50mm Advantages:
* Versatile: The 50mm is a versatile lens, useful not only for portraits but also for street photography, general photography, and even some landscapes.
* Wider Field of View: The wider field of view allows you to include more of the environment in your portraits, telling a story or setting a scene.
* Closer to the Subject: You need to be physically closer to your subject, which can foster a more intimate connection.
* More Forgiving in Tight Spaces: Useful in smaller studios or indoor locations where you might not have much room to move.
* Usually More Affordable: Generally, 50mm lenses (especially the f/1.8 versions) are more affordable than 85mm lenses.
* Less Compression: Gives a more natural look with less compression. Features appear more proportional.
50mm Disadvantages:
* Less Subject Isolation: The wider field of view can make it harder to isolate the subject from a busy background.
* More Distortion at Close Range: If you get too close, especially for headshots, you might start to see some distortion (e.g., a slightly enlarged nose). Requires careful posing and distance.
* Requires More Subject Interaction: Being closer requires more active communication and direction with the subject.
85mm Advantages:
* Excellent Subject Isolation: The narrower field of view and natural compression make it easier to isolate the subject and create a blurred background (bokeh).
* Flattering Compression: Compresses facial features, which many find aesthetically pleasing and flattering (softening lines and features).
* More Working Distance: Allows you to be further away from the subject, which can make them feel more comfortable and natural. This can be particularly helpful for shy or self-conscious subjects.
* Great for Headshots and Close-Ups: The compression and subject isolation make it ideal for headshots and close-up portraits.
* Smooth Bokeh: Typically produces beautiful, creamy bokeh, especially with fast apertures (f/1.8, f/1.4, etc.).
85mm Disadvantages:
* Less Versatile: Less useful for general photography compared to a 50mm.
* Requires More Space: You need more room to move around, which can be a challenge in small studios or indoor environments.
* Can Feel Distant: The longer focal length can create a sense of distance between you and the subject.
* More Expensive: Generally, 85mm lenses (especially fast ones) are more expensive than 50mm lenses.
* Can Compress Too Much: In some cases, the compression can feel unnatural or overly smoothed, especially if you overuse it.
Here's a table summarizing the key differences:
| Feature | 50mm | 85mm |
|---------------------|---------------------------------------|----------------------------------------|
| Versatility | High | Lower |
| Field of View | Wider | Narrower |
| Subject Isolation | Lower | Higher |
| Compression | Less | More |
| Working Distance | Closer | Further |
| Cost | Generally Lower | Generally Higher |
| Distortion | More noticeable at close range | Less noticeable |
| Space Requirements | Less | More |
| Subject Comfort | Requires more direct interaction | Can provide more distance and comfort |
| Best for | Environmental portraits, full body shots | Headshots, close-ups, isolated subjects|
In Conclusion:
* Choose 50mm if: You want a versatile lens for portraits and other types of photography, want to include more of the environment, work in tight spaces, or are on a budget. It's a great learning lens.
* Choose 85mm if: You prioritize subject isolation, flattering compression, and beautiful bokeh, have the space to work with, and primarily focus on headshots or close-up portraits.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which focal length is right for you is to try them both out. Rent or borrow each lens and take some portraits to see which one you prefer. You might even find that you like both and want to have them both in your kit! Many professional portrait photographers use both, switching between them depending on the specific needs of the shoot.