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watch BEFORE you buy portrait lenses for CROPPED or full frame cameras!

english flash photography posing + portraits
canon portrait lenses

Hey there, fellow photography enthusiasts! Today, I want to share some essential insights with you about choosing the right portrait lenses for your camera. I'll be speaking from my own experience as a photographer who's constantly on the hunt for the perfect gear setup.

First things first, I want to emphasize that your choice of lens can make or break your portrait session. Whether you're shooting with a high-end camera or something more budget-friendly, the lens you pick plays a critical role in achieving stunning results. But before you hit that "buy" button, there are some crucial factors to consider.

Let's start with the camera. In my case, I'm currently using the Canon R7. It's a newer camera that doesn't break the bank, yet it produces beautiful quality images. Of course, you can choose any camera that suits your budget and needs. Options like the Canon R5, Canon R10, or the trusty Canon 5D Mark II are all great choices. The key is to pick what you're comfortable with.

Now, let's dive into the lens selection, which is where the magic happens. If I were to bring only one lens to a portrait session, I'd go with a 50mm lens. It's a versatile choice, whether it's the budget-friendly RF 50mm 1.8 or the premium RF 50mm 1.2 L Series glass from Canon. The choice between them comes down to your budget and specific needs, but the 50mm focal length is a winner in my book.

But what if you're using a cropped sensor camera? In that case, a 50mm might be a bit too tight for generic portrait sessions where you want a mix of close-ups and wider shots. Here, I recommend the Canon RF 35mm 1.8 lens if you're on a budget. It's a versatile option that won't break the bank.

However, if you're willing to invest more, consider the Canon RF 28-70mm F2 lens. This lens is a game-changer, providing flexibility and incredible image quality. But it comes with a higher price tag, so be prepared for that.

 

Now, before we move on, let's talk about one more essential piece of gear: the reflector. Even in a minimalistic gear setup, a reflector can make a significant difference in your portrait shots. I personally love the Adorama glow five-in-one 42-inch reflector for its versatility. But if you're flying solo without an assistant, the Manfrotto Tri-Grip is a fantastic option. It allows you to hold the reflector while shooting, ensuring you get the perfect lighting.

So there you have it – my minimalistic gear setup for a portrait session. It's all about making smart choices based on your camera and budget. Remember, gear is important, but your skills and creativity matter most.

Before you go, I'd love to hear your thoughts. What do you consider the bare minimum for a portrait session? Share your thoughts in the comments below. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and ring that bell to stay updated with my photography tips and tutorials. Thanks for joining me today, and I'll see you in the next video. Happy shooting!

 
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Vanessa has been photographing weddings, events, portraits and lifestyle for over 20 years.

She's a Canon Explorer of Light, an honor given to only 5 photographers in the United States, and her work has been published by Yahoo! News, Grace Ormonde, Style Me Pretty, Rangefinder and more.

With her practical and open-book style of teaching, she shares everything she knows with hundreds of thousands of photographers as an educator and influential sparker.

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