Portrait photography is one of the most popular genres of the medium. Whether it is in a studio or a candid photo during a trip, portraiture continues to help one to save the liking of their loved ones forever. While there are various lenses that can job done, they can also be a tad bit expensive. For those keen on buying a budget-friendly alternative for Canon cameras, here are two lenses that can be of help.
Canon RF 24-105mm F4-7.1 IS STM
What makes it great? The 24-105mm is an ideal lens for various reasons. It has a macro option, comes with 13 elements in 11 groups, weighs 395g, and offers 5-stop shake reduction. It is a tiny lens, fits well with a mirrorless camera, and has a nice feel. However, it lacks weather sealing, so outdoor portrait photographers will have to be careful. If you get a second-hand lens, you can get the lens between $250 to $350.
Why is it unique? Since you are photographing people, you will be pleased to know that the lens has quick focus, whether you are using a single shot, from continuous AF, eye and animal AF, to continuous and tracking. Even in low light and low contrast, the lens does not disappoint. The zoom is also a pleasure to use. As for the images, the colors are beautiful and natural. The photos are very sharp, give nice, beautiful bokeh, and there’s not a hint of fringing or chromatic aberration. For bokeh, though, you have to use the telephoto end, and by getting closer to your subject. This is an all-round option for those shooting environmental portraits to gigs such as events.
It’s the perfect lens for many types of photography thanks to its versatile zoom range, and its small size and low weight means you can carry it around on your camera without feeling like your back is going to break.
Canon RF 50mm F1.8
What makes it great? The RF 50mm is the cheapest lens on the market, available for under $250. The f1.8 is a pretty wide open aperture for many young photographers to get good results, without having to spend thousands of dollars. While it does not have weather sealing, the lens provides a decent build and a small design, making it quite pocketable as well at just 160g.
Why is it unique? The lens’ focus does not slow down your camera in any way. One can focus “about a foot from the front of the lens,” which is pretty good as well. During the test shoot, we also barely missed the images. Thus, making the focus pretty solid. The images offer nice character flare, which is great for those who are looking for it. The colors are rich, and the center is reasonably sharp as well. This is ideal for young photographers who want good results, or those who want to dabble with portraiture for the first time.
Looking at the bokeh, it’s hard to tell the shots came from a cheap lens. While an f1.8 doesn’t get quite as smooth as an f1.2, the lens still produced some great bokeh. Soft points of light were round, with no hard edges. Colors and objects easily melted away in the background.
