Here's a breakdown to help you decide which might be better for you:
50mm Lens:
Pros:
* More Versatile: A 50mm lens is often considered a "standard" focal length, close to human vision. This makes it useful for a wider range of photography beyond just portraits. You can use it for street photography, landscapes, and even some event photography.
* Wider Field of View: The wider field of view allows you to capture more of the environment around your subject, helping to tell a story or provide context.
* Can work well in tighter spaces: If you are shooting in a small studio, room, or location, the 50mm will give you more room to work without having to stand too far from the subject.
* More Affordable: Typically, 50mm lenses (especially f/1.8 versions) are significantly cheaper than 85mm lenses with similar apertures.
* Easier to Find Fast Aperture Options: You can find a very affordable 50mm with a wide maximum aperture (like f/1.8 or f/1.4), which is great for low light and shallow depth of field.
Cons:
* Less Subject Isolation: Because of the wider field of view, it can be harder to achieve a very shallow depth of field (blurred background) to completely isolate the subject, especially in busy environments. While you can get blur at wider apertures, the 85mm will generally produce creamier backgrounds.
* May Distort Features (slightly): When shooting very close, a 50mm lens can slightly distort facial features, making them appear slightly wider. This is more noticeable when shooting full-face, close-up portraits. It's usually not a huge issue, but something to be aware of.
* Requires You to Get Closer: To fill the frame with your subject, you'll need to get closer, which some subjects may find less comfortable.
85mm Lens:
Pros:
* More Flattering Perspective: The 85mm focal length is known for providing a very flattering perspective for portraits. It tends to compress features, making faces appear more streamlined and attractive.
* Better Subject Isolation: The longer focal length creates a shallower depth of field, making it easier to blur the background and isolate your subject, creating a more professional-looking portrait. The bokeh (the quality of the blur) is often more pleasing than that of a 50mm.
* More Comfortable Distance: You can stand further back from your subject while still filling the frame, which can make them feel more relaxed and natural.
* Reduces Distortion: The 85mm minimizes distortion, resulting in a more natural and accurate representation of facial features.
Cons:
* Less Versatile: It's primarily suited for portraiture and might not be ideal for other types of photography.
* Requires More Space: You need more distance between you and your subject, which can be challenging in small studios or confined spaces.
* More Expensive: 85mm lenses, especially those with fast apertures (like f/1.8 or f/1.4), tend to be more expensive than 50mm lenses.
* Less Forgiving with Movement: Due to the longer focal length and shallower depth of field, even slight movements of the subject or photographer can throw the subject out of focus. Requires good technique and/or faster shutter speeds.
Here's a table summarizing the key differences:
| Feature | 50mm | 85mm |
|-------------------|---------------------|--------------------|
| Versatility | High | Low |
| Field of View | Wider | Narrower |
| Subject Isolation | Less | More |
| Perspective | Can be slightly distorting | More flattering, compressed |
| Distance | Closer | Further |
| Price | Generally Lower | Generally Higher |
| Space Needed | Less | More |
When to Choose 50mm:
* You want a versatile lens that can be used for various types of photography.
* You're shooting in a small space.
* You want to include more of the environment in your portraits.
* You're on a budget.
* You're shooting environmental portraits.
When to Choose 85mm:
* You primarily shoot portraits and want the best possible image quality and background blur.
* You have enough space to move around.
* You want to flatter your subjects with a compressed perspective.
* You want to isolate your subject from a distracting background.
* You want a more professional and polished look.
In Conclusion:
There is no single "best" focal length. Both 50mm and 85mm lenses are excellent choices for portrait photography. The ideal choice depends on your individual needs, shooting style, and the look you're trying to achieve.
Recommendations:
* If you're just starting out: Begin with a 50mm f/1.8. It's affordable and will teach you the basics of portrait photography. You can later decide if you want the more specialized look of an 85mm.
* If you shoot primarily in studios and want the best subject isolation and flattering perspective: The 85mm is a great choice.
* If you need versatility and shoot in a variety of locations: The 50mm might be a better all-around option.
* Consider your subjects: Do they prefer you to be closer or further away?
Ultimately, the best way to decide is to try both focal lengths (if possible) and see which one you prefer. Renting is a good option before making a purchase. Good luck!