional portrait and headshot photographer in the Orange County and Los Angeles areas. He specializes in portraits of individuals, couples, groups and headshots. Nate Torres is also a photography writer and content creator and educates other photographers on exposure, photography composition, photography editing, photography gear, and photography business. You can find his content on his personal website, social media, and YouTube Channel, as well as on blogs such as Fstoppers, Photofocus, and SLR Lounge.
