Which lens for portrait photography?

[boosangel72]

I own the nikon 18-135mm lens and have been advised to buy the nikon 18-70mm lens for portraits? Should I buy this lens for portraits? I have been told it is alot sharper and better in low light than my 18-135mm lens. I also have the 18-55mm lens that came with my camera. I have not tried it as the 18-135mm lens stays on my camera.
I have the nikon D40x camera later on I plan to buy another camera one that does have the ability to use all lens where as you know D40x cannot. Ritz camera store suggested 2 actually stating the f stop on 18-135mm wasn't right for portraits:
Sigma 18-50mm
&
Nikon 18-70mm

[geoffrey_0007]

The correct true-to-image rendition lens is and was always 95 or 100mm, for portraight work, that will never change. if you use 70mm, you will be compromising some of this 1:1 rendition.
The 28-30mm gives the best wide-angle shot
The 50-55mm is the good general all rounder for most day to day shots.

[fhotoace]

Based upon a using a 35mm SLR, there are too commonly used lenses. The 85mm and 105mm

If you are using a Nikon DSLR (other than the D3) you will have to do the math to figure out what the exact focal length on your zoom lens you need to use.

Who told you to use a 18-70mm lens vs. the 18-135mm you already have ... that would be a complete waste of money since the new lens covers the same focal lengths up to 70mm of your existing one. I find it interesting how others can spend your money without (apparently) a thought

In the end it is up to your to determine which lens will provide you with the best combination of focal length and Bokeh

http://www.kenrockwell.com/tech/bokeh.htm
http://www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/bokeh-comparison.htm

[pinback13]

85 and 105 would be the best solution but also give the 50mm 1.8 a look. It's way cheaper and gives really sharp results. The 18-70 will not give you any real advantage over the 18-135mm you already have.