50mm: The Versatile Standard
* Pros:
* Wider Field of View: Allows you to capture more of the surrounding environment and tell a story. Great for environmental portraits.
* More Forgiving in Tight Spaces: Easier to use indoors or in confined areas where you can't move back much.
* Generally More Affordable: 50mm lenses, especially the f/1.8 versions, are often very budget-friendly.
* Lightweight and Compact: Easier to carry around and work with for longer periods.
* Versatility: Can also be used for street photography, landscapes, and general photography.
* Cons:
* More Distortion: Can introduce some distortion, especially around the edges of the frame, which can be less flattering for portraits (although this can often be corrected in post-processing).
* May Require You to Get Closer: To get a close-up portrait, you need to be closer to your subject, which some people might find intrusive.
* Less Background Compression: Doesn't compress the background as much as an 85mm, meaning it may be more distracting.
85mm: The Portrait Specialist
* Pros:
* Flattering Perspective: The longer focal length naturally compresses the background, creating a pleasing bokeh (blurred background) that isolates the subject. This also tends to be more flattering for facial features.
* Working Distance: Allows you to maintain a comfortable distance from your subject, which can help them feel more relaxed and natural.
* Excellent Subject Isolation: The compressed background and shallow depth of field help to emphasize the subject and minimize distractions.
* Minimal Distortion: Generally produces less distortion than a 50mm lens.
* Beautiful Bokeh: Creates a creamy, smooth bokeh that's highly desirable for portrait photography.
* Cons:
* Limited in Tight Spaces: Requires more space to work with, making it less ideal for indoor or cramped environments.
* Less Versatile: Primarily suited for portrait photography and may not be as useful for other genres.
* More Expensive: Generally more expensive than 50mm lenses.
* Heavier and Bulkier: Can be more challenging to carry around and work with for extended periods.
* Steeper Learning Curve: Requires a bit more practice to master the shallow depth of field and framing.
Here's a table summarizing the key differences:
| Feature | 50mm | 85mm |
|-------------------|-------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------|
| Field of View | Wider | Narrower |
| Distortion | More | Less |
| Compression | Less | More |
| Working Distance | Closer | Further |
| Space Required | Less | More |
| Versatility | More | Less |
| Cost | Generally Less Expensive | Generally More Expensive |
| Weight | Lighter | Heavier |
| Best For | Environmental portraits, tight spaces, versatility | Headshots, isolating subjects, flattering bokeh |
Which should you choose?
* Choose 50mm if:
* You need a versatile lens for various types of photography.
* You often shoot in tight spaces.
* You want to capture more of the environment in your portraits.
* You're on a budget.
* You prefer a lighter, more compact lens.
* Choose 85mm if:
* You primarily shoot portraits and want the best possible image quality and flattering perspective.
* You want to create a strong sense of subject isolation with beautiful bokeh.
* You have plenty of space to work with.
* You prioritize image quality and subject isolation above all else.
Ultimately, the best way to decide is to try both lenses and see which one you prefer. Renting them before buying is a good option. Consider your shooting style, subject matter, and the look you're trying to achieve. You might even find that owning both is beneficial, as they complement each other and offer different creative possibilities.