A variety of lenses are best for engagement portraits
Engagement portraits are usually more informal than wedding portraits. The couple is dressed more casually, and there is more flexibility in the chosen settings. Nevertheless, the principles of good photography still apply. Composition, backgrounds, flattering images and telling the story of the couples' affection for each other have to be carefully thought out. It is important to get to know the couple, so they are portrayed in a meaningful way.
Sensor Size
The stated focal length of lenses is based on a full-frame camera, the sensor of which is equivalent to a 35mm film camera, or 24 by 36mm. Most digital single lens reflex cameras have a smaller sensor, with a multiplication factor of 1.5, 1.6 or 2.0. A 50mm lens on a camera with a 1.6 factor is equivalent to an 80mm lens. This must be taken into account when choosing a particular lens.
Head and Shoulder Photos
The most recommended lens for portraits of heads and shoulders is 85mm. This allows you to take an intimate photo without getting too close, while leaving natural looking faces. If you take a portrait from too close, it tends to make the nose and ears appear larger than normal. If you are too far away, you tend to lose intimacy. If the maximum aperture is at least f/2.8, it will also blur the background in an artistic way, which is known as an effect called bokeh.
Full-Length Photographs
Informal action photos of the couple moving or full-length photos in front of interesting backgrounds often provide insight into the couples' relationship. A wide-angle lens between 20 to 30mm works best for these. This allows you to get fairly close to the couple while getting the entire scene.
Other Considerations
While the same lenses can be used indoors or outside, lighting will help determine the direction of the photos and whether artificial light is necessary. Sometimes, portraits can be too sharp, showing imperfections that are better left unseen. In that case, a softer focus may be preferable. It is more convenient to use zoom lenses, rather than carrying a larger number of prime lenses, since two lenses can probably cover all options. A 17-55mm and 70-200mm will suffice for almost all portrait situations.
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