Focal length is the distance between the camera lens and the image sensor when a photograph is taken. The shorter the focal length, the wider the angle of view and the more you can fit into the frame.
The longer the focal length, the narrower the angle of view and the less you can fit into the frame.
For portrait photography, you want to use a longer focal length to capture a narrow field of view and minimize distractions in the background. This will help your subject stand out and ensure that your viewers are focused on the person you’re photographing.
A good focal length for portrait photography is around 85mm. This will give you a nice, tight field of view that will make your subject stand out while still allowing you to include some of the background in the frame.
If you’re using a cropped sensor camera, you’ll need to multiply the focal length by the crop factor to get the equivalent field of view. For example, if you’re using a Canon EOS 7D with a 1. 6x crop factor, your 85mm lens will have the equivalent field of view of a 136mm lens on a full frame camera.
20 Best Focal Length For Portrait
Product Image | Product Name | Features | Price |
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Canon – RF 85mm f/1.2L USM DS Lens |
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Canon – RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM Lens |
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Nikon AF-S Nikkor 85mm f/1.8G Lens |
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Canon EF 85mm f/1.4L is USM – DSLR Lens – Lens Only |
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Sony Fe 85mm f/1.8 Lens |
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Tamron SP 85mm F-1.8 di VC USD Lens for Canon |
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Nikon – AF-S Nikkor 85mm f/1.8G Medium Telephoto Lens – Black |
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Tamron SP 85mm F-1.8 di VC USD Lens for Nikon |
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Tamron SP 85mm f/1.8 di VC USD (F016) Lens for Nikon |
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Canon EF 85 mm f/1.8 USM Lens |
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Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Telephoto Lens (58mm) |
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Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM DS Lens with SanDisk Extreme Pro 64gb Starter Package by NJAccessory |
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Canon – EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Lens |
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- Portrait-length prime is designed for full-frame Canon RF-mount mirrorless digital cameras.
- One aspherical element and one UD element also help to control aberrations and distortions for sharper, clearer image quality.
- High Image Quality and Bright F1.2 Aperture.
- Control Ring for Direct Setting Changes.
- One Aspherical Element and One UD Lens.
- Fast aperture medium telephone lens
- Internal Focus
- Silent Wave Motor (SWM)
- Canon’s First 85mm L-series Lens with IS Capability.
- Large, Bright f/1.4 Aperture.
- Image Stabilization at up to 4* Stops of Shake Correction.
- Bright f/1.8 maximum aperture allows for fine-tuned control over depth of field and also benefits working in difficult lighting conditions.
- Unsurpassed clarity and color
- Sharpness in balance with bokeh
- Hold steady with vibration compensation
- Type: Medium TelephotoFormat: FX/35mm
- DXFocal Length: 85 mmCamera Mount: Nikon FAperture: Maximum: f/1.8 Minimum: f/16Compatibility: NikonDiameter: 67 mmFocus Type: Auto
- Rounded nine-blade diaphragm produces a pleasing out-of-focus quality when working with shallow depth of field techniques.
- Ultrasonic Silent Drive (USD) high-torque motor ensures fast & accurate AF response
- Three-coil electromagnetic VC image stabilization system provides a 3.5-stop advantage for significantly sharper images
- Focal length and maximum aperture: 85 mm f1.8
- Lens construction: 9 elements in 7 groups
- Diagonal angle of view: 28°-30°
- 85mm standard lens with f/1.8 maximum aperture for Canon SLR cameras,Lens Type:Telephoto Zoom Lens.
- Ring-type ultra-sonic monitor (USM) brings subject quickly into focus, Focal length: 85mm, Closest focusing distance: 2.8 feet.
- 64 GB
- Capture beautiful people shots.
- Versatile in different lighting conditions.
- Ultrasonic focusing mechanism.
1. Canon – RF 85mm f/1.2L USM DS Lens
- Portrait-length prime is designed for full-frame Canon RF-mount mirrorless digital cameras.
- One aspherical element and one UD element also help to control aberrations and distortions for sharper, clearer image quality.
- Configurable Control Ring can be used to adjust a variety of exposure settings, including aperture, ISO, and exposure compensation.
- Rounded 9-blade diaphragm contributes to a pleasing bokeh quality.
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Product Details
Specifications
Details | |
Length | 4.2 in |
Diameter | 3.3 in |
Weight | 24.69 oz |
Type | Zoom lens |
Special Functions | Zoom |
Reviews From Real Customers
2. Canon – RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM Lens
- High Image Quality and Bright F1.2 Aperture.
- Control Ring for Direct Setting Changes.
- One Aspherical Element and One UD Lens.
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Best Buy |
Product Details
Specifications
Details | |
Length | 4.6 in |
Diameter | 4.1 in |
Weight | 2.63 lbs |
Type | Telephoto lens |
Special Functions | Tele |
3. Nikon AF-S Nikkor 85mm f/1.8G Lens
- Fast aperture medium telephone lens
- Internal Focus
- Silent Wave Motor (SWM)
- M/A focus mode switch
- Nikon Super Integrated Coating (SIC)
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Product Details
Specifications
Details | |
Length | 2.9 in |
Diameter | 3.1 in |
Weight | 12.34 oz |
Lens System | |
Type | Lens |
Intended For | 35mm SLR, digital SLR |
Focal Length | 85 mm |
Lens Aperture | F/1.8 |
Minimum Aperture | F/16 |
Magnification | 0.12 |
Min Focus Distance | 2.6 ft |
Focus Adjustment | Automatic, manual |
Max View Angle | 28.5 degrees |
Lens Construction | 9 groups / 9 elements |
Filter Size | 67 mm |
Diaphragm Blades | 7 |
Lens Coating | Nikon Nano-Crystal Coat |
Mounting Type | Nikon F |
Features | Internal focusing system, Silent Wave Motor (SWM) |
Miscellaneous | |
Included Accessories | Lens hood, dust cap, lens cap, carrying pouch |
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4. Canon EF 85mm f/1.4L is USM – DSLR Lens – Lens Only
- Canon’s First 85mm L-series Lens with IS Capability.
- Large, Bright f/1.4 Aperture.
- Image Stabilization at up to 4* Stops of Shake Correction.
- GMo Aspherical Lens with Air Sphere Coating Technology.
- Lens Construction: 14 elements in 10 groups.
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Canon | |
B&H Photo-Video-Audio |
Product Details
Specifications
Details | |
Length | 4.1 in |
Diameter | 3.5 in |
Weight | 33.51 oz |
Type | Telephoto lens |
Special Functions | Tele |
5. Sony Fe 85mm f/1.8 Lens
- Bright f/1.8 maximum aperture allows for fine-tuned control over depth of field and also benefits working in difficult lighting conditions.
- Double linear autofocus motor delivers smooth, precise, and near silent focusing performance to benefit both stills and video applications.
- Rounded nine-blade diaphragm contributes to a pleasing bokeh quality when employing selective focus techniques.
- Dust- and moisture-resistant design for increased protection to the elements.
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Product Details
Specifications
Details | |
Length | 3.2 in |
Diameter | 3.1 in |
Weight | 13.09 oz |
Lens System | |
Type | Telephoto lens |
Special Functions | Tele |
Intended For | Camcorder, mirrorless system |
Focal Length | 85 mm |
Lens Aperture | F/1.8 |
Minimum Aperture | F/22 |
Magnification | 0.13 |
Min Focus Distance | 31.5 in |
Focus Adjustment | Automatic, manual |
Max View Angle | 29 degrees |
Lens Construction | 8 groups / 9 elements |
Filter Size | 67 mm |
Diaphragm Blades | 9 |
Mounting Type | Sony E-mount |
Features | ED glass, dustproof, linear AF motor, focus hold button, moisture-resistant |
Miscellaneous | |
Included Accessories | Lens hood, dust cap, lens cap |
Manufacturer Warranty | |
Service & Support | Limited warranty – parts and labor – 1 year |
Compatibility Information | |
Designed For | Sony NEX-FS700U, NEX-FS700UK Sony Handycam NEX-VG10, NEX-VG10E, NEX-VG20, NEX-VG20E, NEX-VG20EH, NEX-VG20H, NEX-VG30, NEX-VG30E, NEX-VG30EH, NEX-VG30H, NEX-VG900 Sony NXCAM NEX-EA50E, NEX-EA50U, NEX-EA50UH, NEX-FS100E, NEX-FS100EK, NEX-FS100J, NEX-FS100JK, NEX-FS100U, NEX-FS100UK, NEX-FS700E, NEX-FS700EK, NEX-FS700R, NEX-FS700RH, NEX-FS700U, NEX-FS700UK Sony a NEX 3A, 3D, 3K, 3NL, 3NY, 5A, 5D, 5H, 5K, 5N, 5ND, 5NK, 5NY, 5R, 5RK, 5RL, 5RY, 5T, 5TL, 5TY, 6, 6L, 6Y, 7, 7K, C3, C3A, C3D, C3K, F3, F3D, F3K, F3Y Sony a3000 ILCE-3000, ILCE-3000K Sony a3500 ILCE-3500J Sony a5000 ILCE-5000, ILCE-5000L, ILCE-5000Y Sony a5100 ILCE-5100, ILCE-5100L, ILCE-5100LT, ILCE-5100Y, ILCE-5100YB Sony a6000 ILCE-6000, ILCE-6000L, ILCE-6000Y Sony a6100 ILCE-6100, ILCE-6100 UC2, ILCE-6100L, ILCE-6100L UC2, ILCE-6100Y, ILCE-6100Y UC2 Sony a6300 ILCE-6300, ILCE-6300L, ILCE-6300M Sony a6400 ILCE-6400, ILCE-6400L, ILCE-6400M, ILCE-6400Y Sony a6500 ILCE-6500 Sony a6600 ILCE-6600, ILCE-6600M Sony a7 ILCE-7, ILCE-7K Sony a7 II ILCE-7M2, ILCE-7M2K Sony a7 III ILCE-7M3, ILCE-7M3K Sony a7C ILCE-7C Sony a7R ILCE-7R Sony a7R II ILCE-7RM2 Sony a7R III ILCE-7RM3 Sony a7R IV ILCE-7RM4A Sony a7s ILCE-7S Sony a7s II ILCE-7SM2 Sony a9 |
Reviews From Real Customers
6. Tamron SP 85mm F-1.8 di VC USD Lens for Canon
- Unsurpassed clarity and color
- Sharpness in balance with bokeh
- Hold steady with vibration compensation
- Resists moisture
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Service Photo |
Product Details
Specifications
Details | |
Length | 3.6 in |
Diameter | 3.3 in |
Weight | 23.28 oz |
Type | Telephoto lens |
Special Functions | Tele |
Reviews From Real Customers
7. Nikon – AF-S Nikkor 85mm f/1.8G Medium Telephoto Lens – Black
- Type: Medium TelephotoFormat: FX/35mm
- DXFocal Length: 85 mmCamera Mount: Nikon FAperture: Maximum: f/1.8 Minimum: f/16Compatibility: NikonDiameter: 67 mmFocus Type: Auto
- Manual
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Nikon Store |
Product Details
Specifications
Details | |
Length | 2.9 in |
Diameter | 3.1 in |
Weight | 12.34 oz |
Lens System | |
Type | Telephoto lens |
Special Functions | Tele |
Intended For | 35mm SLR, digital SLR |
Focal Length | 85 mm |
Lens Aperture | F/1.8 |
Minimum Aperture | F/16 |
Magnification | 0.12 |
Min Focus Distance | 2.6 ft |
Focus Adjustment | Automatic, manual |
Max View Angle | 28.5 degrees |
Lens Construction | 9 groups / 9 elements |
Filter Size | 67 mm |
Diaphragm Blades | 7 |
Lens Coating | Nikon Super Integrated Coating |
Mounting Type | Nikon F |
Features | Internal focusing system, full-time manual focusing, Silent Wave Motor (SWM) |
Miscellaneous | |
Included Accessories | Lens hood, dust cap, lens cap, lens case |
Compatibility Information | |
Designed For | Nikon D1, D100, D1H, D1X, D200, D2H, D2HS, D2X, D2Xs, D3, D300, D3000, D300S, D3100, D3200, D3s, D3X, D4, D40, D40x, D50, D5000, D5100, D5300, D60, D70, D700, D7000, D70s, D80, D800, D800E, D810, D850, D90 |
8. Canon EF 85mm f/1.4L Is USM Lens (Intl Model) – Perfect Prime Portrait Lens with: Pro Uv/cpl/f, Macro + Graduated Filter Set + Cleaning Kit + Card
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Product Details
Specifications
Details | |
Assembled Product Dimensions (L x W x H) | 12.00 x 11.00 x 7.00 Inches |
9. Tamron SP 85mm F-1.8 di VC USD Lens for Nikon
- Rounded nine-blade diaphragm produces a pleasing out-of-focus quality when working with shallow depth of field techniques.
- An electromagnetic diaphragm system is used to ensure more consistent exposure results, especially at higher continuous shooting rates.
- Compatible with the optional TAP-in Console for updating the lens’ firmware as well as adjusting focus settings via the TAP-in Utility software.
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Product Details
Specifications
Details | |
Length | 3.5 in |
Diameter | 3.3 in |
Weight | 24.69 oz |
Type | Telephoto lens |
Special Functions | Tele |
Reviews From Real Customers
10. Tamron SP 85mm f/1.8 di VC USD (F016) Lens for Nikon
- Ultrasonic Silent Drive (USD) high-torque motor ensures fast & accurate AF response
- Three-coil electromagnetic VC image stabilization system provides a 3.5-stop advantage for significantly sharper images
- Firmware and settings customizable via optional TAMRON TAP-in Console (available separately)
- Moisture-proof and dust-resistant construction prevents intrusion of dust or water droplets
- Lens, Lens Hood, Rear cap, Instructions, Silkypix Developer Studio 4.0 software.Minimum Object Distance:0.8m (31.5 inches)
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Product Details
Specifications
Details | |
Length | 3.5 in |
Diameter | 3.3 in |
Weight | 24.69 oz |
Type | Telephoto lens |
Special Functions | Tele |
11. Canon EF 85 mm f/1.8 USM Lens
- Focal length and maximum aperture: 85 mm f1.8
- Lens construction: 9 elements in 7 groups
- Diagonal angle of view: 28°-30°
- Focus adjustment: Rear focusing system with USM
- Closest focusing distance: 0.85m / 2.8ft
Product Details
Specifications
Details | |
Length | 2.8 in |
Diameter | 3 in |
Weight | 14.99 oz |
Color | Black |
Localization | English |
Reviews From Real Customers
12. Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Telephoto Lens (58mm)
- 85mm standard lens with f/1.8 maximum aperture for Canon SLR cameras,Lens Type:Telephoto Zoom Lens.
- Ring-type ultra-sonic monitor (USM) brings subject quickly into focus, Focal length: 85mm, Closest focusing distance: 2.8 feet.
- Natural angle of view and perspective is ideal for portraits and natural images.
- Designed to produce beautiful background blur; weighs 15 ounces; 85cm closest focusing distance.
- Refer User manual for troubleshooting steps.
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Specifications
Details | |
Item traits | 2.83 X 2.95 X 2.95 Inches |
Product Dimensions | 2.83 X 2.95 X 2.95 Inches |
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13. Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM DS Lens with SanDisk Extreme Pro 64gb Starter Package by NJAccessory
- 64 GB
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14. Canon – EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Lens
- Capture beautiful people shots.
- Versatile in different lighting conditions.
- Ultrasonic focusing mechanism.
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Product Details
Specifications
Details | |
Lens Type | Fixed |
Lens Type Detail | Telephoto |
Maximum Focal Length | 85 mm |
Magnification | 0.13x |
Maximum Aperture | f/1.8 |
Filter Attachment Diameter | 58 mm |
Lens Mount Type | Canon EF |
Autofocus | Yes |
Diameter | 3″ |
Weight (Approximate) | 15 oz |
Application/Usage | Digital Camera |
Compatibility | Canon EOS Cameras |
Country of Origin | Japan |
Limited Warranty | 1 Year |
15. Canon RF 70-200mm f/2.8L Is USM Zoom Lens – U.S.A. Warranty – Bundle with Flex Lens Shade, 77mm Filt
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Specifications
Details | |
Lens Format | Full Frame |
Lens Type | Telephoto Zoom Lens |
Kit Style | PC Software & Accessories |
Focal Length | 70 to 200mm |
Maximum Aperture | f/2.8 |
16. Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Autofocus Telephoto Lens with Accessories
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17. Canon EF 85mm f/1.4L Is USM Lens 2271C002 – Essential Bundle Includes: Tulip Hood Lens, UV Filter, Cleaning Pen, Blower, Microfiber Cloth and Cleaning
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18. Canon RF 70-200mm f/2.8L Is USM Zoom Lens U.S.A. Warranty – with Flashpoint Zoom Li-on x R2 TTL On-C
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Product Details
Specifications
Details | |
Lens Format | Full Frame |
Lens Type | Telephoto Zoom Lens |
Kit Style | Lens & Flash Kit |
Focal Length | 70 to 200mm |
Maximum Aperture | f/2.8 |
19. Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM Lenswith SanDisk Extreme Pro 2x 128GB Starter Package
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20. Canon RF 70-200mm f/2.8L Is USM Zoom Lens – Bundle with Flex Lens Shade, 77mm Filter Kit, FocusShifter Dslr Follow Focus, 4 Section Aluminum
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Product Details
Specifications
Details | |
Lens Format | Full Frame |
Lens Type | Telephoto Zoom Lens |
Kit Style | Premium Bundle |
Focal Length | 70 to 200mm |
Maximum Aperture | f/2.8 |
Conclusion
There are a few things to consider when determining the best focal length for a portrait. The first is the distance between the photographer and the subject. The closer the photographer is to the subject, the shorter the focal length will be.
The second is the angle of view. A wider angle of view will require a shorter focal length, while a narrower angle of view will require a longer focal length. The third is the amount of background detail that is desired.
A shorter focal length will include more of the background in the frame, while a longer focal length will isolate the subject from the background.
In general, a focal length between 85mm and 135mm is ideal for a portrait. This gives the photographer a good amount of distance from the subject while still allowing them to fill the frame. It also provides a nice, narrow angle of view that helps to isolate the subject from the background.
However, the exact focal length will ultimately depend on the specific situation and the photographer’s personal preference.