85mm: The Portrait Photographer's Darling
* Pros:
* Flattering Compression: 85mm lenses offer more compression, which means they make features appear more proportional and flattering. They tend to shorten the nose slightly and bring the background closer, creating a more pleasing overall image.
* Bokeh: They generally produce beautiful, creamy bokeh (the out-of-focus background blur) due to their longer focal length and typically wider apertures. This helps isolate the subject.
* Working Distance: Requires a bit more distance between you and your subject, which can be more comfortable for some subjects, allowing them to relax. You're not right in their face.
* Background Isolation: The narrower field of view naturally isolates the subject more effectively, minimizing distractions in the background.
* Cons:
* Space Requirements: Requires more space to work. Can be challenging in small studios or cramped environments.
* Communication: The greater distance might make communication with your subject slightly less intimate, though not significantly.
* Less Versatile: Less versatile for general photography compared to a 50mm, as it's more specialized for portraits.
50mm: The Versatile Option
* Pros:
* Versatility: Excellent for portraits, but also great for street photography, documentary, and general photography. A good "walkaround" lens.
* Affordability: Typically more affordable than an 85mm lens, especially faster aperture versions (f/1.8 or f/1.4).
* Space-Saving: Works well in tighter spaces. You can take portraits in smaller rooms or studios.
* Closer Connection: Allows you to be closer to your subject, which can create a more intimate connection.
* Less Compression: Gives a more "natural" look, with less facial compression than an 85mm.
* Cons:
* Less Flattering (Sometimes): Can sometimes distort facial features slightly if you're too close.
* Bokeh (Depends): Bokeh is generally good, especially with fast aperture lenses (f/1.8 or f/1.4), but it's usually not as creamy or dramatic as an 85mm.
* Background Distractions: Requires more careful composition to avoid distracting elements in the background, as the field of view is wider.
* Working Distance: If you are too close, you can make the person feel self-conscious.
Here's a table summarizing the key differences:
| Feature | 50mm | 85mm |
|------------------|---------------------------------------|------------------------------------|
| Compression | Less compression, more "natural" look | More compression, more flattering |
| Bokeh | Good, but often less dramatic | Excellent, very creamy |
| Working Distance | Closer | Further |
| Space Required | Less | More |
| Versatility | High | Lower |
| Affordability | Generally more affordable | Generally more expensive |
| Distortion | Can have slight distortion if too close | Minimal distortion |
When to Choose Each:
* Choose 85mm if:
* You prioritize flattering facial compression and creamy bokeh.
* You have sufficient space to work.
* You primarily shoot portraits and want the classic portrait look.
* You want to isolate your subject from the background effectively.
* Choose 50mm if:
* You need a versatile lens for various types of photography, including portraits.
* You work in smaller spaces.
* You want a more affordable option.
* You prefer a more natural look with less compression.
* You want to be closer to your subject and foster a stronger connection.
Other Considerations:
* Sensor Size: On a crop sensor (APS-C) camera, a 50mm lens will have an effective focal length closer to 75mm, making it a pretty decent portrait lens. An 85mm on a crop sensor will be closer to 127.5mm, which can be very tight for portraits and requires even more space.
* Aperture: The aperture of the lens is crucial. A faster aperture (e.g., f/1.8, f/1.4) will create a shallower depth of field, resulting in better background blur regardless of the focal length.
* Personal Style: Ultimately, the best focal length depends on your personal style and the look you're trying to achieve. Some photographers prefer the compressed look of the 85mm, while others prefer the more natural look of the 50mm.
Recommendation:
If you're starting out and can only afford one lens, a 50mm f/1.8 is an excellent choice due to its versatility and affordability. As you grow, you might find that an 85mm fills a specific need for a different "look." If you are serious about portraiture, consider eventually adding an 85mm to your collection. Renting either lens for a trial period is also a great option before committing to a purchase. Good luck!