Although it doesn't need to be shadowless, soft light is the best light for photographing people.
Above: A little fill-flash was used to add some subtle illumination to this man's face.
Above right: Open shade always provides a soft, flattering light source.
Right: In addition to using a soft light source, sometimes you'll want to back away from your subject to show a little bit of the surroundings.
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Photography should be fun and therefore, our camera equipment should be tools that allow us to fully enjoy our time in the field. While carrying every lens, filter, and camera that you own may provide you with a wealth of choices, it can stifle creativity when the focus becomes the equipment, rather than the vision of your finished photograph.
My Nikon FMs are always loaded and ready to shoot. Your lens choice is a matter of photographic priorities. My two workhorse lenses for portraiture are a 24mm wide-angle and an 85mm moderate telephoto. The 85mm lens is great for close-up views of faces or upper-body photos. I prefer not to crowd my subject while working on various expressions and poses. I focus on the person's eye nearest the camera.
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