If you’re interested in portrait photography, choosing the right lens is crucial. The best lenses for portrait photography can make a big difference in the quality of your shots. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced photographer, understanding how different lenses work can help you capture stunning portraits. In this post, we’ll go over some of the best lenses to use for portrait photography and explain what makes them ideal for creating sharp, beautiful images.
Understanding What Makes a Great Portrait Lens
Portrait photography focuses on capturing the personality and mood of a subject. To do this, you need a lens that allows you to get close to your subject and highlights their features while keeping the background soft.

1. Focal Length
The focal length of a lens plays a huge role in portrait photography. Lenses with a longer focal length allow you to stand farther away from your subject, while lenses with a shorter focal length bring you closer. Lenses in the range of 50mm to 135mm are commonly used for portraits.
2. Aperture
A wide aperture (small f-number) is perfect for portrait photography because it creates a shallow depth of field. This blurs the background and makes your subject stand out. Lenses with apertures like f/1.8, f/1.4, or f/2.8 are ideal for creating beautiful bokeh effects.
Top Lenses for Portrait Photography
Now that you understand the basics of a good portrait lens, let’s look at some of the best options available.
1. Canon 50mm f/1.8 STM
The Canon 50mm f/1.8 STM lens is one of the best lenses for portrait photography, especially for beginners. It’s affordable, sharp, and lightweight. The f/1.8 aperture creates a beautiful background blur, and the 50mm focal length is perfect for close-up portraits. It works well in low light and produces sharp, clear images.
2. Nikon 85mm f/1.4G
The Nikon 85mm f/1.4G lens is another excellent choice for portrait photography. With an 85mm focal length, this lens allows you to take portraits from a comfortable distance, without crowding your subject. The f/1.4 aperture is perfect for creating a soft, blurred background, which helps your subject stand out. This lens is a bit more expensive but offers outstanding image quality and performance.
Best Lenses for Different Types of Portraits
Portrait photography can vary based on the type of portrait you are shooting. Whether you’re capturing headshots, full-body portraits, or environmental portraits, the right lens will make your job easier.
1. 24-70mm f/2.8 Lens for Versatility
The 24-70mm f/2.8 lens is a versatile zoom lens that’s ideal for portrait photographers who want flexibility. With a zoom range from 24mm to 70mm, it allows you to take wide-angle shots, environmental portraits, or close-up headshots without switching lenses. The f/2.8 aperture provides enough background blur while keeping your subject sharp. This lens is great for photographers who need to adapt to different shooting situations quickly.
2. 135mm f/2L for Stunning Bokeh
The Canon 135mm f/2L lens is a fantastic option if you want to create portraits with amazing bokeh. The long focal length allows you to stand farther away from your subject, which can help make them feel more relaxed. The f/2 aperture ensures a beautifully blurred background, making your subject the main focus of the image. This lens is perfect for outdoor portrait shoots and studio work.
How to Choose the Right Lens for Your Portrait Photography
When choosing the best lens for portrait photography, you should consider a few important factors. These will help you decide what works best for your style and needs.
1. Budget
There are great portrait lenses available at all price points. If you’re on a budget, the 50mm f/1.8 lens is a great option. It’s affordable yet still provides beautiful results. On the other hand, if you have more room in your budget, lenses like the Nikon 85mm f/1.4G or Canon 135mm f/2L offer professional-quality images and more features.
2. Camera Compatibility
Make sure the lens you choose is compatible with your camera body. Different camera brands, like Canon, Nikon, and Sony, have different lens mounts. Check the specifications of your camera and lens before making a purchase.
3. Style of Portraits
Think about the style of portrait photography you enjoy. If you like taking close-up headshots, a 50mm or 85mm lens might be perfect. If you prefer full-body or environmental portraits, a 24-70mm lens will give you more flexibility. Each lens has its advantages depending on your shooting style.
Final Thoughts
The best lenses for portrait photography can transform the way you take pictures. With the right lens, you can capture beautiful, sharp portraits and create stunning bokeh effects that highlight your subject. Whether you’re a beginner or a professional, there are lenses that fit your budget and needs. Start with a 50mm f/1.8 for affordable and high-quality shots, or invest in an 85mm f/1.4 for professional portrait results. Remember, the lens you choose should match your personal style and the types of portraits you like to shoot. Happy shooting!