Here's a breakdown to help you decide which might be better for you:
50mm Lens for Portraits:
Pros:
* Versatility: The 50mm is a very versatile lens. You can use it for full-body shots, environmental portraits (showing the subject in their context), and even some tighter headshots.
* Wider Field of View: You can fit more of the background into the frame, which is great for telling a story or showing off a location. Good for environmental portraits.
* Often More Affordable: 50mm lenses, especially f/1.8 versions, are typically much more affordable than 85mm lenses. This makes them a great entry point into portrait photography.
* Smaller and Lighter: Easier to carry around and use for longer periods.
* Better in Tight Spaces: If you're shooting indoors in a small room, the wider field of view makes it easier to get the shot you want without having to stand too far back.
Cons:
* Less Background Blur (Bokeh): While you can still get background blur, it won't be as pronounced as with an 85mm at the same aperture.
* Possible Distortion: At closer distances, a 50mm can sometimes introduce slight distortion, especially around the edges of the frame. This can subtly alter facial features.
* Requires Getting Closer: You might need to get physically closer to your subject to achieve a tighter composition, which can sometimes make the subject feel self-conscious or uncomfortable.
* Not as flattering for all face shapes: the perspective can emphasize roundness in some faces.
85mm Lens for Portraits:
Pros:
* Excellent Background Blur (Bokeh): The 85mm excels at creating a shallow depth of field, beautifully blurring the background and isolating the subject. This is a hallmark of classic portraiture.
* Flattering Perspective: The 85mm lens offers a more flattering perspective for portraits, as it tends to compress facial features and avoid distortion. This generally results in more pleasing portraits.
* Ideal Distance: Allows you to maintain a comfortable distance from your subject while still achieving a tight composition. This can lead to more natural and relaxed expressions.
* Sharpness: High-quality 85mm lenses are often exceptionally sharp, rendering fine details beautifully.
* Great for headshots and upper body shots: The focal length is perfect for these types of portraits.
Cons:
* Less Versatile: More specialized for portraits. It's not as well-suited for full-body shots or capturing wide environmental scenes.
* Narrower Field of View: It can be challenging to shoot in tight spaces or to include much of the background in your portraits.
* More Expensive: 85mm lenses, especially those with wide apertures (like f/1.4 or f/1.8), tend to be more expensive than 50mm lenses.
* Larger and Heavier: Can be more cumbersome to carry around, especially for longer shoots.
* Needs More Space: Requires more distance between you and the subject, which may be difficult in confined areas.
Here's a Table Summarizing the Key Differences:
| Feature | 50mm Lens | 85mm Lens |
|-------------------|-------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------|
| Versatility | High | Low |
| Background Blur | Moderate | High |
| Perspective | Can distort at close range | Flattering, compresses features |
| Subject Distance | Requires getting closer | More comfortable distance |
| Field of View | Wider | Narrower |
| Cost | Generally more affordable | Generally more expensive |
| Size/Weight | Smaller and lighter | Larger and heavier |
| Best For | Environmental portraits, full-body portraits | Headshots, upper body portraits, bokeh-rich images |
| Space Needed | Less | More |
Which Should You Choose?
* If you're on a budget and need a versatile lens: The 50mm is a great choice. It's a solid performer and can be used for a variety of photographic situations beyond just portraits.
* If you want the classic portrait look with beautiful background blur and flattering perspective: The 85mm is the way to go.
* If you're shooting in tight spaces often: The 50mm's wider field of view will be more helpful.
* If you prioritize subject comfort and want to maintain a more respectful distance: The 85mm is a good choice.
* If you enjoy incorporating the environment into your portraits: The 50mm offers more flexibility.
* If you're prioritizing headshots and upper-body shots: The 85mm is ideal.
Final Recommendation:
* Start with a 50mm f/1.8: It's an affordable and versatile lens that will allow you to learn the basics of portrait photography. You can always add an 85mm later.
* Rent both lenses: The best way to decide is to rent both lenses and try them out for yourself in different situations. This will give you a feel for which lens best suits your style.
* Consider your shooting style and subject matter: Think about the types of portraits you want to create and the environments you'll be shooting in. This will help you determine which lens is the better fit.
Ultimately, the best lens is the one that helps you achieve your creative vision and that you enjoy using. Don't be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you! Good luck!