50mm Lens:
Pros:
* Versatile: Can be used for a wider range of subjects, not just portraits. Suitable for environmental portraits, street photography, and even some landscape shots.
* Smaller and Lighter: Generally more compact and easier to carry around compared to an 85mm lens.
* Affordable: Typically less expensive than an 85mm lens, especially at similar aperture speeds.
* Wider Field of View: Allows you to capture more of the background and environment around your subject, useful for telling a story.
* Easier to Shoot in Tight Spaces: Better suited for indoor portrait sessions or cramped locations.
* Environmental Portraiture: Excellent for showing the subject in their environment, giving context and adding narrative.
Cons:
* Less Background Compression: Doesn't create as much background blur (bokeh) as an 85mm lens at the same aperture.
* Requires You to Get Closer to the Subject: Can be less comfortable for shy subjects or in situations where you need more distance.
* Potential for Distortion: Can introduce slight distortion if you get too close to the subject's face.
85mm Lens:
Pros:
* Beautiful Background Blur (Bokeh): Creates a shallow depth of field, isolating the subject and blurring the background for a dreamy, professional look.
* Flattering Perspective: Compresses facial features, making them appear more flattering and pleasing to the eye. Avoids distortion.
* Creates Distance: Allows you to work from a comfortable distance, which can help subjects relax and feel more natural.
* Excellent for Headshots and Close-ups: Ideal for capturing detailed portraits that emphasize facial expressions.
* Subject Isolation: Better at isolating the subject from distracting backgrounds.
Cons:
* Less Versatile: More specialized for portrait photography, less suitable for other types of photography.
* Larger and Heavier: Bulkier and more cumbersome to carry than a 50mm lens.
* More Expensive: Typically more expensive than a 50mm lens with a similar aperture.
* Requires More Space: Needs more room to work, making it challenging to use in small studios or indoor locations.
* Less Environmental Context: Captures less of the background, which can be a drawback if you want to include the environment.
Here's a simple table summarizing the key differences:
| Feature | 50mm | 85mm |
|----------------------|-----------------------------------------|------------------------------------------|
| Versatility | High | Low |
| Size/Weight | Smaller/Lighter | Larger/Heavier |
| Price | Lower | Higher |
| Background Blur | Less | More |
| Perspective | More distortion close-up | More flattering, less distortion |
| Working Distance | Closer | Further |
| Space Requirements | Less | More |
| Best For | Environmental portraits, general use | Headshots, close-ups, subject isolation |
Which Should You Choose?
* Start with 50mm if:
* You're on a budget.
* You want a versatile lens that can be used for various types of photography.
* You frequently shoot portraits in tight spaces.
* You want to capture environmental portraits.
* You're new to portrait photography and want a good starting point.
* Choose 85mm if:
* You prioritize beautiful background blur and subject isolation.
* You frequently shoot headshots and close-up portraits.
* You have enough space to work with.
* You want a lens that creates a flattering perspective.
* You want to invest in a dedicated portrait lens.
Ultimately, the best way to decide is to try both focal lengths and see which one you prefer. Renting lenses can be a great way to experiment without committing to a purchase. Consider what kind of portraits you like to take and where you usually shoot.
Consider Your Camera's Sensor Size:
* Crop Sensor Camera (APS-C): Due to the crop factor, a 50mm lens will act more like an 80mm lens, making it a good alternative to an 85mm on a full-frame. A 35mm lens on a crop sensor will act more like a 50mm on a full-frame camera, providing a great all-purpose field of view.
* Full-Frame Camera: The focal lengths behave as labeled (50mm is 50mm, 85mm is 85mm).
No matter which you choose, practice, experiment, and develop your own style! Happy shooting!