5 Essential Lenses Every Portrait Photographer Needs

Iconic by design — the Canon AE-1. Photo by Jason Leung on Unsplash.

By Reflexed TeamLast updated January 12, 2024

5 Essential Lenses Every Portrait Photographer Needs

Building a portrait photography kit? These five lenses should be at the top of your list, whether you're shooting professional headshots or intimate environmental portraits.

1. The Classic 85mm f/1.4 or f/1.8

The 85mm focal length is considered the gold standard for portraiture.


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Sources

  • TikTok Creative Center tag counts • PetaPixel X100V Price Watch 2024
  • TechRadar Used-Gear Report 2025 • Pentax Global Press Release 2024
  • Film Photography Project Community Survey 2024 • Kodak Alaris Press Kit