Choosing the Right Lens for Portrait Photography: Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 vs Sigma 17-50mm f/2.8 with a Canon T6
When it comes to portrait photography, the choice of lens is critical for capturing the right essence of your subjects. For a Canon T6, you might be considering between two Sigma lenses: the 18-35mm f/1.8 and the 17-50mm f/2.8. Both offer distinct advantages and are suited for different types of portrait photography. Let's explore the nuances of each lens and help you make an informed decision.
Understanding Portraits vs. Wide Angle Lenses
The debate between the 18-35mm f/1.8 and the 17-50mm f/2.8 is often rooted in the purpose and perspective of your portraits. While the 18-35mm f/1.8 offers a wide angle of about 18mm to 35mm, it is not typically recommended for portrait photography. Wide angles (around 35mm and below) can distort features and create a less flattering perspective for faces.
My recommendation: For traditional head and shoulders portraits, particularly for a cropped sensor camera like the Canon T6, the 17-50mm f/2.8 lens is more suitable. This lens provides an approximate equivalent focal length of 70mm, which is commonly used for portraits and can handle full-body length shots as well.
Performance and Imaging Quality
The 17-50mm f/2.8 lens from Sigma is part of their newer Art line, known for delivering excellent image quality. This lens offers a versatile focal range that can adapt to various settings, from close headshots to more expansive portraits. Its constant f/2.8 maximum aperture ensures good light handling, making it suitable for indoor and low-light conditions.
On the other hand, the 18-35mm f/1.8 lens, although part of Sigma’s Art range, is less ideal for portrait photography. It typically excels in landscapes and architecture due to its wide angle perspective. While it offers a shallower depth of field at f/1.8, which can create beautiful background bokeh, the distortion at such wide angles may not be flattering for your subjects.
Professional Perspectives
Many professional photographers suggest starting with a longer lens, such as the 85mm f/1.4, which is widely considered the gold standard for portrait photography. However, if you are on a budget or prefer a zoom lens for versatility, the 17-50mm f/2.8 is a solid choice. Some photographers, like Del de la Haye, suggest the Sigma 150mm macro lens for more spatial portraits.
Limitations and Recommendations
It's important to consider the specific type of portraits you intend to capture and the environment in which you will be shooting. If you are mainly shooting indoor portraits or aiming for something more grand, a longer lens might be more beneficial. For outdoor portraits, understanding lighting and composition is crucial.
As always, the key to great portraits is not just about the lens but also about the subject and the overall composition. Experimentation and practice are essential for mastering portrait photography. If you are still learning, don't limit yourself too strictly, but instead, explore various techniques and equipment to broaden your skills.
Conclusion
The 17-50mm f/2.8 Sigma lens is better suited for headshots and cropped sensor cameras like the Canon T6. It provides the necessary focal length for flattering portraits while offering good image quality and versatility. However, as your skills and needs grow, consider exploring longer lenses for more advanced portrait photography.