85mm Lens:
Pros:
* More Compression: This is the 85mm's biggest advantage for portraits. It compresses the perspective, making the subject's features appear more flattering, minimizing distortion, and giving a smoother, less exaggerated look. This compression can also make backgrounds appear closer and larger.
* More Background Blur (Bokeh): Especially with a wide aperture like f/1.8 or f/1.4, the 85mm creates a significantly more shallow depth of field and creamier, more blurred backgrounds. This helps isolate the subject and draw the viewer's attention.
* Greater Subject Distance: Allows you to be further from your subject, which can make them feel more comfortable and natural, especially with shy or reserved individuals.
* Better for Tight Headshots: The compression and shallow depth of field are ideal for creating impactful close-up portraits where the background is completely blurred out.
Cons:
* Less Versatile: More specialized for portraits. It's less useful for group shots, landscapes, or indoor shooting in smaller spaces.
* Requires More Space: You need more distance between you and your subject, making it challenging to use in small studios, indoor spaces, or crowded environments.
* Can Be Less Engaging: The greater distance can sometimes create a feeling of disconnect between the photographer and the subject.
* Generally More Expensive: High-quality 85mm lenses tend to be more expensive than comparable 50mm lenses.
50mm Lens:
Pros:
* More Versatile: A "standard" lens, excellent for a wide range of subjects, including portraits, landscapes, street photography, and general everyday shooting.
* Good for Full-Body Portraits: Easier to capture full-body portraits without needing to stand very far away.
* More Affordable: Generally less expensive than 85mm lenses, making it a good entry point for portrait photography.
* Better in Tight Spaces: More practical for shooting indoors, in small studios, or in environments where space is limited.
* More Engaging: The closer proximity to the subject can create a more intimate and connected feeling.
* Lightweight and Compact: Generally smaller and lighter than 85mm lenses, making them easier to carry around.
Cons:
* Less Compression: Can create some slight distortion, especially at close distances. Features like the nose might appear larger.
* Less Background Blur (Bokeh): While you can still achieve good bokeh with a 50mm lens, it won't be as creamy or pronounced as with an 85mm lens at the same aperture.
* Requires Closer Proximity: Some subjects might feel uncomfortable being photographed from a close distance.
* Not Ideal for Extreme Close-Ups: Distortion can be more noticeable in very tight headshots.
Here's a table summarizing the key differences:
| Feature | 50mm Lens | 85mm Lens |
|-------------------|---------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------|
| Compression | Less | More |
| Bokeh | Less Pronounced | More Pronounced |
| Subject Distance | Closer | Further |
| Versatility | More Versatile | Less Versatile |
| Space Required | Less | More |
| Price | Generally Lower | Generally Higher |
| Best For | Full-body, environmental portraits, general use | Headshots, tight portraits, isolating subject |
| Indoor Shooting | Better | More challenging |
| Subject Comfort | May require getting closer | Provides more distance |
Which Lens is Right for You? Consider these questions:
* What kind of portraits do you typically shoot? Headshots? Full-body? Environmental?
* Where do you typically shoot? Studio? Outdoors? Small spaces?
* What is your budget?
* What kind of aesthetic do you prefer? Natural and realistic? Dreamy and isolated?
* What is your photographic style? Do you prefer being close to your subjects, or do you prefer to keep your distance?
Recommendations:
* Beginner/Budget-Conscious: Start with a 50mm. It's more versatile and more affordable. You'll learn a lot about portrait photography and can later decide if you need the specialized advantages of an 85mm. A "nifty fifty" (50mm f/1.8) is an excellent starting point.
* Headshot/Close-Up Focus: The 85mm is generally preferred for its flattering compression and beautiful bokeh, which helps isolate the subject.
* Outdoor/Environmental Portraits: Both can work well. The 50mm is good for capturing more of the environment, while the 85mm helps to compress the background and focus attention on the subject.
* Limited Space: The 50mm is the better choice.
Ultimately, the best way to decide is to try both lenses (if possible). Rent them for a weekend or borrow them from a friend. Experiment with different shooting scenarios and see which lens you prefer and which one better suits your style. Many photographers eventually own both lenses to cover all their portrait photography needs.