50mm Lens:
Pros:
* Versatility: 50mm is considered a "standard" focal length, meaning it's fairly close to how the human eye sees the world. This makes it versatile for more than just portraits. You can use it for street photography, landscapes, and everyday snapshots.
* Affordability: Typically, 50mm lenses are relatively inexpensive, especially a fast prime (e.g., f/1.8). This makes it a great option for beginners or those on a budget.
* Lightweight and Compact: 50mm lenses tend to be smaller and lighter, making them easier to carry around.
* Wider Field of View: This is good for capturing more of the environment around your subject. You can show context and tell a story.
* Closer Interaction: Requires you to be closer to your subject, which can lead to more intimate and engaging interactions, potentially resulting in more natural expressions.
Cons:
* Less Background Compression: Doesn't compress the background as much as longer focal lengths. This can sometimes make the background appear distracting or less blurred.
* Perspective Distortion: If you get too close to your subject, a 50mm can introduce some distortion, especially noticeable in facial features. Things like the nose can appear larger.
* Less Isolation of Subject: Because of the wider field of view, it can be harder to isolate your subject completely from a busy background.
85mm Lens:
Pros:
* Excellent Background Compression: Compresses the background, making it appear closer and more blurred. This helps to isolate your subject and create a dreamy, professional look (bokeh).
* Flattering Perspective: Provides a more flattering perspective for portraits, minimizing distortion and making facial features look more balanced.
* Good Subject Isolation: Effectively isolates the subject from distracting backgrounds, drawing the viewer's eye directly to them.
* Comfortable Distance: Allows you to maintain a comfortable distance from your subject, which can be helpful if they are shy or uncomfortable being very close.
* Good for Headshots and Tight Portraits: Ideal for capturing headshots and close-up portraits where you want to focus on the subject's face and expression.
Cons:
* Less Versatile: Not as versatile as a 50mm. It's primarily a portrait lens.
* More Expensive: Typically more expensive than a 50mm lens, especially a fast prime.
* Heavier and Bulkier: Usually larger and heavier than a 50mm, making it less convenient to carry around.
* Requires More Space: Needs more space between you and your subject. Can be limiting in small studios or cramped environments.
* Less Context: Captures less of the surrounding environment, which can be a drawback if you want to include context in your portraits.
Here's a table summarizing the key differences:
| Feature | 50mm | 85mm |
|---------------------|---------------------------------------|----------------------------------------|
| Versatility | High | Low |
| Cost | Generally Lower | Generally Higher |
| Size/Weight | Smaller/Lighter | Larger/Heavier |
| Background Blur | Less | More |
| Perspective | More Distortion (when close) | More Flattering |
| Subject Distance | Closer | Further |
| Best Use Cases | Environmental Portraits, Full Body | Headshots, Close-Ups |
| Space Requirement | Less | More |
Which Lens is Right for You?
* Choose 50mm if:
* You want a versatile lens for various types of photography, not just portraits.
* You're on a budget.
* You want a lightweight and compact lens.
* You prefer shooting environmental portraits and capturing more of the surroundings.
* You don't mind being close to your subject and interacting with them directly.
* You often shoot in tight spaces.
* Choose 85mm if:
* You primarily focus on portrait photography.
* You want a lens that creates beautiful background blur and subject isolation.
* You want a flattering perspective that minimizes distortion.
* You prefer maintaining a comfortable distance from your subject.
* You mostly shoot headshots or close-up portraits.
* You have enough space to move around.
Final Thoughts:
Ideally, having both a 50mm and an 85mm lens in your kit would give you the most flexibility. However, if you have to choose just one, consider your shooting style and priorities.
Recommendation for beginners: A fast 50mm (f/1.8) is a fantastic starting point due to its versatility, affordability, and ability to perform well in low light. You can always add an 85mm later as your needs evolve.
Ultimately, the best way to decide is to try both lenses and see which one you prefer. Rent them, borrow them, or visit a camera store and test them out. Your personal preference will be the deciding factor. Good luck!