50mm Lens:
Pros:
* Versatility: 50mm is often called the "nifty fifty" for a reason. It's versatile for a wide range of photography, not just portraits. You can use it for street photography, landscapes, and even some wider-environmental portraits.
* Affordability: 50mm lenses are generally much more affordable than 85mm lenses, especially the f/1.8 versions.
* Smaller and Lighter: Easier to carry around and use for extended periods.
* Wider Field of View: Allows you to capture more of the environment around the subject. Good for environmental portraits that tell a story.
* Easier to Shoot in Tight Spaces: Useful when working in smaller studios or cramped locations.
* Natural Perspective: Often provides a more natural perspective, closer to how the human eye sees.
Cons:
* Distortion (Slight): Can introduce some slight distortion, especially around the edges, if you get too close to the subject.
* Less Background Compression: Doesn't compress the background as much as an 85mm, which means less pronounced bokeh (background blur).
* Requires Getting Closer to the Subject: This can sometimes feel intrusive or less comfortable for the subject, especially for candid shots.
* Less Dramatic Subject Isolation: The subject might not "pop" as much from the background compared to an 85mm.
85mm Lens:
Pros:
* Excellent Background Compression: Creates beautiful bokeh and isolates the subject effectively, making them stand out.
* Flattering Perspective: Generally considered more flattering for portraits, as it minimizes distortion and elongates features slightly.
* More Comfortable Working Distance: Allows you to work at a more comfortable distance from the subject, which can help them relax and feel less self-conscious.
* Ideal for Headshots and Upper Body Shots: Excellent for tight portraits where you want maximum subject isolation.
* Creamier Bokeh: Often produces a smoother, more pleasing bokeh compared to a 50mm.
Cons:
* Less Versatile: Primarily a portrait lens and less useful for other types of photography.
* More Expensive: Generally more expensive than 50mm lenses.
* Larger and Heavier: Can be more cumbersome to carry and use for long periods.
* Longer Focal Length: Requires more space to work, making it less ideal for small studios or tight locations.
* Steeper Learning Curve: Mastering focus and composition can take more practice, especially at wider apertures.
Here's a table summarizing the key differences:
| Feature | 50mm Lens | 85mm Lens |
|---------------------|-----------------------------------|-----------------------------------|
| Versatility | High | Low |
| Price | Lower | Higher |
| Size/Weight | Smaller/Lighter | Larger/Heavier |
| Background Blur | Less pronounced | More pronounced |
| Distortion | Slight | Minimal |
| Working Distance | Closer | Further |
| Subject Isolation | Less dramatic | More dramatic |
| Space Requirements | Less | More |
| Ideal For | Environmental portraits, candid shots, wider shots | Headshots, upper body shots, subject isolation |
When to Use Each Lens:
* Choose 50mm if:
* You're on a budget.
* You need a versatile lens for various types of photography.
* You frequently shoot in tight spaces.
* You want to capture more of the environment in your portraits.
* You prefer a more natural perspective.
* Choose 85mm if:
* You prioritize beautiful bokeh and subject isolation.
* You want a flattering perspective for your subjects.
* You primarily shoot headshots and upper body portraits.
* You have plenty of space to work.
* You want to create a more artistic and dramatic look.
Ultimately, the best way to decide is to try both lenses and see which one you prefer. Rent them, borrow them, or find a camera store that will let you test them out. Consider your typical shooting situations, your desired style, and your budget to make the best choice for your needs.
Important Considerations Beyond Focal Length:
* Aperture: The wider the aperture (lower f-number like f/1.4 or f/1.8), the more background blur you can achieve and the better the lens performs in low light. This is important regardless of the focal length.
* Sensor Size: These focal lengths are discussed in terms of "full-frame" cameras. If you are using a crop sensor camera, you will need to factor in the crop factor. A 50mm on a camera with a 1.5x crop factor will have a similar field of view as a 75mm lens on a full-frame camera.
* Image Stabilization: Having image stabilization (IS or VR) can be helpful, especially when shooting handheld in low light.
Good luck!