Practical options for next lens purchase.

[Al B]

I have a D90 and two lenses: 18-105mm 3.5-5.6 and 70-300mm 4.5-5.6. In respect to portraits, what type of lens might I want to consider for my next purchase?

 

[object88]

I have a D90 and two lenses: 18-105mm 3.5-5.6 and 70-300mm 4.5-5.6. In respect to portraits, what type of lens might I want to consider for my next purchase?

Off the top of my head, the $100 50mm prime.

 

[compuwar]

I have a D90 and two lenses: 18-105mm 3.5-5.6 and 70-300mm 4.5-5.6. In respect to portraits, what type of lens might I want to consider for my next purchase?

You have two lenses that cover the portrait range from full body to head only, I'd suggest lighting instead of a new lens.

Paul

 

[toxic]

You have two lenses that cover the portrait range from full body to head only, I'd suggest lighting instead of a new lens.

Paul

that.

well, actually, you could just use the 18-105 for all your portraits.

 

[gkarris]

Off the top of my head, the $100 50mm prime.

Agreed. One you can use in low light (f1.8 or less).

 

[pprior]

What level of portrait experience do you have?
Do you know how to light a portrait shot?
Do you own any off camera lighting?
Do you mean single subject portraits, full length, head and shoulders, groups?
Indoor/studio or outdoor?


The answers to these questions will point out that "portrait" photography is about the desired look. Perspective is probably the most important quality, but you have the right focal lengths covered already. You lack the ability to isolate the subject from the background as you have slow kit glass, but if you're shooting indoor/studio that won't matter because most strobe work is done F8 anyway.

Think more, it's not as simple as "what lens". If you have limited experience with potraits I wouldn't buy any glass at all - make sure you have lighting down first, even if it's some reflectors only.