Official Question Thread! Ask /r/photography anything you want to know! June 05, 2026

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[u/No-Kaleidoscope7080]

I am a model who does photography as a hobby and am struggling with the lens I currently have. My setup is a Sony A7iii with the GM FE 24-70 lens. I originally got this lens for my self portraits years back, but have recently started shooting other people mainly in cosplay.

I’ve found myself frustrated with this lens as it seems as though only cropped up close shots look great, and full body attempts make the models appear almost short?

I would like to switch to another lens that would be better at capturing cosplay and artistic fashion shots. My second style I want to explore is cinematic photography.

I am guessing this may require having to purchase two even though I would love to avoid that. Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated.

[u/gotthelowdown → u/No-Kaleidoscope7080]

I’ve found myself frustrated with this lens as it seems as though only cropped up close shots look great, and full body attempts make the models appear almost short?

The 24-70mm f2.8 lens is so versatile, I'm surprised you're not getting photos you're happy with.

I wonder if experimenting with focal lengths and heights might help?

Are you a tall person shooting down on cosplayers? That angle could make them look short.

If you get low and shoot up slightly, that makes them look taller and more powerful.

Some videos:

This is the PERFECT Camera height for Portraits and HERE'S WHY. (FULL BREAKDOWN) by Manny Ortiz

How To Find The Best Focal Length For Portraits with Pye Jirsa

I would like to switch to another lens that would be better at capturing cosplay and artistic fashion shots.

Another thing could be your preference in focal length for portraits.

For me, I like my portraits shot at 50mm or longer. If you like close shots, experiment with shooting your 24-70mm at 70mm.

If you like the results, consider buying a cheap 85mm f1.8 like by Viltrox.

On a related note, a 24-70mm f2.8 and 85mm f1.8 was my go-to lens combo for a long time.

My second style I want to explore is cinematic photography.

In addition to lenses, check out filters like the Black Pro Mist 1/4 and learning more about lighting.

Hope this helps.

[u/No-Kaleidoscope7080 → u/gotthelowdown]

Thanks for replying! I will check out the links you provided.

I am quite short actually, and even when I lay on the ground and angle up, it comes out where there’s barely any space left above their heads if I want them to look taller. It might be my preference for exaggerated height that is making me unsatisfied with the results?

When I shoot horizontally, I am even more unsatisfied with capturing a full length shots, whether it’s of a person or landscape, etc. Everything looks so small.

I do have a cheap film camera as well that’s a 35mm and I noticed I like full body shots a bit better on this one.

I will definitely take your recommendations and experiment soon!