No 1 favorite. I use the 50, 85 and 70-200... all depends on the context and the feel I'm going for. Classic headshots? Typically the 85mm. Sometimes the 70-200
Excellent video! I use an 85mm prime f1.8 for indoor studio headshots and a 24-70mm f2.8 when I step outdoors, which allows me to capture more of the environment. With the later lens, I try to be careful not to get too close and cause excessive face/body distortion. Based on your educational videos, I have started to move toward shooting at f5.6 to f8.0 when indoors where there is a clean background. Thank you
1.8 can be a fantastic aperture for when you want a stylized look. Keep that technique in your pocket, for sure. I shoot at 5.6-8 when I know I will need to remove the background later. Appreciate the support and thanks for watching :)
Hey Gary, nicely spoken. You've explained nicely how it works. It is also good that you mention that you simply achieve good results with a certain lens. A while back, Seth Miranda was talking about this as well. First, work with the lens you have. Get started with a different lens later. Learn to use your stuff. That was his message, in short. Thanks again and have a beautiful day
I currently only have one lens that is compatible with my camera : EF 24-70mm f4. So currently, I just set it to 70mm a go with it. I've noticed that sometimes I get a little distortion that I don't prefer, but my clients haven't seemed to care. They love their photos. I've had a 70-200mm f2.8 before and really liked that. I'll probably pick one up in the near future.
When I was a Nikon DSLR shooter the 24-120 F4 was great as you could do wide and tight shots, now I switch to Fuji Medium Format(GFX) I use the 45-100(about 35-80 35mm equivalent.).
New subscriber here. I have canon m6 mark II what do you suggest I can use for headshot? For event? At the moment I’m just renting out lenses since I can’t afford to buy the lens yet. 😢 Tysm
If you are looking for affordable, the RF 85mm F2 or the RF 24-105 F4 would be great choices. Check Canon refurbished for good deals, that’s where I get my lenses most of the time :)
Favorite headshot lens: Canon 70-200 f2.8 III Hey Gary- Random question relating to another video (forgot which) where you say you always shoot to an external hard drive so you don't ever run out of space on your laptop. I'm trying to implement this but I don't have enough ports on my MacBook Pro 2017. So, easy solution, I bought an adaptor with multiple connection types. This didn't workout. Anytime I move the computer at all the drive disconnects from the computer. Have you had this problem? Assuming you use an adaptor, what adaptor do you use and does it stay connected well? I have two USB-C ports: I directly connect my tether cable to one and like to have power to the other and now would like to attach an external SSD to another. Any help is greatly appreciated.
Good question. What you might need as a hub. I had the same issue before I upgraded my Mac (also 2017) to a 2021. The Anker 8 in 1 USB hub is a pretty solid choice and adds a ton of functionality and it's small and powers off the laptop, perfect for working on location. Hope that helps! Thanks for watching.
@@GaryHughesOfficial Thanks for the info. Kinda what I thought. Bad design of the 2017 Macbook. I'll try the anker and see where that gets me but I think the only true solution is to upgrade the computer. Great info and great channel!
I recently upgraded to the 16" MBP M1 Pro (got it refurbished with full warranty off Apple). It's SO much better than my 2017 MBP. A truly worthy upgrade. I still keep that Anker pro handy in case I need more ports like USB type A etc. Never know wehn you're gonna need it
great choices! I mention both in the actual video too :) As easy as it seems to a seasoned pro like yourself, a lot of new photographers are looking for help with things that veterans might consider basic knowledge. That's really who this video is for. Thanks for watching!
I like to shoot a 70-200mm for my personal work. One client of mine likes to use constant lights for their headshots. When I work for them, I use my 85mm prime since it lets in more light. I have another client who prefers natural light for his employees which again, I will use the 85mm prime.
A 105mm prime lens on a full frame camera allows me to stand at least one full body length away from the client. It also makes their face look better than a shorter lens. I like a prime because focal length is always the same and takes that out of the equation. If a client has a very large nose, I will pull out the 70-200mm and back up so that I shoot at 135mm to 200mm and minimize the feature.
I have an R7 in my kit and end up shooting on an APS-C sensor quite a bit. I use the 24-105 F4 for headshots mostly then, but 85mm would put you right in that 135mm effective focal length.
What's your favorite lens for headshots? Sound off in the comments, I want to hear from you!
85mm
@@AlannahHeart classic choice!
No 1 favorite. I use the 50, 85 and 70-200... all depends on the context and the feel I'm going for. Classic headshots? Typically the 85mm. Sometimes the 70-200
absolutely agree, depends on that the job is. Thanks for watching.@@StephenRansom
My Canon L series 70-200MM F2.8 has done 80% of all my headshots and generally around 85-120MM.
Excellent video! I use an 85mm prime f1.8 for indoor studio headshots and a 24-70mm f2.8 when I step outdoors, which allows me to capture more of the environment. With the later lens, I try to be careful not to get too close and cause excessive face/body distortion. Based on your educational videos, I have started to move toward shooting at f5.6 to f8.0 when indoors where there is a clean background. Thank you
1.8 can be a fantastic aperture for when you want a stylized look. Keep that technique in your pocket, for sure. I shoot at 5.6-8 when I know I will need to remove the background later. Appreciate the support and thanks for watching :)
From your presentation, it is clear you know your work. It had many good points. Thanks for sharing...
I appreciate that!
Hey Gary, nicely spoken. You've explained nicely how it works. It is also good that you mention that you simply achieve good results with a certain lens.
A while back, Seth Miranda was talking about this as well. First, work with the lens you have. Get started with a different lens later. Learn to use your stuff. That was his message, in short.
Thanks again and have a beautiful day
Totally agree! When I first started I asked my dad what lens I should get next. He said, "Learn to use that one first." Never forgot that!
Well explained video Gary, really enjoying these. I’ve just clicked the link for the guide.
thank you!
I currently only have one lens that is compatible with my camera : EF 24-70mm f4. So currently, I just set it to 70mm a go with it. I've noticed that sometimes I get a little distortion that I don't prefer, but my clients haven't seemed to care. They love their photos. I've had a 70-200mm f2.8 before and really liked that. I'll probably pick one up in the near future.
You gotta use what you got, right? Keep doing it!
Appreciate this video, THANKS!
Glad it was helpful! Thanks for taking the time to watch :)
Nice video, I’m really liking the 70-200mm f4 at 105 f4 for headshots but am testing out a 135 f2 for a shallower depth of field.
I have a buddy who swears by the 135 for headshots, it's a great focal length for sure.
When I was a Nikon DSLR shooter the 24-120 F4 was great as you could do wide and tight shots, now I switch to Fuji Medium Format(GFX) I use the 45-100(about 35-80 35mm equivalent.).
Sounds like a great setup!
Nice video!
Thanks! Appreciate the watch :)
New subscriber here. I have canon m6 mark II what do you suggest I can use for headshot? For event? At the moment I’m just renting out lenses since I can’t afford to buy the lens yet. 😢 Tysm
If you are looking for affordable, the RF 85mm F2 or the RF 24-105 F4 would be great choices. Check Canon refurbished for good deals, that’s where I get my lenses most of the time :)
Favorite headshot lens: Canon 70-200 f2.8 III
Hey Gary- Random question relating to another video (forgot which) where you say you always shoot to an external hard drive so you don't ever run out of space on your laptop. I'm trying to implement this but I don't have enough ports on my MacBook Pro 2017. So, easy solution, I bought an adaptor with multiple connection types. This didn't workout. Anytime I move the computer at all the drive disconnects from the computer. Have you had this problem? Assuming you use an adaptor, what adaptor do you use and does it stay connected well? I have two USB-C ports: I directly connect my tether cable to one and like to have power to the other and now would like to attach an external SSD to another. Any help is greatly appreciated.
Good question. What you might need as a hub. I had the same issue before I upgraded my Mac (also 2017) to a 2021. The Anker 8 in 1 USB hub is a pretty solid choice and adds a ton of functionality and it's small and powers off the laptop, perfect for working on location. Hope that helps! Thanks for watching.
@@GaryHughesOfficial Thanks for the info. Kinda what I thought. Bad design of the 2017 Macbook. I'll try the anker and see where that gets me but I think the only true solution is to upgrade the computer. Great info and great channel!
I recently upgraded to the 16" MBP M1 Pro (got it refurbished with full warranty off Apple). It's SO much better than my 2017 MBP. A truly worthy upgrade. I still keep that Anker pro handy in case I need more ports like USB type A etc. Never know wehn you're gonna need it
What's your take on shooting with a 50mm 1.8? I currently have a Canon EOS m50.
That 50 will end up being closer to an 85 on that camera. Thats probably a fine setup for headshots :)
A great lens is a 24-105mm zoom. I also use an 85mm. It's really not complicated.
great choices! I mention both in the actual video too :) As easy as it seems to a seasoned pro like yourself, a lot of new photographers are looking for help with things that veterans might consider basic knowledge. That's really who this video is for. Thanks for watching!
Depends on space. 50, 85, 105
@@sidehustlers336 all good choices!
I like to shoot a 70-200mm for my personal work. One client of mine likes to use constant lights for their headshots. When I work for them, I use my 85mm prime since it lets in more light. I have another client who prefers natural light for his employees which again, I will use the 85mm prime.
Awesome, use what works best for you!
A 105mm prime lens on a full frame camera allows me to stand at least one full body length away from the client. It also makes their face look better than a shorter lens. I like a prime because focal length is always the same and takes that out of the equation.
If a client has a very large nose, I will pull out the 70-200mm and back up so that I shoot at 135mm to 200mm and minimize the feature.
Sounds like it works well for you, keep it up!
I use a APS-c Camera, my kit is an 18-35mm, 50mm, 85mm (most used) and 100mm
I have an R7 in my kit and end up shooting on an APS-C sensor quite a bit. I use the 24-105 F4 for headshots mostly then, but 85mm would put you right in that 135mm effective focal length.
Hey Bob! I mean Gary.
You’re a riot, John.
I love my 70-200 😁
Good man!
Is anyone else getting an ssl error with clicking on the 5ways link?
Hey sorry about that, Squarespace is having issues today but it should be back up and running now www.headshottools.app/5ways
Sill down for me, but I will keep trying. Thanks!@@GaryHughesOfficial
Gosh I'm not sure what's up, been having people sign up all day with no problem. Maybe try a different browser or a different device?
I think the closest to perfect lens for headshots is the Tamron 35-150mm f2-2.8. I use the Nikon 24-120mm f/4 since that’s what I have.
That sounds like a VERY useful lens, thanks!