50mm Lens:
* Pros:
* Versatile: Great for both full-body and environmental portraits. You can show more of the surroundings.
* Affordable: Typically more budget-friendly than an 85mm lens, especially fast (e.g., f/1.8 or f/1.4) versions.
* Lightweight and Compact: Easier to carry around for extended periods.
* Closer Connection: Requires you to get closer to your subject, which can foster a more personal connection.
* Often good general-purpose lens: Usable for a wider variety of photographic subjects besides portraits.
* Cons:
* More Distortion: Can introduce slight distortion, especially at the edges of the frame, which might not be flattering for portraits (though this is often minimal and correctable).
* Background Less Blurred: Requires a wider aperture (lower f-number) and/or getting closer to the subject to achieve significant background blur (bokeh). A crop sensor body with a 50mm will have even less background blur.
* Not Ideal for Tight Headshots: Requires you to get quite close for tight headshots, which can feel intrusive to some subjects.
* Less flattering perspective in some cases: May not be as flattering for certain facial features as the 85mm.
85mm Lens:
* Pros:
* Ideal Portrait Focal Length: Known for creating flattering portraits with natural-looking proportions.
* Excellent Background Blur (Bokeh): Creates beautiful, creamy background blur, isolating the subject effectively, especially with fast apertures like f/1.8 or f/1.4.
* Compression: Compresses the background, making it appear closer to the subject, which can create a pleasing aesthetic.
* More Comfortable Distance: Allows you to maintain a more comfortable distance from your subject while still capturing flattering headshots.
* Cons:
* Less Versatile: Less suitable for full-body shots in tight spaces. You need more room to work.
* More Expensive: Typically more expensive than 50mm lenses, especially high-quality, fast aperture versions.
* Heavier and Larger: Can be bulkier and heavier to carry, which can be a factor during long shoots.
* Requires More Space: You need more space between you and your subject to frame your shot.
* Can Feel Disconnected: The distance can feel less personal than using a 50mm.
Here's a table summarizing the key differences:
| Feature | 50mm | 85mm |
|-------------------|-----------------------------------|-----------------------------------|
| Versatility | High | Low |
| Background Blur | Lower | Higher |
| Distortion | More noticeable | Less noticeable |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Size/Weight | Smaller/Lighter | Larger/Heavier |
| Subject Distance | Closer | Further |
| Compression | Less | More |
| Ideal Portraits | Environmental, Full-Body, Candid | Headshots, Upper Body, Isolated |
Which is best for you?
* Choose the 50mm if:
* You're on a budget.
* You want a versatile lens for various types of photography.
* You often shoot in tight spaces.
* You prefer a closer connection with your subjects.
* You want to capture more of the environment in your portraits.
* Choose the 85mm if:
* You prioritize flattering portraits with beautiful background blur.
* You primarily shoot headshots and upper-body portraits.
* You have the budget for a higher-end lens.
* You have ample space to work.
* You want to maintain a comfortable distance from your subject.
Ultimately, the best lens for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Recommendations:
* If you can only afford one lens to start: The 50mm is a better starting point due to its versatility and affordability. You can learn the basics of portrait photography and then invest in an 85mm later.
* If you can afford both: Having both the 50mm and 85mm gives you the flexibility to adapt to different shooting situations and create a wider range of portrait styles.
* Rent before you buy: Rent both lenses and try them out to see which one you prefer. This is the best way to determine which focal length is right for your style.
Consider the Sensor Size:
* Crop Sensor (APS-C): On a crop sensor camera, the 50mm lens will behave more like an 80mm lens, which brings it closer to the 85mm's field of view. The 85mm on a crop sensor will behave like a 136mm which may be too long for many situations.
No matter which lens you choose, practice and experimentation are key to mastering portrait photography. Learn the characteristics of your chosen lens and how to use it to create the best possible images.