The Disadvantages of Using Ultra Wide Angle Lenses for Portraits
Photography is an art form that requires a delicate balance of creativity and technical skill. When it comes to portrait photography, the choice of lens can significantly impact the final outcome. While ultra wide-angle lenses offer unique perspectives, they also bring several disadvantages that photographers need to consider.
Distortion
One of the most notable drawbacks of ultra wide-angle lenses for portraits is distortion. These lenses tend to exaggerate facial features, especially when the subject is positioned close to the camera. This can result in exaggerated noses, larger foreheads, and smaller chins, which may not always be flattering. As a photographer, understanding how to minimize or control this effect is crucial. Proper placement of the subject in the frame, typically closer to the center or outer third, can help reduce distortion.
Perspective Issues
The expansive field of view of ultra wide-angle lenses can lead to strange proportions, making the subject appear smaller or less prominent within the frame. Additionally, this can make the background appear much larger and more intrusive, detracting from the subject's presence. To combat this, photographers might need to adjust their positioning or use post-processing techniques to correct the perspective.
Limited Depth of Field
Another disadvantage is the challenge in achieving a shallow depth of field with ultra wide-angle lenses. While a shallow depth of field can beautifully isolate the subject from the background, the wide angle of view can make it more difficult to do so effectively. This can make it challenging to achieve the same level of separation as with a standard or telephoto lens.
Background Clutter
The wide angle of view captures more of the surroundings, which can introduce distracting elements into the composition. These elements can divert attention away from the subject, making the portrait less effective. Careful framing and post-processing can help manage these issues, but it adds an extra layer of complexity to the shooting and editing process.
Lighting Challenges
Lighting is also a significant challenge when using ultra wide-angle lenses. The wide angle of view can cause significant variations in light falling on the subject and the background, leading to uneven exposure. This can result in highlights and shadows that are challenging to balance, potentially leading to overexposed or underexposed parts of the image. As a photographer, understanding how to use available light or artificial lighting effectively is essential to overcome this obstacle.
Physical Space and Subject Interaction
To achieve a flattering composition with an ultra wide-angle lens, the photographer often needs to get very close to the subject. This can be uncomfortable for both the photographer and the subject and may not always be practical. Additionally, the close proximity required for composition can make it harder to engage with the subject, potentially affecting the naturalness of their expression and pose. Communication and ease of use are key to overcoming these challenges.
The considerations and challenges mentioned above highlight the importance of thoughtful planning and technique when using ultra wide-angle lenses for portrait photography. While these lenses can create unique and interesting images, understanding the limitations and how to work around them is crucial for achieving successful outcomes.
For example, in my experience, I often used wide-angle lenses for environmental portraits in magazine assignments. Careful placement of the subject within a narrow vertical portion of the ultra wide-angle lens (close to the center or outer third) helped reduce distortion. This allowed me to create dynamic, engaging images that told a story about the subject. A prime example is a portrait of a TV weatherman who enjoyed flying planes. By placing the subject within a controlled environment and utilizing a 21mm lens, I was able to capture an image that, despite the minimalist setup, conveyed a rich narrative.
Understanding the limitations of ultra wide-angle lenses and utilizing these lenses thoughtfully can lead to compelling and unique portrait photography. By carefully planning and executing each shot, photographers can minimize the disadvantages and maximize the creative possibilities of these versatile lenses.