Yes, a fast lens is nice, but I don't think that alone will get you to where these photos are at. I think a lot of it is lighting and focus. Perfect focus on the eyes, well lit with great light and then yes some PP to bring out the eyes and smooth the skin. I can achieve that look even without using my prime lens so it's definately more than that. Do you have another example of your work we can see that doesn't have a texture over it. That automatically makes it look less "crisp" to me. Oh and you said you were using 1/30 shutter speed which could allow some camera or person movement keeping the photo from being as crisp too. Hope this helps.
__________________
Nikon D700, Nikon D200, 50mm f1.8, 28-80mm, 28-75mm f2.8, 70-300mm 5 speedlights, some stands, umbrellas etc.
My flickr
My Website
|