50mm Lens: The Versatile All-Rounder
* Pros:
* More Affordable: Typically cheaper than an 85mm lens, especially fast prime versions.
* Wider Field of View: Allows you to include more of the surrounding environment in your portraits. This is great for environmental portraits that tell a story about the subject's location or lifestyle.
* Versatile: Good for both full-body and upper-body shots.
* Good in Tight Spaces: Easier to work with in smaller rooms or crowded locations where you can't move back very far.
* Generally Lighter and More Compact: Easier to carry around for extended periods.
* Cons:
* Less Background Compression: Doesn't compress the background as much as an 85mm, so backgrounds can be more distracting.
* Can Distort Facial Features (Slightly): When used too close to the subject, it can slightly distort features, especially the nose. This is less pronounced than with wider lenses like 35mm, but it's still a consideration.
* Requires More Distance: You may need to get closer to your subject for a close-up portrait, which some subjects may find less comfortable.
85mm Lens: The Portrait Specialist
* Pros:
* Flattering Perspective: Compresses features, making faces appear more pleasing and natural. Often considered the most flattering focal length for portraits.
* Excellent Background Blur (Bokeh): Creates a beautiful, shallow depth of field, isolating the subject and blurring distracting backgrounds. This is often a key reason why photographers choose 85mm lenses.
* Working Distance: Allows you to work from a comfortable distance, making the subject feel less self-conscious.
* Great for Headshots and Close-Ups: Ideal for capturing intimate details and expressions.
* Stronger Isolation: Helps to isolate the subject from the background, drawing more attention to them.
* Cons:
* More Expensive: Typically more expensive than a 50mm lens, especially fast prime versions.
* Longer Focal Length: Can be difficult to use in tight spaces or smaller rooms. You need more room to move back.
* Less Versatile: Not as useful for wider shots or environmental portraits.
* Heavier and Bulkier: Can be more challenging to carry around, especially on longer shoots.
* Requires More Skill to Use: The shallow depth of field can be challenging to master, requiring precise focusing.
Here's a table summarizing the key differences:
| Feature | 50mm | 85mm |
|--------------------|-----------------------|--------------------------|
| Price | Generally Cheaper | Generally More Expensive |
| Field of View | Wider | Narrower |
| Background Blur | Less | More |
| Compression | Less | More |
| Distortion | Slight Potential | Minimal |
| Working Distance| Closer | Further |
| Versatility | Higher | Lower |
| Size/Weight | Lighter/More Compact | Heavier/Bulkier |
| Best For | Env. Portraits, Wider Shots | Headshots, Close-Ups |
When to Choose Which:
* Choose 50mm if:
* You're on a budget.
* You want a versatile lens for various types of photography.
* You shoot in tight spaces often.
* You want to include more of the environment in your portraits.
* You're new to portrait photography and want an easier lens to learn with.
* Choose 85mm if:
* You prioritize flattering portraits and beautiful background blur.
* You have ample space to work in.
* You primarily shoot headshots or close-up portraits.
* You want to isolate your subject from distracting backgrounds.
* You're willing to invest in a lens specifically for portraiture.
Final Recommendation:
* If you're just starting out, the 50mm is a great place to begin. It's affordable, versatile, and will teach you the fundamentals of portrait photography.
* If you're serious about portraiture and have the budget, the 85mm is a fantastic lens that will produce stunning results.
Ultimately, the best way to decide is to try both focal lengths yourself and see which one you prefer. Renting a lens is a great way to test it out before committing to a purchase.