50mm vs 85mm for portraits

[@wolfgangk1]

You're one of my favorite photography channels. You don't push gear--you know your shit and have a portfolio to back it up unlike 95% of the folks out there.

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Thank You!

[@MrDavidCymer]

You’re one of the most thoughtful and even-keeled photographers I have ran across. You substantiate your preferences without putting others’ down, and that’s rare these days. I’m like you, I use a Zeiss 55mm f1.8 for EVERYTHING. Portraits, landscapes, street, architecture, even some wildlife and astro. I love that it forces me to think creatively which often leads to unique and better results. Because of it, I’ve had a hard time deciding what other lens to add to my kit. There’s very little I can’t get away with. 😎

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Cool - I am a Zeiss fan for sure

[@michaels8597]

....well,people who have to constantly talk about others are already putting themselves down...Its just like this fake brand/format crap on YT.It's NOT real,it's NOT something one man says to another in person.Daniel and I live in the same place,NYC,and I am sure,neither one of us has even come across someone calling us a 'fanboy' or 'shill' in person.We live in a place where EVERYONE is,and we coexist,each and every day.We live basically on top of one another,and for the most part,we give each other mutual love/respect.ij NYC,we love to share ideas,love to talk about what,how,and when,and we like the many options.

[@AllCarsUnited]

This channel is a breath of fresh air

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Thank You!

[@wullieelliott9178]

Hi Daniel. I am an oldish dude who has been trying to get his pictures right for a couple of years now. I love your attitude and the way you simplify photographic issues for real people to understand. I hear a lot of photographers who keep saying that they are passionate about photography, but to be honest, they do not look as if they are enjoying it. You seem to enjoy what you are doing, and as such it is enjoyable to watch your videos. Being a relative newbie, I think the problem with a lot of photographers is that they feel we need the complicated version of photography, which only tends to turn people like myself off. So, many thanks for your approach Daniel and keep it up for us that appreciate your work.

[@JohnBerthoty]

Good stuff Daniel.

[@craigtravis6537]

Excellent! I'm only 6 years in and I built my gear selection around the received wisdom of youtube 'experts', but recently I've been questioning the mantra that telephoto lenses offer a "more flattering" perspective of human features... I've spent a lot of time reflecting on my work during lockdown and came to the same conclusions you have... Sold my 105mm f/1.4 and 70-200 f/2.8. Everything from now on will be 35, or 50 for a very closeup shot. You have a new subscriber. Thank you! You have a studio to chill in if you're ever in Manchester UK. 🙏

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Awesome! Thanks, I may take you up on that when this lockdown is over

[@Dev_KG]

I've discovered over the years that I "see in" 35mm -- my favorite lens (I actually have two copies bc it's so central to my work) is the Fuji GF 45 which is like a 35mm on FF. I even use it for a good portion of my portrait work. Also I find that it can be kinder to fuller faces and more normal-weight people than most models.

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

For sure! Also, that 45 is sweet

[@BikeVisionScotland]

I was always influenced by others to use 85mm - 135mm focal lengths when shooting portraits, but over the past year I have mainly used the 24-70mm and always found myself at 45-50mm range. The images feel more personal and natural for me at this focal range. Nice to have a choice in your bag though...

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

True

[@joshuagutierrez8407]

Over the years, I've gradually moved to shooting portraits with my 50. For sometime, I noticed my shots were around 105 - 135 but the compression really started to become apparent and when I switched to the 50 ( this may sound silly) my photos almost looked photoshopped onto the background. Aka - "Leica Pop" Now, I shoot on manual lenses around f2-f4 OLY OM adapted to my 1Ds. And I hundred percent agree, it's more intimate than being 10-20 feet back.

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Cool

[@FlyenNun1]

Yes would love to hear more about effects of lenses. TY Daniel for all the insight on subj connection is just as much as important than the technical side. 😊

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

🙌🏻🙌🏻

[@SatanSupimpa]

My main focal length for portraits is 75mm (AKA. a 50mm lens on my aps-c camera)

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Cool

[@SoloVagant]

Same here mate ......

[@ocubex]

Thanks for this, it's confirmed what I felt comparing my photos. I am finding out I don't really like the look of the 85 with my style of shooting. My favourite focal length tends to be between 45-65mm, I feel the 85 flattens the face too much.

[@hurleygreen927]

Great info... I have the nifty 50mm 1.8 on a Nikon D750 and it's Super all-around lens!

[@onegreenev]

Kudos, I really like that you actually read the KZbin responses and that you usually make an effort to reply.

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Thank You! Yes, it sometimes takes me a while, but I do try to respond in video form to subjects I thinks the community might be interested in

[@castieldiallo2945]

@@DanielNortonPhotographer daniel, if your female subject has a larger nose, which focal length would you recommend? I use at least 105mm.

[@MikeJamesMedia]

Having followed you for about 5 years now, I love your portrait results. If I thought the particular lens you used was vital, I'd look for that info after the fact. You make sensible choices, and I love your work. On a personal note: I rarely shoot portraits, but I always have one camera body in my bag with the 24-70mm (f/2.8) on it. As a matter of trivia, when I look at my photos sorted by "lens used", it turns out that most of my 24-70mm shooting ends up close to 50mm. I do a lot of landscapes and astrophotography, so naturally, I'm a bit "wide crazy". So, in addition to the 50mm f/1.8, I have the 14-24mm (f/2.8) zoom and the 20mm f/1.8, and love the results from both.

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Nice! And Thank You!

[@YehoashDream]

Daniel,you r such a rockstar!!!😎👍

[@WALKITOFFDavidSmith]

I shoot most of my headshots with the 85 but, admittedly, that's because I was always told that was the "preferred" focal length. Recently, I've shot with my Zeiss 55 really loved the results. Another lens that I feel is the most underrated portrait lens is the Canon 100mm Macro. What an outstanding lens! Love your videos Daniel. Please keep 'em coming and happy New Year!

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

I’ve Never been a fan of macro lenses for portraits, I feel like they’re too sharp. But I’m definitely in the minority there

[@WALKITOFFDavidSmith]

Daniel Norton Photographer I definitely agree. It’s crazy when you have to decrease clarity and sharpness on portraits. Lenses these days have gotten so damn good in general.

[@RobOnRefresh]

All fantastic points Daniel! I have my 85mm 1.4 on my camera about 90% of the time because I just really love the look. I can certainly understand the desire to be closer to your subject but I haven't found the 85mm length to be that limiting from a distance perspective but then again I'm not typically shooting full-length shots. For a 3/4 shot and above it is just fantastic. I have a few 50mm's but I just don't prefer the look that often. Love your honest and direct point of view!

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Cool

[@l10industries]

I completely agree with the definition and norm of a portrait becoming more wide. My girlfriend consistently prefers me to shoot with the 35 equivalent to 50 or 90. I think her and a lot of other people want the people to see them and the places they are going. The environment is just as important as the person in the picture. I think a lot of people now are also preferring pictures with full body shots to just headshots for portraits and having a wider lens enables that.

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Indeed

[@Fifthimagez]

As a new born photographer I only been at this for a week and I use a 50mm on my T7i I’m learning so much every day great video 😊

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Awesome

[@ningsun2]

Totally agree, especially portrait, it s like having a conversation with someone and building a relationship with him or her, and convey that same feeling to the viewers through your eye and lenses, it s up to you or the fashion editor who hired you for the shot , to decide what kind of feeling you want to convey, so you can chose your lenses. Best lens discuss i have seen so far.. thank you always Daniel!!

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Indeed

[@Narsuitus]

I like to use the 50mm lens on a full-frame camera for full-length portraits and 3/4 length portraits. I like to use 85mm or 90mm lenses for half-length and head & shoulder portraits.

[@ottienabors7275]

I like hearing about how and why you settled into "a style" and equipment you use that you to create a style. Like some of the comments below, I too use a DX camera. I started out shooting our family travels but with time I have become more conscious of the various genre of photography; such as landscape, street, wildlife, and portraits; which make up travel photography. That said, I acquired a 60mm/2.8 (90mm field of view) macro that is my "go to" portrait lens because it creates sharp images and is very versatile. My best long lens portrait story is about the headshot I made of a young lady I met in Costa Rica, who was taking some selfies in a rainforest reserve. When she saw my new D500 with 200-500mm; she asked if I was a photographer and if I would take her photo on her phone, which I did. In return I got to make her portrait with my D500 with the lens set at 200mm. When I reviewed the photo my jaw dropped! It was the best headshot portrait I ever made.

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Nice

[@ExplorationsbyRod]

I am just learning portrait photography, and you are an excellent teacher. I enjoy watching On Set and then trying to get similar results with lighting. Thanks

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Excellent, thank you

[@chriscote5374]

Excellent talk, Daniel. I do a lot of corporate headshots and in most cases I use an 85, which to me has a more formal look. It puts me about 6 or so feet from my subject which still facilitates an appropriate closeness. The 50 certainly gives the subject more visible depth and dimension, and to me yields a more familiar/approachable look to the subject, which has its place with certain people. Also, I can testify to the impact of the smartphone lens. The other day I had a client who wasn't liking how she looked in the shots where I was using the 85. She made the comment: "I take selfies and I'm used to being able to see myself so I can make the right face." I suspected that was part of it, but the wider focal length also occurred to me as a reason she liked her selfies better, so I switched to a 50mm which made enough of a difference to her and those are the photos she ended up liking.

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Nice.

[@robertbenton2804]

Now days we are lucky enough to get an instant preview of how the session is going. If a model needs more compression go 85mm and even to 200mm and simply see how that looks.

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

True

[@250GTOAJ]

I recently bought a 85mm1.8 Nikkor lens after many years of looking for one. I shoot portraits with my 5omm, and 100mm lenses. When shooting with my Spotmatic F Many Years ago i used my 100mm f4 macro lens for portraits. I am looking forward to doing some portraits with the 85 mm soon. My every day lens is an 18-200 which can also be handy for people shots. I had Mamiya 645 gear for a while the standard 80mm and the 150mm telephoto lenses were good for portrait and boudoir shots. As the line from the Disco tunes says. its not what you've got but how you use it. Thanks Daniel

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Cool 💃

[@michaelquelch1023]

Great video as always. I like Platon's wide portraits he uses the tools to enhance his style and also like yourself wants to treat the portrait shoot like a conversation.

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Ah yes

[@RayValdezPhotography]

I got a 105mm and I stopped using my 85, but I am thinking about going back to the 85mm. I get tired of standing too far back or just not having room in general to lengthier photos. I guess 105 is an odd length. I cant find many videos about it like an 85.

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

85 is certainly a very popular focal length, but 105 is also very common

[@1stfootprint_art]

Interesting... prioritizing communication with the model over lens focal length... I have recently got into using a slightly tighter or slightly wider than standard... 60mm and 43mm equivalent on an old pentax 645d...each gives a slightly different feel but allow me to work in my tiny studio... have a good week...

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Nice

[@HEATHERTITUS]

I'm going to start using my 50mm to see what it does verse my 85mm . This is been helpful. I like what you say about liking be close to your subject and interacting with them. I will focus more on that too.

[@j.fontaine2491]

Great, unconventional, well-reasoned video. Thank you!

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Thanks

[@grabtharandhishammer8251]

Cool video Daniel. My canon 50 1.2 is my go to for most of my photography.

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Nice lens for sure

[@JmartiStudio]

Hello, a question, I take all my photos with a 15-45mm Canon, and I can take photos like 50 and 85mm, you have all the lenses.

[@acestudioscouk-Ace-G0ACE]

I know this is an old video but the principles are still the same. Thanks for the discussion, you make some good points. These days I'm spending a lot of time working on lenses and shooting angles to make people look thinner in the face without resorting to Photoshop. Shooting only slim clients would not be a good business move! Thanks for the videl.

[@greenmedic88]

The cellphone selfie definitely altered common perception about the look of portraits. Hadn't made that firm connection until you pointed that out. The selfie shot created more demand for wider lenses for bloggers using ICL cameras, but I hadn't made that connection with regards to portrait perception. The iPhone 11's "telephoto" lens is a 52mm equivalent focal length, with the standard at 26mm and the wide at 13mm. These are the focal lengths people are used to seeing themselves at in photos.

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Yup!

[@kurtsteiner8384]

I have a few lenses mostly 35mm slr type canon sigma, tamaron and cosina. Prime lenses i use 50mm 1.8 / 100mm macro 2.8 usm . I also have two converers that are useful 1.4 and a ×2. These are also very useful but need to shoot in manual to focus with them For most things i take a 50mm or 100mm or 105mm. Hope it helps

[@pattymattes7124]

I'm glad you did this. I do photography in very tight spaces (in my home and shelter) and if I use a long lens I would literally have to stand outside to do a portrait. When I was on photography team for a local church and we were doing Easter portraits (Chris, if you are watching this I'm not picking on you) we had a difference of opinion on focal length of lens. We were in a small space. I was thinking a shorter focal length would work better. I'm not talking wide angle, more like 50mm to 70mm. If we had good size family there would be more room to back up. It was decided to go with the longer focal length. It worked but there were two photogs in the middle of the room shooting toward each end of the rectangular room and we were almost on top of each other. Personally I would have preferred more room. I hope Chris is watching this, lol.

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

For groups I would certainly not use a “long” lens unless I had a ton of space

[@AdrianBacon]

I know this is an older video, but it's kind of a timeless question. For portraits, I don't really have a preference because I generally will pick the shooting distance that makes the subjects ears approximately the same size as their nose. Sometimes that's fairly close and I'm shooting wider, and sometimes that's not close at all and I'm shooting up at 100-200mm range. Sometimes I'm doing a really specific thing and that requires a specific focal length. All that being said, if I could only pick one lens as a general purpose do everything lens, It'd be 40mm for full frame. 35mm feels a little too wide and 50mm feels a little too tight, but 40mm feels just about right. I wish a company made a really fast 40mm.

[@troyphillips1077]

I just sold my 50mm for a 40 ff . I started shooting a lot of stuff at 27-28mm ish shooting live music photography. So it shows say a singer up close but has a story behind it . I started finding my 50 didn’t tell enough. I did a few shoots with an old Nikkor 35mm f/2 and really liked the look . So I got rid of the 50 for a 40 . I still use the 300 mm and a 70-200 or a 180 . But I’ve evolved into a more intimate live music portrait shooter . I’m wanting to venture into the Fujifilm GFX cameras for that look . They have a new 80mm f/1.7 coming out . It would be about 65mm in ff . I think I’d get this lens first . Thanks for valuable advice

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Cool

[@paulbernardi2597]

Hi Dan, I've been using my 16 - 36 for quite some time now on the canon 60D but I just bought a new 6D mk ii so I gotta get use to the full frame. Loving it so far! I also like my 50 mm 1.8

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Cool

[@RichardsWorld]

If someone is a little overweight and wants to look thinner, would you recommend a longer lens like an 85 or 135mm?

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

That has much more to do with pose and lighting, but either lens can make a great shot.

[@drewrobertson6286]

I shoot with a Kamlan 50 1.0, a Zeiss 24-70 4.0, a Russian lens or two & a bunch of cool cctv lenses adapted for my NEX 7. I just bought the S1R with a Leica 18 2.8 for street, & I think my portrait lens for that camera will be the 50 S pro 1.4. Not like it’s important, but that answers your question. Thanks for the video, love the content, while I’m not a Nikon fan, that face detection on the zed 6 is working out well indeed!

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Cool

[@djsugarbear6079]

Absolutely agree 💯#. The photographer/model photographer is the most important. Folks need to realize that tech is one thing but the conversation between the model and the lens is the most important. Awesome points as always!!!

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Thank You!

[@antoniodevera5988]

Great and informative video. So on an APS-C sensor, a 35mm or 50mm? Thanks!

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Typically 35 for me

[@harryburnett7086]

Awesome video , you seem to see most photographers use and praise 105 to 135 , but the 85 mm was my favorite portrait lens along with a 60 mm macro i used alot simular to a "normal" 50 mm back in the 80s 90s and i agree a 50 mm is a great choice

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Indeed

[@seanfshannon]

My goto is an 85mm for actor headshots. I also like quite tight framing so when I come in to around 4ft or so I like the way it renders the face. That being said, I am trying to incorporate a 50mm more just to give a different perspective.

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Cool. Yes, the 85 for actors is great

[@seanfshannon]

@@DanielNortonPhotographer So question, is compression based more on distance to subject rather than focal length? So if I'm using a 50mm on say a Fuji X-T3, and shooting at the same distance, would it give me similar compression to if I was using an 85mm on full frame?

[@Arzenteart]

I also believe that the rapport you develop with whom you're shooting is important. I use mostly a 50mm f1.8 in studio to develop that conversation of trust and personal input. The importance of lens size won't matter if the intimacy and trust isn't there, the session to me becomes a job you do the shoot, put the equipment away, say goodbye and walk out the door.

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Indeed

[@nb6072]

Hi Daniel, great video (as always)! Would love to see that link of you shooting the 4x5 camera and 300mm lens. Thanks so much for insightful work!

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Someone posted it above

[@dalemartin6828]

My photography ranges from astronomy, landscape, seascape, cityscape, and portraits so I totally get where you coming from with regards to the lens you chose, field of view, compression, etc. I lpve the 50mm especially if I want to get just a little of the background in with the portrait. But ill go with an 85mm if I want a tighter portrait without the background distraction. But then ill use an ultra wide angle for many landscapes if I want to add a bit of foreground interest. Then a wide angle with something like to 28mm for astro. I think many lenses have their own purpose depending what you're using it for or wanting to achieve.

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻

[@JimResnikoff]

I used to use longer lenses.. Now I find myself really using the 24-70 usually at the stretchy end.. I've thought about macro 105, but have not pulled the trigger on that. As time goes by the 24-70 really is my workhorse mule. I do use the 70-200 but certainly not as much.

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

I love a nice 105 macro but not for portraits generally

[@DentargPL]

Nice to have opinion on that topic from the professional. 90% of YT channels are just informercials. They just want you to buy new staff so they push every new lens in your throat. Daniel's different. Thank you.

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

🙌🏻🙌🏻

[@sbai4319]

Thanks Daniel, I have two 50mm lenses and I am experimenting with a 35mm as well. It is all a matter of preference and experience. I have an 85mm F1,8 that i am experimenting with. All of these could be used in different ways for different kinds of portraits. Cheers and thanks again for your thoughtful analysis.

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Indeed. Thanks 🙏🏻

[@hifispec01]

Very interesting video. Great analysis and insight on the topic. Personally I also prefer the 50mm for general portraits and resort to the 85mm for certain close ups.

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Cool

[@donaldbrocksmith9508]

Daniel, if I'm using a Nikon crop sensor in combination with a Nikon DX lens would a 50mm lens be equivalent to a 75mm in terms of portraits? Can't afford a full frame yet.

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Many people with “crop sensors” use 50mm for portraits

[@papabear7875]

Which lens would you recommend for APS-C body 50mm vs 85mm for portraits?

[@michaels8597]

We like to shoot in an intimate fashion,and Daniel and I shared ideas about street shooting.WE agree it's so simple to ask,permission,get up close,and making it happen.We are not into hiding in the bushes,being 600 meters away,or pretending not to shoot while pressing the shutter.I use a zoom outside,and I stick close to 30-60,unless I need extra range.It's easy to just move your feet...

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Cool

[@joedimeo]

I’m a new subscriber! I love your candor, and Jim Haughton’s album cover of Billy Joel’s ‘The Stranger’ cemented the deal!

[@flysandman]

Being a nonconformist of long standing I've used every focal length I own from 18 to 500mm for portraits and likely will again. My go lens is a 28-80mm zoom. It gives me the flexibility to get in close without invading my model's personal space and still be able to get the different perspectives that wide angle allows.

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Cool

[@johnleighdesigns]

great timing - this topic has been on my mind a while - im on crop sensor canon and find in my small home studio 50mm can be too close as its more like 85mm - but i like the bokeh of some random elements behind the subject in the room when using 1.8 aperture - i was consideing the 85mm 1.8 canon lens but then i have a canon 75-200mm 4.5 - 6.5 that includes that focal length in a way so not sure if i would benefit except in the bokeh and low light again!

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

The prime is likely to be sharper and have a different feel/look, so it really depends on if you think that’s is worth the investment.

[@StevenMannSlioch]

I like this but there is a bit of repetition. I would have liked to have seen some images to illustrate your points. I have just bought a 50mm 1.4 but I shoot on an APS-C camera so it is 75mm equivalent.

[@ademola5803]

I saw you use a nikon 105mm f2.8 macro for portrait photography. How does it compare to the 50mm lens. I saw you use one for portrait photography

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Longer (thus more compression at the same framing) and sharper (macro lenses are sharp!)

[@johnparish5498]

As always Great advice... it's nice that you not only mention the lens but the reasoning behind it (i.e. Subject interaction) .. many thanks for all the videos you do. JP

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Thanks!

[@RaymondParkerPhoto]

For years, I used the Nikkor 105mm -- great for headshots. I recently bought the 85mm f/1.8S and think I'm going to like it.

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Nice

[@madphotographer762]

The best lens is the one you have on you!!!

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

True

[@lucannon]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts. I find it very helpful!

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Thank You!

[@GilbertTV]

I've been using my 85 more recently but I must admit I feel that disconnect with my model that I don't feel when I use my 50 or 45..

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

🙌🏻

[@limakilo1331]

Daniel, appreciate the opinion, thank you.

[@khmr33]

I'm in a weird position, because I started shooting with a Canon 60D and a 50mm 1.8STM... once I got a 6D mk1, I fell in love with my 50mm 1.8 all over again. I use that lens enough that I'm considering the 1.4. When I started thinking about trying longer lenses... I wasn't ready to drop coin on a 70-200. So I bought the older 80-200 Magic Drainpipe :D That thing is a monster, but still a beautiful lens. I love using it. The sheer quality just runs circles around my plastic little 50mm. So I really love shooting everywhere from the 50mm to 200mm for portraits but it depends on the context... but it's pretty obvious to grab the best glass you got!

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

For sure, each lens has its own character

[@harryburnett7086]

I love the photographers who use wider angle lens in there portraits and wisely use environments around subject

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Yes, that can create an interesting scene

[@houstonprofessionalphotogr2603]

I use in studio 85mm to 135mm on location 24-70mm or 70-200mm

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Nice

[@SRC1711]

Oh, how I fondly recollect my first camera the Electro 35 which I have replaced with the xt20 and the 27mm pancake. Perfectly happy with my Fuji for portraits of family and friends.

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Cool

[@johnlehman2761]

Hi Daniel, Great video as always. I watch everyone you make. Can you translate those recommendations to the APC (I shoot Fuji XT3) I understand the crop factor, but I’m not sure if that also translates to perspective. I often use the 35 f1.4 and the 56 f 1.2.

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

That’s roughly 50 and 85 😊

[@johnlehman2761]

Thanks

[@stigmatedbrain]

Great one!

[@trancer03]

I know long time Portrait photographers that swear that 135mm is needed to show proper facial shape. Which focal length do you think has the most accurate facial shape? Like how we see it with our own eyes/is actually showing the same exact same facial shape and size on a print as the person actually is. what focal length would that be?

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

It has nothing to do with the lens and everything to do with where you stand. The rest is just a crop

[@longliveclassicmusic]

I personally like the effect of longer lenses BECAUSE we're so used to seeing people through the lens of an iPhone. I think that's why I'm so drawn to dramatic, impactful studio lighting, because we're also so used to seeing images reconstructed in Lightroom. We're all in search of what stands out and makes an impact, to us as well as our subjects. Our vision should never stop changing!

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Cool

[@francoisperras8186]

Thanks for sharing your wisdom. I often work with non professional models. As you say, it's a conversation, and both of us are searching for a new meaning of the model's expression. So i usually start with a 50, then going onto the 85 before letting the fun out with a 35mm. With this last one, I feel we usually are out of the flattering zone but it's well compensated with the movement and/or the perspective given by the 35. It depends of the mood we're looking for, the time I have with the person, etc. Lately for a corporate session, with little time with each subject, I had to position myself away from the subjects, on the other side of huge conference. A 70-200 did the trick and gave me the chance ti work fast with the incoming flow of subjects passing by.

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Makes sense, sometimes you need the space

[@francoisperras8186]

"*a huge conference table." So it's really about the context, the time available, the mood, the effect, what kind of flow is allowed. 135 is fun. But like you pointed out, you need space for that. My kitchen is not that big... ;-)

[@annieglendinning9827]

Most of the time I have no idea what I am doing lol, but I did take my Canon 24-70mm up to Gold Coast to take pics of my granddaughters, who don't stand still and I do enjoy being close too! I love this lens. Most were taken at 50-70mm and I liked the results better than my Sigma 85mm fine art lens.

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Cool

[@onegreenev]

I like my Sony/Zeiss 55 1.8 and I have an old Canon 58mm 1.2 adapted to my Sony. I like them both.

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Nice

[@zelayajd]

i use canon 24-105 for my portraits, most of the time between 90 or 110mm

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Cool

[@ChrisLonsberryMedia]

I debated between the 50 and 85 for a while. While I was at Imaging, I committed to the 85. I don't like getting in people's faces even if I know them and the 85 gets me closer without being closer. The only drawback is how far back I have to get to do a full body shot. But.. I'll deal with it and love my 85. If it's really a problem, I'll slap the 24-70 back on.

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Nice

[@tonydicasa9254]

Thanks for sharing Daniel. One quick question, will a wider lens due to barrel distortion add weight to a face I.e. make the face appear fatter? Thanks :)

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

That would depend on the lens, but I have not found that to be the situation. Typically wide lens make faces look more narrow because it’s pushing the ears back in the nose forward

[@tonydicasa9254]

Daniel Norton Photographer Thanks Daniel! Good to know :)

[@thefaeryman]

what about zoom lens for portraits, I realize we loose depth of field, but but would other than the obvious is there any good reasons for the zoom over fixed lens? best

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

A Zoom lens is a good option for a portrait

[@smalltalk.productions9977]

interesting and thoughtful vid. i like the idea of your philosophy evolving. one question: favorite/preferred f stop? how much dof on the nose-eyes-ears? f4? thanks for the effort and the sharing. thumbs up.

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

That depends on how close I am to my subject but if I had to guess I’d say I average around 5.6-8

[@joedusel]

So, this video was shot on Jan 20, 2020 B.C. (Before COVID-19). Now that we are living in a new reality what length lens will you be using for typical portrait sessions including head shots?

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Still the same

[@b991228]

Alfred Eisenstaedt said he enjoyed the casual approach of working with a wide angle Rollieflex for street portraits because he didn’t have to bring the camera to his eye. The problem though was that Life Magazine was rarely happy with it because they only wanted to work with 35mm film.

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Probably for cost reasons

[@aight365]

Brilliant video. Just found your channel and subbed! Gonna continue watching more of your channel :)

[@aight365]

Btw what focal length have you used for this video specifically? I love it

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Thanks!

[@Bob-Horse]

Very helpful Daniel.

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Thanks

[@ShaneBaker]

My preferred portrait lenses are my 50 and 85 primes (mainly the 50) - not because of their focal lengths, but because they somehow produce a buttery, yet sharp image. That said, if I don't have the space, I get out the 24 - 70. If your subject isn't in shot, it ain't a portrait!! :-) Thanks Daniel. As always, a video that makes me think.

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Cool

[@jaybeckerich]

I use a 50 over an 85 all day for the same reasons. I want to be able to talk to my people and show just a little more location. 85 doesn’t show enough. On a second body I have a 24mm 1.4 and do some fun environment wide angle shots. More of a landscape photo with my people in the frame. (Beach photographer)

[@peterevans8194]

Really interesting video..I do wonder if it's easier to work close in with an experienced model who is used to being infront of the camera rather than Joe Public who is just having s portrait done and who perhaps lacks a little confidence? Very thought provoking video though...

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

That is an interesting point, I can’t really say as I do the same with everyone.

[@henrycartier]

Hi Daniel, very interesting video and an eyeopener. I've been shooting in studio for many years now and have always went for the 85 (somtimes 100mm) because... that is what they told you :-) But recently I got a comment (from a young woman in her mid 20's I'd say) saying that "I don't like it...I don't know what it is but it doesn't look like me. The jaw seems like a big blob". Now the images were not edited and the lighting setup was (out of camera) a little bit hot and not particulary flattering with a 53" Elinchrom octa feathered on the side. A spillbox as you say - not very directional/controlled. After some D&B I restored that jawline and they were fine. BUT it got me thinking. I have taken testportraits of myself in the same setup/focal length and I do feel I look wider than in real life. So I am sure it is also a combination of lighting path and focallength/distance to subject. I will start using 50-70mm more often I think. Do you have a distance limit for the 50-70mm range in order to not introduce distorsion/big nose. Is 5 feet OK?

[@andrefelixstudio2833]

Nice video. If you want to have a conversation when using a long lens just get a remote . Remember not to stand infront of your camera. 85mm or a bit longer is a nice lens for making the face look good as Daniel said. It's also about making sure you have a plan with the client for how your going to shoot your images or you just might not get paid, it's not about you its about your client if it's a job!

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Yes, a remote is another good option

[@benharris3949]

“Stretchy lens” Daniel Norton, 2020

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

™️

[@curtisclement]

What will be the best lens for shooting leading lines

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

It depends on where they are leading you

[@curtisclement]

Thank you for the reply, maybe an idea for a future video to elaborate on.

[@luistunonjr.304]

Why don't you do a demo with Marisa or Erika using both to establish differences?

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

I’ve already made a video demonstrating how the distance is what affects compression - with Marisa even 😊

[@danielmedley3486]

Thanks, Daniel. I always enjoy your videos. I agree with you in that it can vary depending on what you're shooting. It can also depend on the environment in which you're shooting. I've found that my go-to lenses are: 50mm, 85mm, and 135mm; not necessarily in that order. I like the 50 for much of the same reasons you point out, but on some shoots, for example implied, I like the 85 mainly because of comfort for a nearly nude model. That distance can make a difference in the shots because personal space requirements seem to expand as clothes come off. But, I do love the 50mm in most circumstances. As far as the 135, I live and work in the mountain west/southwest of the US. It's really conducive for portraits standing way back and pulling in the huge mountains or desert landscapes. I love that "compressed" look in this kind of scenario. But due to weather constraints, I'm only shooting outside for, at most, about 7 months out of the year.

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Really good points, especially about the compression and shooting outside. That’s a great reason to choose a lens in my opinion

[@chirag4]

if i had to live with just one lens or one focal-length, it would be 58mm (60-ish) for fullframe, .... or 80mm for medium format (44x33mm, 0.8x crop factor) which is 63mm equivalent in Fx field of view, .... or 100mm for 53x40mm sensors (60mm in Fx terms, 0.6x crop factor). thanks daniel for this video.

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

Cool

[@creativityrevealed3659]

Didn't expect to be taken to church man!

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻

[@harryburnett7086]

#DanielNortonPhotographer I shoot m43 now , long story short , hardships theft of my ff Nikon camera equipment and illness and disabled now, but anyhow i like a new m43 lens for portrait what would your chouce be

[@DanielNortonPhotographer]

I can’t say I’ve used mini micro 4/3 cameras or lenses. But I probably would go with something like a 35 mm personally