50mm Lens: The Versatile Option
* Pros:
* Versatility: The 50mm lens is a highly versatile lens that can be used for a wide range of shots beyond portraits. You can use it for environmental portraits, street photography, casual snapshots, and even some landscape photography.
* Field of View: It's a more 'normal' field of view that is similar to how the human eye perceives the world. This makes it easier to compose shots and feel connected to your subject.
* Affordability: 50mm lenses are often more affordable, especially the f/1.8 versions. This makes them a great entry point for photographers looking to build their lens collection.
* Smaller and Lighter: 50mm lenses are generally smaller and lighter than 85mm lenses, making them easier to carry around for longer periods.
* Works Well in Tight Spaces: The wider field of view allows you to shoot portraits in smaller rooms or studios where you might not have enough space to back up with an 85mm lens.
* Environmental Portraits: Better for capturing the subject within their surroundings and telling a story about their context.
* Cons:
* Less Subject Isolation: The shallower depth of field is harder to achieve at the same aperture and distance than with an 85mm, resulting in less background blur (bokeh) and less subject isolation.
* Can Distort Facial Features: While minimal, there can be slight distortion, especially if you get too close to your subject. This can make features like noses appear slightly larger.
* Requires Getting Closer: You need to get physically closer to your subject, which might make some people feel uncomfortable or less relaxed, affecting the portrait's naturalness.
85mm Lens: The Classic Portrait Lens
* Pros:
* Beautiful Bokeh: The longer focal length allows for a much shallower depth of field, creating a creamy, blurred background that isolates the subject beautifully. This is a major draw for many portrait photographers.
* Flattering Perspective: The compression of the 85mm lens is very flattering to facial features. It tends to minimize perspective distortion, making noses appear smaller and overall creating a more pleasing image.
* More Comfortable Distance: Allows you to work from a more comfortable distance, making your subject feel more relaxed and natural.
* Professional Look: The shallow depth of field and flattering perspective give portraits a more professional and polished look.
* Great for Headshots and Tight Portraits: Ideal for focusing on the subject's face and expression.
* Cons:
* Less Versatile: Primarily a portrait lens. Less useful for other types of photography.
* More Expensive: Generally more expensive than 50mm lenses, especially fast aperture versions.
* Larger and Heavier: Can be more cumbersome to carry around.
* Requires More Space: Needs more room to work. Can be challenging to use in small studios or tight spaces.
* Less Environmental Context: The tight field of view makes it difficult to capture the subject's surroundings.
Here's a Table Summarizing the Key Differences:
| Feature | 50mm | 85mm |
|--------------------|------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------|
| Versatility | High | Low |
| Bokeh | Less pronounced, harder to achieve | More pronounced, easier to achieve |
| Facial Flattery | Can have slight distortion if too close | More flattering, less distortion |
| Subject Distance | Requires getting closer | More comfortable distance |
| Space Required | Less | More |
| Affordability | Typically more affordable | Typically more expensive |
| Size & Weight | Smaller and lighter | Larger and heavier |
| Use Cases | Environmental portraits, street, general | Headshots, isolated portraits, studio |
Which One Should You Choose?
* Choose the 50mm if:
* You're on a budget.
* You need a versatile lens for various types of photography.
* You often shoot in tight spaces.
* You want to capture environmental portraits.
* You're just starting out and want a good all-around lens.
* Choose the 85mm if:
* You prioritize beautiful background blur and subject isolation.
* You want the most flattering perspective for portraits.
* You primarily shoot headshots and tight portraits.
* You have enough space to work with.
* You're looking for a classic portrait lens.
Ultimately, the best lens for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. Many photographers eventually own both a 50mm and an 85mm (and often other focal lengths as well) because they each excel in different situations. If you can, try renting both lenses and experimenting with them before making a purchase. Consider the type of portraits you envision yourself creating, and the kind of environment you'll typically be shooting in.