Portrait Lens for FF D700

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nikonuser

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Dave
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I have read where a 135mm is the ideal portrait lens on a full frame camera.
What lens do you use..... as Nikons 135 f2 is above my price range at £957 and Sigma only have a 105 and 150 (macro) lens.
I have a 85mm; 100 macro and 100-300 tele.
Dave
 
There is no 'ideal' length, only what suits you. The best portraits I've seen with a D700 have been with the 85mm F1.4, the 70-200mm F2.8 and the Sigma 50mm F1.4, so quite wide ranging, but they might not be right for you. :shrug:
 
I agree, these focal lengths for what's best on a crop or full frame are guidelines only.

You should have your own style and let that dictate the focal length.

What focal length is used most for your current shots?
 
Thanks Guys, I mainly use my trusted 24-70 which is on my camera all the time, Derek, I have the 85 (1.8) and Sigma 50mm f1.4.
I'm going to a studio shoot soon so may try out these options + my Tokina 100 macro.
Thank
Dave
 
Depends on how much room you have!

135 would be nice, you'll get a nice flattering telephoto look, the extra length will give exagerated DOF effect and be less "in the face" of your subject - if you have enough room.

85 needs 2/3rds the subject distance of the 135, the 1.8 is pretty nice and cheap.

50... well, that starts to get a bit close for head n shoulders on FX... but if you haven't got the room...

Personally, I'd give the 85 a try first - you have it already.

Just my two Roubles worth...
 
Thanks for the info. will give both the 85 and 100 a try out this time.
Thanks again
Dave
 
The 105 DC Nikons are supposed to be pretty damn good, and I believe Kerso has them (do a thread search for his sale lists).

Also I've seen the old 105 Micro Nikkors used to good effect.

Nick.
 
According to Uncle Ken "If you want just head and shoulders, you'll want a 200mm to 300mm lens, at least, since you want to stay at least fifteen feet away."
Good luck finding 15feet when inside a house/studio.

Are you looking to do full length portraits or head/shoulders? As this will have an effect on your choice.
 
Hi Tim - full length, sitting, crouching, lying down all those poses not just head and shoulders
Dave
 
And of course, the D40 is the best camera according to Uncle Ken, or better still shoot in 'Real Raw'!

on FF I would say an 85mm is the best bet.
 
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