50mm Lens:
Pros:
* Versatility: A 50mm lens is often considered a "standard" focal length, mimicking the field of view of the human eye. This makes it useful for a wider range of photography beyond just portraits, including street photography, landscapes, and general everyday shooting.
* Affordability: 50mm lenses, especially "nifty fifties" with fast apertures like f/1.8, are generally more affordable than comparable 85mm lenses.
* Availability: 50mm lenses are widely available across different camera systems.
* Easier to work in tighter spaces: You don't need as much room to frame your subject compared to a longer focal length.
Cons:
* Less Subject Isolation: At 50mm, you'll typically capture more of the background in your shot. This can be a pro or con depending on your desired composition. It requires more thought in choosing a clean background.
* Less Compression: Facial features can appear less compressed compared to an 85mm. Slight perspective distortion might be more noticeable if you get too close to the subject. Noses might seem slightly larger.
* May require you to get closer: To fill the frame with your subject, you need to be physically closer, which can sometimes make subjects feel more aware of the camera.
85mm Lens:
Pros:
* Excellent Subject Isolation: The longer focal length naturally blurs the background, creating a shallow depth of field (bokeh) that isolates the subject and draws attention to them.
* Flattering Perspective: 85mm lenses are known for their ability to compress facial features, which many find more flattering for portraits. They tend to make noses look a bit smaller and generally create a more pleasing aesthetic.
* More Comfortable Working Distance: You can stand further back from your subject, which can make them feel more relaxed and natural.
* Great for headshots and tighter portraits: The focal length is perfect for capturing detailed facial expressions.
Cons:
* Higher Cost: Good quality 85mm lenses, especially those with fast apertures (f/1.8 or faster), tend to be more expensive than comparable 50mm lenses.
* Less Versatile: Less ideal for wide scenes or situations where you need a wider field of view.
* Requires More Space: You need more space between you and your subject to frame them properly. Can be limiting in smaller studios or indoor environments.
* Can be difficult to handhold at slower shutter speeds: Due to the longer focal length, camera shake can be more noticeable, especially in low light.
Here's a table summarizing the key differences:
| Feature | 50mm Lens | 85mm Lens |
|--------------------|--------------------------|-----------------------------|
| Versatility | High | Lower |
| Subject Isolation | Lower | Higher |
| Perspective | Less compressed | More compressed |
| Working Distance | Closer | Further |
| Price | Generally more affordable | Generally more expensive |
| Space Required | Less | More |
| Flattering | Less inherently | More inherently |
Which one should you choose?
* Choose 50mm if:
* You're on a budget.
* You need a versatile lens for various types of photography.
* You often shoot in tight spaces.
* You want to capture more of the environment and tell a story with the surroundings.
* You are comfortable working close to your subject.
* Choose 85mm if:
* You prioritize subject isolation and beautiful bokeh.
* You want a lens specifically designed for flattering portraiture.
* You have enough space to work.
* You want to stand further back from your subject and create a more relaxed atmosphere.
* You primarily shoot headshots or tight portraits.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your personal preferences and the type of portraits you want to create. It's a good idea to try both focal lengths to see which one you prefer. Renting lenses is a great way to experiment before committing to a purchase. Consider also that the crop factor of your camera (if it's not full frame) will affect the effective focal length. On an APS-C camera, a 50mm lens will have an effective focal length closer to 75-80mm, making it a bit more like an 85mm on a full-frame camera.