50mm Lens for Portraits:
Pros:
* Versatility: 50mm is a very versatile focal length. It's great for more than just portraits; you can use it for street photography, landscapes, and everyday snapshots.
* Affordability: Generally, 50mm lenses (especially the f/1.8 versions) are among the most affordable prime lenses.
* Lightweight and Compact: 50mm lenses are usually small and lightweight, making them easy to carry around for extended periods.
* Wider Field of View: A 50mm lens captures a wider field of view than an 85mm lens. This can be beneficial for including more of the environment in your portraits, telling a story about the subject and their surroundings.
* More Intimate: Requires the photographer to be closer to the subject, which can lead to a more intimate connection (if done well).
Cons:
* Perspective Distortion: A 50mm lens can introduce slight perspective distortion, especially when shooting close-up portraits. This can make facial features appear slightly elongated or distorted, particularly the nose.
* Less Background Blur (Bokeh): While you can still achieve background blur with a 50mm lens, it won't be as pronounced as with an 85mm lens at the same aperture. The longer focal length of the 85mm naturally compresses the background more.
* May Show More Flaws: Because it's not compressing features like the 85mm, it can sometimes be less forgiving on skin.
85mm Lens for Portraits:
Pros:
* Flattering Perspective: An 85mm lens is widely considered to be an ideal focal length for portraits because it produces a very flattering perspective. It compresses facial features, making them appear more balanced and natural. It avoids the distortion that can sometimes occur with wider lenses.
* Beautiful Background Blur (Bokeh): 85mm lenses are known for creating creamy, smooth background blur (bokeh) that isolates the subject and draws the viewer's attention to them.
* More Working Distance: Allows you to stand further away from your subject, which can make them feel more comfortable and relaxed. This can lead to more natural-looking portraits.
* Sharpness: Typically, 85mm lenses (especially higher-end ones) are incredibly sharp, capturing fine details in the subject's face.
Cons:
* Less Versatile: Less versatile than a 50mm lens. It's primarily designed for portraits, making it less suitable for other types of photography.
* More Expensive: 85mm lenses, especially those with wide apertures (e.g., f/1.4 or f/1.8), tend to be more expensive than 50mm lenses.
* Larger and Heavier: 85mm lenses are usually larger and heavier than 50mm lenses, which can be a consideration for some photographers.
* Requires More Space: You need more space to work with an 85mm lens, especially indoors.
Here's a summary table:
| Feature | 50mm | 85mm |
|-------------------|---------------------------|---------------------------|
| Versatility | High | Low |
| Affordability | High | Low |
| Size/Weight | Small/Light | Larger/Heavier |
| Perspective | Slightly Distorted | Flattering |
| Background Blur | Moderate | High |
| Working Distance | Close | Further |
| Environment | Can include more | Isolates the subject |
Which Should You Choose?
* Beginner or Budget Conscious: Start with a 50mm. Its affordability and versatility make it a great all-around lens to learn with. You can then assess your needs and upgrade to an 85mm later.
* Primarily Shooting Portraits and Want the Best Quality: The 85mm is generally considered superior for portraits due to its flattering perspective and beautiful bokeh.
* Need Versatility: The 50mm is the clear winner if you want a lens that can be used for various types of photography beyond portraits.
* Tight Spaces: 50mm will be much easier to use in smaller rooms.
* Comfort of the Subject: Consider the subject's comfort level. Some people might feel uncomfortable with a photographer being too close (50mm), while others might find it strange to be photographed from a distance (85mm).
* Personal Preference: Ultimately, the best way to decide is to try both focal lengths and see which one you prefer. Rent or borrow a lens if possible.
In conclusion: There's no single "best" lens for portrait photography. Consider your budget, shooting style, subject matter, and the environment to make the best choice for *you*. Many professional portrait photographers own *both* a 50mm and an 85mm and use them in different situations. Good luck!