Best Nikon D7200 DSLR Lenses for Portrait Photography

Nikon D7200 is a highly versatile DSLR camera designed to outperform in both still photography and videography. With its 24.2-megapixel resolution and advanced 51-point autofocus system, it delivers an exceptional shooting experience. The DSLR's constant shooting speed of up to 6 frames per second (fps) ensures crisp and accurate captures, making it ideal for capturing fleeting moments or high-action scenes.

Additionally, the Nikon D7200 supports HD 1080p video recording, enhanced Wi-Fi and NFC technology for easy image and video transfer, and a 3.2-inch touchscreen display that offers a clear preview in various lighting conditions. These features make the D7200 a powerful tool for photographers of all skill levels.

Top Lenses for Nikon D7200

To achieve professional-quality portraits, a suitable lens is just as important as the camera body. Here are some top lenses that complement the Nikon D7200 for portrait work:

Nikon 18-200mm F/3.5-5.6G IF-ED AF-S VR II DX Telephoto Zoom Lens

This versatile lens offers a wide range of focal lengths, from wide-angle to telephoto, making it ideal for various portrait setups. Its advanced optics and VR (Vibration Reduction) system ensure quick and accurate focusing, even in low light conditions.

Nikon AF-S Nikkor 50mm f/1.4G Prime Lens

For a more compact and cost-effective option, the 50mm f/1.4G is an excellent choice. With a wide maximum aperture, this lens excels in low-light situations, delivering sharp and detailed images with beautiful bokeh effects. Often priced under $600, it is a popular entry-level choice for portrait photographers.

Nikon AF-S 85mm F/1.8G Prime DSLR Lens

Better known for its capabilities in portrait photography, the 85mm f/1.8G lens offers a narrower field of view compared to the 50mm, making it ideal for isolating subjects and creating a soft background. This lens typically retails around $900, providing excellent value for professional and advanced amateur photographers.

Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED VR Lens

This lens is perfect for those longer focal lengths, ideal for capturing portraits from a distance or for group shots. Its VR system helps reduce the effects of camera shake, ensuring stable and clear images. While this lens can be a bit more expensive, its flexibility makes it a worthwhile investment for photographers who need a versatile telephoto range.

Third-Party Lens Options

While Nikon's lenses are top-notch, some third-party lenses can offer comparable or even superior performance at a lower cost. For example, the Tamron 90mm f/2.8 Macro is highly regarded for its sharpness and color rendition, making it an excellent choice for head and shoulder portraits. The lens can be purchased for around $360 in new condition or slightly less used, making it a cost-effective option.

Another option is the Tokina 11-16mm f/2.8 AT-X116 Pro DX II Digital Zoom Lens. While it is primarily a wide-angle lens, its ability to capture expansive backgrounds can add unique dimensions to portrait shots, particularly in more cinematic settings.

Personal Recommendations

I personally use the Nikon AF-S 50mm f/1.8 G for my portraits. This lens is incredibly versatile and works well for full-body or small group shots. It is affordable, with a used or refurbished version often priced around $200. The older AF 50mm f/1.8 D, which can be found for around $100, is also an excellent option for its sharpness and price.

For more specialized shots, I use the Tamron 90mm f/2.8 Macro. This lens is very sharpened and produces nice color rendition. Most of my shots are taken with an aperture of f/5.6, which keeps the eyes in focus while softening the background. This aperture is also the optimal spot for maximum detail.

Conclusion

When choosing the best DSLR lens for Nikon D7200 for portrait work, consider your budget, intended use, and the type of portrait you wish to achieve. Whether you opt for Nikon's own lenses or explore third-party options, there are numerous high-quality portrait lenses available to enhance your photography and capture stunning, professional-grade images.