50mm Lens:
Pros:
* Versatility: The 50mm is often called the "nifty fifty" for a reason. It's incredibly versatile, suitable for everything from full-body portraits to environmental portraits to street photography.
* Wider Perspective: It captures more of the surrounding environment, which is great for telling a story and placing your subject in context. You get a sense of where they are and what they're doing.
* Closer Connection: You often need to be physically closer to your subject, which can help build rapport and create a more intimate connection.
* Smaller and Lighter: 50mm lenses are typically smaller and lighter than 85mm lenses, making them easier to carry around.
* Affordable: High-quality 50mm lenses are generally more affordable than comparable 85mm lenses.
* Good in tight spaces: If you're shooting indoors in smaller rooms, a 50mm allows you to capture more of your subject without being crammed into a corner.
Cons:
* Less Subject Isolation: The wider perspective means the background is more prominent, potentially distracting from your subject if you don't manage the composition well.
* Can Distort Features Slightly at Close Range: When you get very close for a headshot, the 50mm can slightly distort facial features, making the nose appear larger. This is more noticeable with wider-angle lenses.
* Background Compression: It offers less background compression than an 85mm. This can be good or bad depending on your artistic vision.
85mm Lens:
Pros:
* Excellent Subject Isolation: The narrower field of view creates a shallow depth of field, beautifully blurring the background and isolating your subject. This is ideal for classic portrait looks.
* Flattering Perspective: The 85mm offers a more flattering perspective for faces, often considered ideal for portraiture. It minimizes distortion and compresses features in a pleasing way.
* Background Compression: The longer focal length compresses the background, making it appear closer to the subject. This can create a more impactful image, especially with interesting backgrounds.
* More Comfortable Distance: You can be further away from your subject, which can make them feel more relaxed and natural, especially for those who are camera-shy. It's also useful for candid shots at events.
Cons:
* Less Versatile: It's primarily a portrait lens and not as useful for other types of photography.
* Tighter Field of View: You need more space to use it effectively. It can be challenging to use indoors or in confined areas.
* Heavier and More Expensive: 85mm lenses are typically larger, heavier, and more expensive than 50mm lenses.
* Can Feel Disconnected: The distance can sometimes make it harder to connect with your subject as personally.
Here's a table summarizing the key differences:
| Feature | 50mm | 85mm |
| ------------------ | ---------------------- | ---------------------- |
| Versatility | High | Low |
| Perspective | Wider | Narrower |
| Subject Isolation | Less | More |
| Background Blur | Less | More |
| Distortion | More at close range | Less |
| Size/Weight | Smaller/Lighter | Larger/Heavier |
| Cost | Generally Less | Generally More |
| Subject Distance | Closer | Further |
When to Choose 50mm:
* Environmental Portraits: When you want to include the surroundings to tell a story.
* Tight Spaces: When you're shooting indoors or in small rooms.
* Budget Constraints: When you want a high-quality lens without breaking the bank.
* Everyday Photography: When you need a versatile lens for various shooting situations.
* Building Rapport Quickly: When you want to be physically closer to your subject to foster connection.
When to Choose 85mm:
* Classic Portraits: When you want a shallow depth of field and beautifully blurred backgrounds.
* Flattering Portraits: When you want to minimize distortion and create a pleasing perspective.
* Comfortable Shooting Distance: When you want to be further away from your subject for comfort or candid shots.
* Interesting Backgrounds: When you want to compress the background and make it a more prominent part of the composition.
* Professional Look: When you want that classic "pro" portrait look.
Conclusion:
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences. There's no single "best" answer.
* If you're just starting out or want a versatile lens, the 50mm is a great choice. It's affordable, lightweight, and can be used in a variety of situations. You'll learn a lot about composition and using your environment effectively.
* If you primarily shoot portraits and want the classic, flattering look with beautiful background blur, the 85mm is an excellent investment. It provides a professional aesthetic and excels at isolating your subject.
Consider these scenarios:
* Wedding Photography: Many wedding photographers carry both! 50mm for wider shots and candid moments, and 85mm for formal portraits and ceremonies.
* Street Photography: 50mm is often preferred due to its versatility and wider field of view.
* Studio Photography: 85mm is often favored for its flattering perspective and background isolation.
The best advice? If possible, try renting or borrowing both lenses to see which one you prefer! Experience will be the best teacher. You might even find you want *both* for different situations.