What lens should I use?

I have just bought a Canon Eos 400D.....it has come with an 18 - 55mm lens. I am still pretty new to photography, well with a decent camera anyway!...and I want to take up people/portrait photography.

Can anyone advise me on what would be the best lens to buy/use?

The one you have is a great learning tool, then when you know how to use it and the camera, you can buy glass that meets your specific needs. If you are really dying to spend money, you could buy the Canon 17-55 F2.8 IS USM for about $1000, or for less the Tamron 17-50 F2.8 for about $450.

Another possibility, and not to costly, for portrait photos with the 400D is the Canon EF 50 f/1.8. However, I'd recommend that you just use the 18-55 for awhile, get the hang of the camera, and then decide what the kit lens doesn't do, that you want it to.

Welcome to POTN!

I agree with runninmann, the 50/1.8 is an excellent starter lens for portrait photography, and just low light photography in general.

I have a 50mm f/1.4 and it churns out portraits like butter.

50 f/1.8 great little lens for the $$$

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If you didn't already know, 50mm and higher will usually give you more flattering portrait images. Wider than that tends to exaggerate features like noses.

Thanks guys, good advice, ill stick with it.

I just have to echo the idea that 50 1.8 - is great starter lens for general purpose. After using it for some time you'll realise what lens are better for you personaly...then....ge​t ready to spend money...lots and lots of money))))
Good Luck!Have a nice exposure!

Welcome to the forum. Yours is also the most common question here and take some time to read through some of those posts before you rush out to get a lens

That's right, don't get into a spending spree on that 75$ lens

Seriously, get that 50/1.8, it will teach you a lot of things like
- whether or not you like fast primes
- what image quality is

Best regards,
Andy

85 f/1.8...great focal length and good range.

I would start with Canon 50mm 1.8.
It's a great lens and most of all.. it is very affordable and resalable. I would also recommend that you buy a 2 or 3 stops ND filter for it.
Because your 400D has a 1/4000 max shutter speed and it is easy to hit that mark when you are shooting outside during the day light(cause to over expose).

yup, love the 50 1.8 as a portrait lens.