Whatever kind of photography you prefer, having a great camera lens can make all the difference. In selecting the ideal lens for product photography, several things need to be taken into account that can influence the final product.
Considering the end goal, a few elements are essential in your selection choice as they will significantly impact the final product.
And the most crucial part of the process is the lens selection in relation to the camera. However, there are lots more to consider while trying to deliver the perfect images that might be used for yourself or a client.
This usually makes a lot of people apprehensive about doing it themselves. Still, it is simple for a self-starter or a budget-conscious person to get into, as some affordable lenses can easily be found along with some framing or background board from hobby lobby weekly ad, Amazon or eBay. But here are a few aspects to keep in mind to help ease your search;
Aperture
Aperture refers to the maximum opening of the lens and, inadvertently, the amount of light that the lens lets in. It’s usually represented by an “f-number” but better referenced as an “f.”. For product photography, a lens with a wide aperture can create an exciting bokeh effect when the background is blurred, and the product image itself is enhanced, as the little light ensures that the object in focus is the highlight of the shot.
Focal Length
The focal length for a lens is a critical part and will be a valid point regarding the price and capability, as it is crucial to have a lens that can zoom in on the product and clear any distortion.
For product photography, 50mm up to 200mm is generally a safe bracket in which there are various lens choices you can pair up with your camera to get the desired effect.
In-Built Stabilization
The development of image stabilization is a critical component towards the final product as great image stabilization allows shooting at products without the need for a tripod or stand of some sort since we don’t have to worry about standing incredibly still trying to avoid shaky hands.
This feature always adds toward the pricing and quality of the final product, and this is apparent when images of moving products are considered. So make sure to test that.
Minimum Focusing Distance
Your lens should have a suitable minimum focusing capability within a short distance. This shows how much closer the lens can focus. And to distill it into phone camera aspects, it’s best exemplified by macro modes, which are becoming a common lens type as it’s excellent at putting the focus on really small subjects, Like microchips or flowers.
Lens Quality
The quality and material choice are also important when considering the level of professionalism and the intended outcome. Heavier lenses always have better materials, durability and tech; however, this could be a drawback in a scenario that requires you to keep moving without a tripod.
However, despite being heavier, these are usually built to last and have a level of notoriety amongst professional circles. This can be countered by adding a side handle.
Here are our two best picks from the top-tier manufacturers and a few sprinkled in for a more affordable choice of Lenses for Product Photography;
Best from Canon
- Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L IS USM Macro
- Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM (Best Price in class)
Best from Nikon
- Nikon AF-S 105 mm f/2.8G VR Micro
- Nikon AF-S 50mm f/1.8G (Most Compact and Handy for Beginners)
Best from Sony
- Sony 90mm f/2.8 Macro G
- Sony FE 50mm f/1.8G
Best from FujiFilm
- Fujifilm XF 56mm (85mm) F/1.2 Lens
- Fujinon XF 50-140mm f/2.8
Best from Third-Parties
- Sigma 24-105mm f/4.0 Art DG HSM Zoom Lens for Sony A-Mount (Best value zoom lens)
- Tamron SP AF 90mm F/2.8 Di MACRO