
You can easily shoot at 1/30s with this lens and capture sharp images (assuming your subjects are completely stationary!). Even though the f/1.4 aperture can let in a massive amount of light and will therefore let you use fast shutter speeds in low light, I generally don’t shoot portraits wide open because the depth of field is so tricky. One key advantage of this particular lens is its built-in image stabilization, which is exceptionally useful when handholding at slower shutter speeds. I know professional portrait photographers who use this lens exclusively, even over other options at their disposal like a 70-200mm f/2.8. It’s light, reasonably sized, and built to withstand the elements as well as some drops and falls.
#Best big aperture lens for canon plus
It has long been a favorite of Canon shooters and with good reason: the 85mm focal length is great for headshots and medium shots, plus full-body and group photos, too. The Canon EF 85mm f/1.4L IS USM is revered among portrait photographers for its stunning sharpness as well as sheer versatility.
#Best big aperture lens for canon upgrade
Amazing upgrade choice for new photographers who want better portraits than what their kit lens can offer.Inexpensive great price-to-performance ratio.These 50mm lenses often don’t include advanced features like weather sealing or metal construction, but if you keep your expectations in check and are just looking for an outstanding lens to shoot portraits without breaking the bank, this is the one to get. That said, I have used versions from other brands and tend to prefer the Nikon, but perhaps that’s just my own personal bias all of them do a great job with portraits and other photography situations, too. You can also find similar inexpensive lenses from Sony, Canon, and other manufacturers, so if you don’t shoot with Nikon cameras, you can still pick up a 50mm f/1.8 lens for your camera at a great price. I have been shooting with this lens for nearly a decade and still bring it with me to portrait sessions because it just works so well. The large f/1.8 aperture turns busy backgrounds into buttery smooth bokeh, and it works great in low-light situations, too.

The lens is tack sharp and focuses quickly, and the 50mm focal length is great for headshots, medium shots, and even wider shots with groups.

The Nikon 50mm f/1.8G is far and away my top pick for beginners who want to get into portrait photography without spending a lot of money.
