50mm Lens:
* Pros:
* Versatility: 50mm is a versatile focal length that can be used for more than just portraits. It's suitable for street photography, general photography, and even some landscape shots. This makes it a great lens to have in your bag.
* Affordability: Generally, 50mm lenses (especially the f/1.8 versions) are relatively inexpensive compared to 85mm lenses with similar aperture.
* Lightweight and Compact: 50mm lenses are typically smaller and lighter, making them easier to carry around and work with for extended periods.
* Wider Angle: The wider field of view of a 50mm lens allows you to include more of the environment in your portrait. This can be useful for environmental portraits that tell a story about the subject's surroundings.
* Closer Connection: You'll be physically closer to your subject when shooting with a 50mm, which can help you build rapport and connect with them more easily.
* Cons:
* Less Background Compression: Doesn't compress the background as much as an 85mm, which can make the background feel closer and less blurred (less bokeh).
* Potential Distortion: Can introduce some slight distortion if you get too close to your subject, especially at the edges of the frame. This can affect facial features, making noses appear slightly larger.
* Less Subject Isolation: Due to the wider field of view, it can be more challenging to isolate your subject from a busy background.
85mm Lens:
* Pros:
* Excellent Background Compression: Creates a pleasing background blur (bokeh) that isolates the subject and makes them stand out. This is often considered a key element of a flattering portrait.
* Flattering Perspective: The perspective is often considered more flattering for portraits than a 50mm, as it tends to avoid distortion and create a more natural-looking representation of facial features. It flattens features a bit, which can be desirable.
* Greater Subject Distance: Allows you to work from a comfortable distance, which can make your subject feel more relaxed and less self-conscious. It can also be useful in situations where you can't get physically close to your subject (e.g., shooting at a wedding).
* Better Isolation: Easier to isolate your subject from distracting backgrounds due to the narrower field of view and greater background blur.
* Sharpness: Typically known for their sharpness, producing incredibly detailed portraits.
* Cons:
* Less Versatile: More specialized for portraits and less suitable for other types of photography.
* More Expensive: Generally more expensive than 50mm lenses with comparable aperture.
* Heavier and Bulkier: Typically larger and heavier, which can be a consideration if you're carrying your gear for long periods.
* Requires More Space: The longer focal length requires more space to work, which can be challenging in tight spaces or small studios.
* Can Feel Disconnected: The greater distance from your subject can sometimes make it harder to build rapport.
Here's a simple table summarizing the key differences:
| Feature | 50mm | 85mm |
|----------------------|--------------------------------------|---------------------------------------|
| Versatility | High | Low |
| Affordability | More Affordable | More Expensive |
| Size/Weight | Smaller/Lighter | Larger/Heavier |
| Background Blur | Less | More |
| Subject Distance | Closer | Further |
| Distortion | More (at close distances) | Less |
| Subject Isolation | More Challenging | Easier |
| Ideal for | Environmental Portraits, General Use | Classic Portraits, Flattering Images |
Which Should You Choose?
* Choose 50mm if:
* You're on a budget.
* You want a versatile lens that can be used for various types of photography.
* You like to include more of the environment in your portraits.
* You work in tight spaces or travel frequently.
* You prefer a closer, more intimate connection with your subjects.
* Choose 85mm if:
* You prioritize beautiful background blur and subject isolation.
* You want a flattering perspective and avoid distortion.
* You need to work from a distance.
* You primarily shoot portraits and want a lens optimized for that purpose.
* You have the budget and space for a more specialized lens.
In Conclusion:
There's no single "best" focal length for portrait photography. Both 50mm and 85mm lenses have their strengths and weaknesses. Consider your priorities, shooting style, and budget when making your decision. Many photographers own both and use them in different situations. Ideally, renting both lenses to try them out before purchasing is a great way to see which one best fits your style. You might even find that other focal lengths, like 35mm or 135mm, suit you even better!