85mm Lens:
Pros:
* More flattering perspective: The 85mm lens compresses features slightly, which many find more flattering for portraits. It minimizes distortion and avoids emphasizing the nose, making the subject look more naturally proportioned.
* Beautiful background blur (bokeh): Longer focal lengths naturally create shallower depth of field, resulting in a more blurred and creamy background. This isolates the subject and makes them stand out beautifully.
* Greater working distance: You can stand further away from your subject, which can make them feel more comfortable and relaxed. This is especially helpful for shy or self-conscious subjects.
* More professional look: The shallow depth of field and compression of features often gives portraits shot with an 85mm lens a more polished and professional look.
* Easier to shoot headshots and upper body portraits: The focal length naturally lends itself to these compositions.
Cons:
* Less versatile: The narrow field of view makes it less suitable for environmental portraits where you want to show more of the surroundings. It can also be restrictive in smaller spaces.
* Requires more space: You need more room to move back and get the full body in the frame. This can be challenging in small studios or indoor settings.
* Can feel isolating: The distance between photographer and subject can sometimes create a feeling of disconnection.
50mm Lens:
Pros:
* Versatile: The 50mm is a great all-around lens. It's suitable for portraits, street photography, landscapes, and more.
* Good for environmental portraits: The wider field of view allows you to include more of the surroundings, telling a story about the subject and their environment.
* More intimate feel: The closer proximity to the subject can create a more personal and intimate connection.
* Better in tight spaces: You can often work comfortably in smaller rooms or studios without needing to back up too far.
* Generally more affordable: A good quality 50mm lens is often significantly cheaper than an 85mm lens.
* Good for full-body portraits: Easier to capture the whole person in the frame without needing a huge amount of space.
Cons:
* Less flattering perspective (can be): If you get too close, the 50mm can distort facial features, particularly the nose. It requires more careful composition and positioning.
* Less background blur (can be): It takes more effort to create a shallow depth of field with a 50mm. You typically need a wider aperture (lower f-number) and to be closer to the subject.
* Requires more skill in composition: You need to be more mindful of your framing and background to avoid unwanted distractions.
Here's a table summarizing the key differences:
| Feature | 50mm | 85mm |
|-------------------|------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------|
| Perspective | Can distort if too close | More flattering, compresses features |
| Background Blur | Less, requires more effort to achieve | More, naturally creates shallow depth of field |
| Working Distance | Closer | Further |
| Versatility | More versatile for other types of photography | More specialized for portraits |
| Space Required | Less | More |
| Intimacy | Can feel more intimate | Can feel more isolating |
| Cost | Generally less expensive | Generally more expensive |
| Best for | Environmental, full-body portraits, tight spaces | Headshots, upper body portraits, dreamy backgrounds |
Ultimately, the best lens for you depends on:
* Your Style: Do you prefer clean, isolated portraits or those that tell a story about the subject's environment?
* Your Shooting Environment: Do you primarily shoot in studios, outdoors, or in clients' homes?
* Your Budget: 50mm lenses are generally more affordable, making them a great starting point.
* Your Comfort Level: Which focal length feels more natural and comfortable to you?
* Your Subject: Some subjects may feel more comfortable with the distance afforded by the 85mm, while others may prefer the more intimate feel of the 50mm.
Recommendation:
* If you're new to portrait photography and on a budget: Start with a 50mm f/1.8. It's affordable, versatile, and a great way to learn the fundamentals.
* If you primarily shoot headshots and upper body portraits and have the space and budget: The 85mm is an excellent choice for its flattering perspective and beautiful background blur.
* If you shoot a mix of portraits and other types of photography, or often work in tight spaces: The 50mm will likely be more versatile.
* Ideally, try both: Rent both lenses for a weekend and experiment with them to see which one you prefer.
Don't get too caught up in the "perfect" lens. Both 50mm and 85mm lenses are capable of producing stunning portraits. The most important thing is to understand the strengths and weaknesses of each lens and use them creatively to achieve your desired look. Good lighting, composition, and connection with your subject are far more important than the specific focal length you use.