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Two of the most asked questions we get at STC is “What lens did you use for that shot?” and “What is your favorite lens?” Our answer? Well they all are because they all serve a different purpose. Each set up may present different requirements and therefore we must determine which lens best fits the particular situation we’re presented with. There is no magic lens that fits all situations but we do favor some more than others and will discuss a few of our favorites here.



First let me say that when we plan a shoot and choose that great location or perhaps even construct a set in a studio, we choose models, wardrobe, plan a lighting scenario but also must make our choice of lenses to best capture all of it. Generally speaking we may and do use several, not only to give us more variety of shots but also maximize our opportunities and incorporate all the necessary elements into the images so the client has more choices from our shoot.


Some years back the best lenses were most always prime lenses, a fixed focal length lens with a wide aperture, allowing you to shoot in low light with the added benefit of having a shallow depth of field at your disposal too. But lenses have evolved quite a bit. Today we have computer-designed optics of far superior quality allowing zoom lenses to be considered at or near the top in quality, just as it’s fixed focal length cousins were years ago. Let me take you on a journey, so to speak, of favorite lenses from fixed to zoom and wide to long, each with a purpose and unique ability to bring life to your images.

There are times when a location just presents itself with a wonderful view. It just calls out to us to shoot with a wider lens and to incorporate the sheer beauty of not only our subject but that of a spectacular location. My 20mm f2.8 wide angle is perfect for that and is truly one of our favorites because it captures more than just a compressed image and it can vignette the sky as well. With proper exposure and perhaps a little post work, you can bring out saturated colors, a richness of tone and capture a beautiful blue sky with striking views that any editor of a magazine would love. I would say it definitely has a place in my working bag.

20mm f2.8   |   Photo: Jarmo Pohjaniemi

Moving on up in focal range, one of the most sought after portrait lenses is the 85mm. We fell in love with the 85mm 1.2 and consider it a perfect portrait lens. It has been described as the portrait photographers dream come true lens. It’s unique characteristics when shooting at its wider apertures produces beautiful subject sharpness while giving you a wonderful bokeh (background focus blur), and is practically unmatched. Your portraits, fashion or glamour images will just pop off the screen.

85mm f1.2   |   Photo: Doug Hill

While we are on fixed lenses and talking bokeh, the 300mm f2.8 has plenty when shot wide open as well. It allows you to compress the foreground and background while giving a shallow depth of field. Not only is it a staple in sports but swimwear and glamour photography as well. We cannot imagine not having it at hand when the situation calls for it. Portraits can take on a whole new look as well. The separation of subject and background while compressing the depth of field can yield absolutely beautiful images. Yes, you can even shoot a portrait with it, although you may have to step back more than a bit. If you don’t have that much room you always have some wonderful choices of zoom lenses.

300mm f2.8   |   Photo: Jarmo Pohjaniemi

There are many focal ranges of zooms but the two most popular standards are the 24-70 f2.8 and the 70-200 f2.8 Both have their uses and conveniences. Both should be in your bag. The wide capability of the 24-70 f2.8 will help you in situations where a longer lens is not possible and can yield beautiful images. But for sheer usability in focal range for glamour, the workhorse of zoom lenses is the 70-200 f2.8. A lens, which I would bet most of you serious about photography already own. Its versatility and focal range fits perfectly into what we do. You can shoot full length, three quarter length or even portraits with it.

24-70mm f2.8   |   Photo: Jarmo Pohjaniemi

Shooting at up to 200mm you can compress the background to separate your model from distracting elements with wonderful results. Canon and Nikon both make excellent versions in this focal range and either can produce outstanding images when properly utilized. I might add, if your on a budget, the F4 version is also an excellent lens and you can save up to $1,000 over the f2.8 one. Most of these have image stabilization as well. That is important when hand holding a heaver and longer focal length lens in minimizing camera shake motion and getting a sharp, properly focused image.

70-200mm f2.8   |   Photo: Jarmo Pohjaniemi

Whenever your shooting with any longer or heaver lens, you may want to consider using a tripod or some steady support to not only keep your images sharp, but to give you consistent composition and framing. If you have ever seen me shoot you know that I often work with one, just for those purposes. Plus there is a side benefit too, a tripod can help alleviate fatigue from a long days shooting.

So there you have it, my favorite lenses and an answer to the question. Once again,

there is no “One Perfect Lens” for our glamour photography

Each has a purpose, a use, and a uniqueness to take advantage of. Try a few of them when you can and allow them to inspire you! I am sure you will find there will be many new and exciting images that can be created with each of them.

35-350mm f5.6. Focal lenght 180mm   |   Photo: Jarmo Pohjaniemi

24-70mm f2.6   |   Photo: Jarmo Pohjaniemi and Doug Hill

The image above will appear as a full page advertisement in Playboy Intl. magazine which will be available for viewing at the STC March seminar. Learn more about how to choose the correct lens for the desired results in the STC digital lighting books.

Jarmo Pohjaniemi

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