50mm Lens
Pros:
* Versatile: A 50mm is a very versatile lens. It can be used for more than just portraits. You can use it for street photography, landscapes, general snapshots, and more.
* Faster Apertures: 50mm lenses are often available with wider maximum apertures (like f/1.8 or even f/1.4) at a lower cost than comparable 85mm lenses. This allows for shallower depth of field (more background blur - bokeh) and better performance in low light.
* Lighter and Smaller: Generally more compact and lighter than an 85mm, making it easier to carry around.
* "Normal" Perspective: The 50mm lens offers a perspective close to what the human eye sees, making it feel more natural and less distorted.
* Easier to Shoot in Tight Spaces: You don't need as much distance between you and your subject, making it better suited for indoor environments and smaller studios.
* More of the Environment: Shows more of the background, which can be helpful for environmental portraits that tell a story.
* Cheaper: Generally, 50mm lenses are more affordable than 85mm lenses, especially when comparing lenses with similar maximum apertures.
Cons:
* Less Compression: Doesn't compress features as much as an 85mm, which can sometimes make faces appear slightly wider.
* Requires Closer Proximity: You need to be closer to your subject, which can sometimes feel intrusive or make them self-conscious.
* Background Can Be Distracting: Because it captures more of the background, you need to be more mindful of what's behind your subject.
85mm Lens
Pros:
* Flattering Perspective: The longer focal length compresses features, which is generally considered more flattering for portraits. It can slightly slim the face and smooth out imperfections.
* Stronger Bokeh: Creates a more pronounced and creamy background blur, isolating the subject effectively.
* Greater Subject Isolation: The shallow depth of field and compressed perspective helps to separate the subject from the background, drawing more attention to them.
* More Comfortable Distance: Allows you to work from a more comfortable distance, which can help your subject feel more relaxed and natural.
* Excellent for Headshots: Very well-suited for headshots and close-up portraits due to the flattering perspective and background blur.
Cons:
* Less Versatile: More specialized for portraits and not as useful for other types of photography.
* Typically More Expensive: 85mm lenses (especially those with fast apertures) are generally more expensive than 50mm lenses.
* Larger and Heavier: Bulkier and heavier than a 50mm lens, making them less convenient to carry around.
* Requires More Space: Needs more space to work, making it less ideal for indoor environments or small studios.
* Can Feel "Distant": The distance can sometimes make it harder to communicate with your subject.
Here's a table summarizing the key differences:
| Feature | 50mm | 85mm |
|--------------------|---------------------------------------|------------------------------------------|
| Versatility | High | Lower |
| Perspective | More natural, wider | More compressed, flattering |
| Background Blur | Good, but less pronounced than 85mm | Excellent, creamy |
| Subject Distance | Closer | Further |
| Size & Weight | Lighter & Smaller | Larger & Heavier |
| Price | Generally more affordable | Generally more expensive |
| Space Required | Less | More |
| Best For | Environmental portraits, indoor shots, general use | Headshots, isolating subjects, flattering portraits |
Which one should you choose?
* For Beginners: The 50mm f/1.8 is often recommended as a first prime lens due to its affordability, versatility, and decent performance. It's a great way to learn about aperture and composition.
* For Headshots & Flattering Portraits: The 85mm is generally preferred if you primarily shoot headshots or want the most flattering perspective and background blur.
* For Environmental Portraits: The 50mm can be better for showing the subject in their environment.
* For Tight Spaces: The 50mm is the better choice if you often shoot indoors or in confined spaces.
* If You Can Only Choose One: If you can only buy one lens and you're not sure what you'll be shooting, the 50mm is the more versatile option.
* Consider Your Budget: A good 50mm is usually much cheaper than a good 85mm.
Ultimately, the best way to decide is to try both lenses (if possible) and see which one you prefer. Consider renting them for a weekend to get a feel for each one. Also, remember that your personal shooting style and the type of portraits you want to create will influence your decision. Good luck!