50mm Lens:
* Pros:
* Versatility: A 50mm lens is often referred to as a "standard" lens because it approximates the perspective of human vision. It's versatile and can be used for a wide range of photography beyond portraits, including street, landscapes, and general everyday photography.
* Affordability: 50mm lenses, especially the f/1.8 versions, are often very affordable, making them a great entry point into portrait photography.
* Shooting in tight spaces: The wider field of view makes it easier to shoot portraits indoors or in smaller environments where you don't have much room to move.
* Environmental Portraits: Because of its wider angle, the 50mm allows you to capture more of the environment around your subject, making it well-suited for environmental portraits that tell a story about where the person is.
* Easier to communicate with your subject: You can be closer to your subject, which makes it easier to give direction and build rapport.
* Cons:
* Less Background Blur (Bokeh): While you can still achieve background blur with a 50mm, it won't be as pronounced as with an 85mm, especially if you're not shooting at a very wide aperture (like f/1.8).
* Possible Distortion: When shooting close-up portraits with a 50mm, you might notice some slight distortion, especially around the edges of the frame. This can sometimes be unflattering, making features like noses appear larger. (This is less noticeable if you maintain a good distance from your subject.)
* Not as flattering for some subjects: While the 50mm can be flattering, the 85mm's compression is often considered more universally flattering.
85mm Lens:
* Pros:
* Beautiful Background Blur (Bokeh): The longer focal length of the 85mm creates a shallower depth of field, resulting in creamy, dreamy background blur that isolates your subject beautifully.
* Flattering Compression: The 85mm lens compresses the subject's features, which is often considered more flattering for portraits. It can soften angles and make facial features appear more balanced.
* Good Working Distance: Allows you to maintain a comfortable distance from your subject, which can make them feel more relaxed and natural.
* Excellent Sharpness: 85mm lenses are generally known for their excellent sharpness, ensuring your subject is captured in crisp detail.
* Cons:
* Price: 85mm lenses, especially those with wide apertures (like f/1.4 or f/1.8), can be more expensive than 50mm lenses.
* Requires More Space: The longer focal length requires more distance between you and your subject, which can be challenging in smaller studios or indoor environments.
* Less Versatile: While great for portraits, an 85mm lens isn't as versatile as a 50mm for other types of photography.
* Communication Barrier: The greater distance can make it slightly harder to communicate with your subject, although this can be overcome with practice and clear communication.
Here's a table summarizing the key differences:
| Feature | 50mm Lens | 85mm Lens |
|--------------------|---------------------------------|--------------------------------------|
| Versatility | High | Medium |
| Affordability | High | Medium to Low |
| Background Blur | Less pronounced | More pronounced |
| Compression | Less | More |
| Working Distance | Shorter | Longer |
| Space Required | Less | More |
| Flattering Factor | Can be, but requires technique | Generally more flattering |
| Distortion | More potential near subjects | Less distortion |
Which Lens Should You Choose?
* Choose the 50mm if:
* You're on a budget.
* You need a versatile lens for various types of photography.
* You often shoot in tight spaces.
* You want to capture more of the environment in your portraits (environmental portraits).
* You prefer a more natural, less compressed look.
* Choose the 85mm if:
* You want the most beautiful background blur (bokeh).
* You prioritize flattering facial compression.
* You have enough space to work with.
* You mainly focus on portrait photography and want the best possible image quality and aesthetic.
Ultimately, the best way to decide is to try both lenses if possible. Rent them or borrow them from a friend and experiment with different shooting scenarios. This will help you determine which lens better suits your style and preferences. Many photographers eventually own both and choose based on the specific situation.