50mm Lens:
Pros:
* Versatility: Can be used in a wider range of situations, including environmental portraits, wider shots, and even some street photography. It's a great "walkaround" lens.
* Cost: Generally more affordable than a comparable 85mm lens, especially those with fast apertures.
* Working Distance: Requires you to be closer to your subject, which can be good for building rapport and directing poses.
* Lightweight: Often smaller and lighter, making it easier to carry around all day.
* Easier to Shoot Indoors: The wider field of view makes it more suitable for smaller indoor spaces.
* More Context in the Shot: You get more of the background in your image, allowing you to tell a more complete story about your subject and their surroundings.
Cons:
* Distortion: Can introduce slight distortion, especially when shooting very close to the subject. This is usually minimal, but can be noticeable.
* Background Compression: Doesn't compress the background as much as an 85mm, meaning the background might be more distracting.
* Less Isolation: Subject is not as isolated from the background compared to an 85mm lens.
* Might Feel too close in some situations: Requires you to get physically close to your subject, which some people may not be comfortable with, or might not be possible depending on the environment.
85mm Lens:
Pros:
* Beautiful Bokeh: Creates a shallow depth of field with a creamy, blurred background (bokeh), which helps to isolate the subject and make them "pop".
* Background Compression: Compresses the background, making distant objects appear closer and more prominent, which can simplify busy backgrounds.
* Flattering Perspective: Generally considered to be a more flattering focal length for faces, as it reduces distortion and provides a more pleasing perspective.
* Creates Distance: Allows you to work at a comfortable distance from your subject, which can be less intrusive and more conducive to natural expressions.
* Excellent for Headshots and Tight Portraits: Ideal for focusing on the subject's face and expressions.
Cons:
* Limited Versatility: Less versatile than a 50mm lens. More challenging to use in tight spaces or for capturing wider environmental portraits.
* Cost: Typically more expensive than comparable 50mm lenses, especially those with wide apertures (e.g., f/1.4, f/1.2).
* Size and Weight: Can be larger and heavier, making it less convenient to carry around.
* Requires More Space: Needs more room to work, which can be difficult in small studios or indoor spaces.
* Less Background Context: You get less of the background in your image, which can be a drawback if you want to include the environment.
Here's a table summarizing the key differences:
| Feature | 50mm | 85mm |
|------------------|-------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------|
| Versatility | High | Low |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Working Distance| Closer | Further |
| Bokeh | Good (but not as creamy as 85mm) | Excellent |
| Compression | Less | More |
| Distortion | Slight (can be present, but usually minor) | Minimal |
| Space Required | Less | More |
| Portability | Better (lighter, smaller) | Worse (heavier, larger) |
| Indoor Use | Easier | More challenging |
| Ideal For | Environmental portraits, general use | Headshots, tight portraits, creamy bokeh |
Which One Should You Choose?
* Choose 50mm If:
* You want a versatile lens that can be used for various types of photography.
* You're on a budget.
* You often shoot in tight spaces.
* You prefer including more of the background in your portraits.
* You like to work close to your subjects.
* You want a lens that's easy to carry around.
* Choose 85mm If:
* You primarily shoot portraits and want the best possible bokeh and background compression.
* You're comfortable working at a distance from your subjects.
* You have enough space to work with.
* You want a flattering perspective and minimal distortion.
* You want to isolate your subject from the background.
Ultimately, the best way to decide is to try both lenses (if possible) and see which one you prefer based on your shooting style and personal preferences. You can rent lenses from many photography stores.
Other Considerations:
* Aperture: Look for lenses with wide apertures (e.g., f/1.8, f/1.4, f/1.2) for better low-light performance and shallower depth of field.
* Image Stabilization (IS) / Vibration Reduction (VR): Can be helpful, especially in low-light situations, but not essential for portrait photography.
* Autofocus Performance: Important for capturing sharp images, especially when shooting moving subjects.
Good luck with your portrait photography!