50mm Lens
Pros:
* Versatility: The 50mm is a "standard" focal length, meaning it approximates how the human eye sees. This makes it incredibly versatile for more than just portraits. You can use it for street photography, landscapes, events, and even some product photography.
* Affordability: Generally, a good quality 50mm lens (especially f/1.8 versions) is much more affordable than an 85mm lens with a similar aperture.
* Wider Field of View: This allows you to include more of the surrounding environment in your portraits. You can tell more of a story about the subject's context or location.
* Easier to Shoot in Tight Spaces: In smaller studios or rooms, a 50mm gives you more breathing room to compose your shot without backing up too far.
* Can be more engaging: Since you need to be a bit closer to the subject, it can encourage more natural interaction.
Cons:
* Less Background Compression: Doesn't compress the background as much as an 85mm. This means the background elements will appear closer and potentially more distracting.
* Requires You to Be Closer: Some subjects might feel uncomfortable with you being so close, especially at wider apertures where you need to nail focus.
* Potential for Distortion: At very close distances, especially with cheaper lenses, there can be some slight distortion that can affect facial features.
85mm Lens
Pros:
* Excellent Background Compression: The 85mm excels at compressing the background, making it appear closer to the subject and creating a beautiful, blurred background (bokeh). This helps to isolate the subject and draw the viewer's attention to them.
* Flattering Perspective: It's known for creating flattering portraits. The longer focal length minimizes distortion and renders facial features in a more pleasing way.
* Greater Subject Distance: You can stand further away from your subject, which can make them feel more comfortable and relaxed, leading to more natural expressions.
* Beautiful Bokeh: The longer focal length, especially when combined with a wide aperture (like f/1.8 or f/1.4), creates creamy, smooth bokeh.
* More dramatic: Because of the compression and bokeh, 85mm portraits often feel more dramatic and artistic.
Cons:
* Less Versatile: Primarily designed for portraits. It's less useful for other types of photography.
* More Expensive: 85mm lenses, especially those with wide apertures, tend to be more expensive than 50mm lenses.
* Requires More Space: You need more space to work with an 85mm lens. It can be challenging to use in small studios or indoor settings.
* Can Feel Disconnected: The greater distance can sometimes make it harder to connect with your subject and get those spontaneous, natural reactions.
* Shallower Depth of Field: While beautiful, the extremely shallow depth of field at wide apertures requires precise focusing.
Here's a table summarizing the key differences:
| Feature | 50mm | 85mm |
|-------------------|------------------------------|------------------------------|
| Versatility | High | Low |
| Affordability | Generally Lower | Generally Higher |
| Background Compression | Lower | Higher |
| Subject Distance | Closer | Further |
| Distortion | Potential at Close Range | Minimal |
| Bokeh | Good, but not as creamy | Excellent, Creamy |
| Space Required | Less | More |
| Best For | Environmental Portraits, Full Body, Versatile use | Headshots, Upper Body, Isolating Subject |
Which one should you choose?
* Choose 50mm if:
* You're on a budget.
* You want a versatile lens for various types of photography.
* You want to include more of the environment in your portraits.
* You often shoot in small spaces.
* You want to be closer to your subject.
* Choose 85mm if:
* You prioritize flattering portraits with beautiful background blur.
* You have enough space to work with.
* You want to create a sense of intimacy from a distance.
* You are comfortable with a narrower field of view.
* Budget isn't a major concern.
Consider Your Camera's Sensor Size:
* The focal length equivalence changes depending on whether you're using a full-frame or crop-sensor camera.
* Full-frame: The stated focal length is what you get (50mm is 50mm, 85mm is 85mm).
* Crop-sensor (APS-C): You need to multiply the focal length by the crop factor (usually 1.5 or 1.6). A 50mm lens on a crop sensor becomes approximately 75mm, and an 85mm becomes approximately 127.5mm. This makes the 50mm on a crop sensor a closer equivalent to the full-frame 85mm in terms of field of view.
Final Recommendation:
If you're just starting out, a 50mm f/1.8 is an excellent and affordable choice. It's versatile, teaches you good composition, and can be used in various situations. As you gain experience and develop your style, you can then consider adding an 85mm lens to your kit for more specialized portrait work. Ideally, if your budget allows, having both is the best option!