50mm Lens - The Versatile All-Arounder
* Pros:
* More Affordable: Typically cheaper than a comparable 85mm lens.
* Lighter and More Compact: Easier to carry around for extended shoots and travel.
* Wider Field of View: Allows you to incorporate more of the environment into the portrait, telling a story and providing context.
* Works Well in Tight Spaces: Useful for indoor portraits or smaller studios where you don't have a lot of room to move back.
* More Versatile: Good for a wider range of photography beyond just portraits, like street photography, landscapes, and general snapshots.
* Generally Faster Autofocus: While it depends on the specific lens, 50mm lenses are often faster to focus than 85mm lenses.
* Cons:
* Can Distort Facial Features: When shooting up close, a 50mm lens can slightly distort facial features, making the nose appear larger. You'll need to be mindful of your distance to the subject.
* Less Background Compression: Doesn't create as much background blur (bokeh) as an 85mm, which can be desirable for isolating the subject.
* Requires More Engagement: You need to be closer to your subject, which can be intimidating for some photographers or subjects.
85mm Lens - The Portrait Specialist
* Pros:
* Excellent Background Compression: Creates beautiful background blur (bokeh) that isolates the subject and makes them stand out.
* More Flattering Perspective: Naturally flattens facial features, making the subject look more attractive and avoiding distortion.
* Ideal Working Distance: Allows you to be far enough away from the subject to make them feel comfortable, while still maintaining a connection.
* Great for Headshots and Close-Ups: Excels at capturing detailed, intimate portraits.
* "Creamier" Bokeh: Often produces a smoother, more pleasing background blur compared to a 50mm.
* Cons:
* More Expensive: Typically more expensive than a comparable 50mm lens.
* Heavier and Bulkier: Can be less convenient to carry around.
* Requires More Space: Needs more room to work, making it less suitable for small spaces or indoor environments.
* Less Versatile: Not as well-suited for other types of photography besides portraits.
* Can Feel Isolating: The distance can feel less connected than being closer to the subject with a 50mm.
Here's a simple table summarizing the key differences:
| Feature | 50mm | 85mm |
|----------------------|-----------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------|
| Price | More Affordable | More Expensive |
| Size/Weight | Lighter and More Compact | Heavier and Bulkier |
| Field of View | Wider | Narrower |
| Distortion | More Potential for Distortion | Less Distortion |
| Background Blur | Less Background Blur (Bokeh) | More Background Blur (Bokeh) |
| Working Distance | Closer | Further Away |
| Space Required | Less Space Needed | More Space Needed |
| Versatility | More Versatile | Less Versatile |
| Subject Comfort | Can be more intimidating | More comfortable for the subject |
Which one should *you* choose?
* Choose 50mm if:
* You're on a budget.
* You want a more versatile lens for different types of photography.
* You often shoot in tight spaces.
* You want to include more of the environment in your portraits.
* You like a more intimate and engaging shooting experience.
* Choose 85mm if:
* You want the best possible background blur (bokeh).
* You prioritize flattering portraits with minimal distortion.
* You have enough space to work with.
* You want to create a comfortable distance between you and your subject.
* You primarily focus on portrait photography.
Final Thoughts:
Ultimately, the best focal length for portrait photography is the one that helps you achieve your creative vision. Consider your personal style, shooting environment, and budget when making your decision. Many photographers eventually own both lenses and use them for different purposes. You could even rent both lenses for a weekend to see which one you prefer before committing to a purchase.