Zoom vs Prime: What Lens is Best for Portraits?

In the video above, the fine folks at Mango Street offer their perspective on the issue.

As they discuss in the video, they prefer to shoot portraits with prime lenses. But, for comparison’s sake, they shoot with a Canon 24-70mm as well as 24mm and 35mm primes.

Below, I’ve outlined a few arguments for zooms and primes as being great options for portraits.

Which Lens is Best for Portraits? The Argument for Zooms 

photo by meatbull via iStock

So, both zooms and primes have their advantages, and as you can see in the video by Mango Street, you can create gorgeous images with either kind of lens.

In the end, the selection between the two will mostly come down to your personal preference and budget.

Fortunately, no matter if you’re after a zoom or a prime lens, all major camera manufacturers have a huge selection of both types in all manner of price points.

Better still, you can find great deals on used lenses so you can save some money at the same time (or use your extra cash to buy multiple lenses!).

Learn More:

4 Prime Lenses You Should Own  7 Reasons Why a 50mm Lens is All You Need For Great Photography