50mm Lens for Portraits:
Pros:
* Versatility: 50mm is a highly versatile focal length, good for a variety of situations beyond just portraits. You can use it for street photography, landscapes, and general everyday shooting.
* Field of View: A wider field of view allows you to include more of the environment in your portrait, which can be great for environmental portraits.
* Closer Connection: You need to be closer to your subject, which can create a more intimate connection and easier communication.
* More Forgiving for Beginners: The wider field of view can be more forgiving in terms of composition, especially when starting out.
* Often Less Expensive: 50mm lenses are often more affordable than 85mm lenses, especially at wider apertures (like f/1.8).
Cons:
* Perspective Distortion: Can introduce slight perspective distortion, making features like noses appear larger if you get too close.
* Less Background Blur (Bokeh): Generally, less background blur than an 85mm lens (especially at the same aperture), although a fast 50mm lens (like f/1.4 or f/1.8) can still produce beautiful bokeh.
* Requires Closer Proximity: Being too close to the subject can make them feel uncomfortable or self-conscious.
85mm Lens for Portraits:
Pros:
* Flattering Perspective: The compression effect of an 85mm lens is very flattering for portraits, as it minimizes perspective distortion and gives a more natural representation of facial features.
* Beautiful Bokeh: Creates a creamy, blurred background (bokeh) that beautifully isolates the subject. This is a key reason why 85mm is often preferred for portraits.
* Comfortable Distance: Allows you to maintain a comfortable distance from your subject, which can help them feel more relaxed.
* Good for Tight Spaces: Despite being longer, it can work well in smaller spaces because you don't have to be right on top of your subject.
Cons:
* Less Versatile: Less versatile than a 50mm for general photography.
* Limited Field of View: A narrower field of view means you need more space to frame your subject, and you'll include less of the environment.
* Can Feel Disconnected: The greater distance can make it harder to connect with your subject, especially if you're directing them.
* Can Be More Expensive: Generally, 85mm lenses are more expensive than 50mm lenses, especially those with wide apertures.
* More Sensitive to Camera Shake: A longer focal length amplifies camera shake, requiring faster shutter speeds or image stabilization.
Here's a summary table:
| Feature | 50mm Lens | 85mm Lens |
|----------------------|----------------------------|----------------------------|
| Versatility | High | Lower |
| Perspective | More distortion | Less distortion |
| Bokeh | Less prominent | More prominent |
| Subject Distance | Closer | Further |
| Environment | Includes more | Isolates subject more |
| Price | Generally less expensive | Generally more expensive |
| Difficulty (Beginners)| Easier to compose | Can be trickier |
When to Choose Which:
* Choose 50mm if:
* You want a versatile lens for various types of photography.
* You're on a budget.
* You want to include more of the environment in your portraits.
* You prefer a closer, more intimate connection with your subject.
* You're a beginner and want something more forgiving.
* Choose 85mm if:
* You primarily shoot portraits and want the most flattering perspective and beautiful bokeh.
* You want to maintain a comfortable distance from your subject.
* You have enough space to work with the narrower field of view.
* Budget is not a primary concern.
Ultimately, the best way to decide is to try both! Rent a lens of each focal length and shoot with them to see which one fits your shooting style and preferences. You might even find that you prefer one for certain types of portraits (e.g., 50mm for environmental portraits, 85mm for headshots). Many photographers eventually own both and use them depending on the situation.