85mm Lens: Strengths
* More Compression: The longer focal length compresses features, resulting in a more flattering, less distorted look. This makes facial features appear more natural and reduces the appearance of a wide nose or forehead.
* Shallower Depth of Field (Easier Background Blur): Even at the same aperture as a 50mm lens, an 85mm lens will produce a shallower depth of field, leading to a more blurred background (bokeh). This helps to isolate the subject and create a visually appealing image.
* Greater Working Distance: You can stand further away from your subject. This is beneficial for:
* Candid Shots: Less intrusive, allowing for more natural expressions.
* Subject Comfort: Some subjects are more comfortable with more personal space.
* Outdoor Shooting: Allows you to fill the frame without getting too close in busy environments.
85mm Lens: Weaknesses
* Less Versatile in Tight Spaces: You need more room to shoot. This can be a significant limitation indoors, in small studios, or crowded locations. You may find yourself backing into walls.
* More Challenging Handheld (potentially): Due to the longer focal length, camera shake is more apparent. Faster shutter speeds (or image stabilization) are often necessary to get sharp images, especially in low light.
50mm Lens: Strengths
* Versatility: Excellent for a wide range of photography, including portraits, street photography, landscapes, and general use. More adaptable to different environments.
* Better in Tight Spaces: You can shoot portraits in smaller rooms or confined areas where an 85mm lens would be too restrictive.
* Lighter and More Compact: 50mm lenses are typically smaller and lighter than 85mm lenses, making them more convenient to carry around.
* Often More Affordable: 50mm lenses tend to be less expensive than 85mm lenses with similar maximum apertures.
* Field of View closer to human eye: Can produce a more "natural" looking perspective, especially when you are trying to capture the environment around your subject.
50mm Lens: Weaknesses
* Less Compression: Facial features are less compressed, potentially leading to slight distortion. A very close-up shot can exaggerate features like the nose.
* Shallower Depth of Field Requires Wider Aperture: To achieve a comparable background blur to an 85mm lens, you'll need to use a wider aperture (e.g., f/1.4 vs. f/1.8 on the 85mm).
* Closer Working Distance: You need to be closer to your subject, which can be intrusive or make them feel self-conscious.
Here's a table summarizing the key differences:
| Feature | 50mm Lens | 85mm Lens |
|-----------------|--------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------|
| Compression | Less | More |
| Depth of Field | More Depth (requires wider aperture for blur) | Shallower (easier background blur) |
| Working Distance| Closer | Further |
| Versatility | More | Less |
| Size/Weight | Lighter/Smaller | Heavier/Larger |
| Price | Typically Less Expensive | Typically More Expensive |
| Best for: | Indoor Portraits, Versatile Use, tight spaces| Flattering Portraits, background separation |
When to Choose 85mm:
* You primarily shoot portraits and want the most flattering look with blurred backgrounds.
* You have sufficient space to work with.
* You prioritize subject comfort and candid shots.
* You want a stronger background isolation.
When to Choose 50mm:
* You need a versatile lens for various types of photography.
* You often shoot portraits in tight spaces.
* You prefer a lighter and more compact lens.
* You're on a tighter budget.
* You want to include more of the environment in your portrait.
Ultimately, the best way to decide is to try both lenses (if possible). Rent them for a weekend, borrow from a friend, or see if a local camera store will let you test them out. Experiment with different distances, apertures, and subjects to see which focal length best suits your style and needs.
Other Considerations:
* Sensor Size: Crop sensor cameras (APS-C) will change the equivalent focal length. A 50mm lens on a crop sensor will have a field of view closer to an 80mm lens, and a 85mm will be even longer. This affects the working distance and background blur. You need to consider this 'crop factor'.
* Aperture: The maximum aperture (e.g., f/1.8, f/1.4) affects the amount of light the lens lets in and the depth of field you can achieve. A wider aperture is generally preferred for portraits.
* Budget: Lens prices vary significantly.
Good luck choosing the right lens for your portrait photography!