What lens characteristics work best for beauty photography and makeup videos on a Canon M50 Mark II?
Asked 2/26/2024
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I have a Canon M50 Mark II and want to film makeup tutorials and take beauty portraits. What lens traits should I look for to get flattering facial proportions and a practical working setup? I may be shooting near a mirror or makeup lights, so space could be limited.
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
2y ago
2 Answers
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I. Use the one you already have, Probably the 15-45mm.
Use it on the longest focal length, at 45mm. The longer the focal length the less distorted the face is.
See if the distance needed for that focal length fits in your designated space. You probably have your camera next to a mirror or some makeup lights.
The camera will be around 1.5 meters away.
- The other approach is the inverse. Define your space, and the best position on your camera, and then test the necessary zoom needed for a pleasant framing.
II. Only then, when you find a specific limitation on the lens you already have, you can think about getting another specific lens.
A portrait lens for that camera is around 50-85mm, but you will need significant space.
(Not asked, probably you need to focus on good lighting instead of a new lens)
Originally by user37321. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user37321
2y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
For beauty and makeup work, the main thing to consider is focal length and how much room you have.
A longer focal length gives a more flattering look for faces because it reduces wide-angle facial distortion. On your M50 Mark II, start by using your current 15–45mm lens at the long end, around 45mm, and see how that looks. A setup around roughly 1.5 meters from the subject may work, but the real test is whether that distance fits your shooting space, mirror, and lighting layout.
A good approach is:
- Set up your camera where it can realistically go.
- Frame yourself the way you want.
- Use the longest focal length that still fits your space.
If your current lens can’t give you the framing or look you want, then consider a portrait-style lens. For this camera, something in the roughly 50–85mm range can work well for beauty shots, but it will require more shooting distance.
Before buying a new lens, identify the specific limitation of your current lens. Also, good lighting may matter as much as—or more than—the lens for makeup content.
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