Location Portrait Lens

[Phil Wood]

I am trying to find the most suitable lens for taking hand held portrait type shots on location. I need a focal length up to 200mm I am liking the look of canon f4.00 IS 55-200 where they claim the IS is effective to 4 stops but this lens is for a crop sensor so would go on my 30D which would be a light easy combination using a 580 speedlite.
For group shots etc. I use the 5D with 24-105 L IS USM which I find ideal.
I would appreciate any ideas as to what would be a suitable lens for longer range shots using either the 5D or 30D
Does anyone know how good the 55-200mm is as it seems on the inexpensive side. Thanks.

 

[pxl8]

IS is of limited use when shooting people as it won't prevent blur from subject movement so even though you could shoot as slow as 1/12s at 200mm it's not really much use.

Do you need a zoom or could use work with a prime and your feet? If so then consider the 135mm f/2L on a crop body. Cracking lens and it ideal for portraits at a distance

 

[polo]

Phil the Canon 70-200 F2.8 is a stunning lens i use the none IS version you wont go far wrong with this one.

 

[rdh]

IS is of limited use when shooting people as it won't prevent blur from subject movement so even though you could shoot as slow as 1/12s at 200mm it's not really much use.

Do you need a zoom or could use work with a prime and your feet? If so then consider the 135mm f/2L on a crop body. Cracking lens and it ideal for portraits at a distance

Agreed - if you're not set on a zoom the 135/2L is a fantastic lens.