85mm Lens
* Pros:
* More Compression: The longer focal length compresses the features of the face, making them appear more flattering and less distorted. This often results in a more appealing and proportional representation of the subject.
* Enhanced Background Blur (Bokeh): 85mm lenses, especially with a wide aperture like f/1.8 or f/1.4, create a shallower depth of field and more creamy, blurred backgrounds. This beautifully isolates the subject and adds a professional touch.
* Greater Working Distance: You can stand further away from your subject, making them feel more comfortable and less self-conscious. This is great for capturing candid moments or working with subjects who are naturally shy.
* More Formal/Professional Feel: The compression and background separation often lend a more polished and professional look to portraits.
* Better for Headshots and Close-Ups: Excels at capturing tight headshots where flattering features and soft backgrounds are paramount.
* Cons:
* Less Versatile in Tight Spaces: The longer focal length requires more space. You'll need a larger studio or outdoor area to comfortably frame your subject, especially for full-body shots. You might find yourself backing up against walls indoors.
* More Difficult Communication: Being further away from your subject can make communication slightly more challenging, requiring you to speak louder or rely on hand gestures.
* More Expensive (Generally): While there are affordable 85mm options, they tend to be slightly more expensive than comparable 50mm lenses.
* Can Feel Isolating: The subject may feel more disconnected from the photographer due to the larger distance.
50mm Lens
* Pros:
* More Versatile: A 50mm lens is a great all-around lens. It's suitable for portraits, street photography, landscapes, and general photography. You can use it indoors and outdoors with more ease.
* More Affordable: 50mm lenses are generally more affordable, especially the "nifty fifty" f/1.8 versions.
* Wider Field of View: You can capture more of the environment around your subject, allowing you to tell a story and incorporate the setting into your portrait. This is great for environmental portraits.
* Easier to Use in Tight Spaces: Its wider angle makes it much easier to use indoors and in confined spaces.
* Better Communication: Being closer to your subject makes it easier to communicate and create a connection.
* More "Natural" Perspective: The 50mm lens approximates the human eye's field of view, leading to a more natural and less distorted perspective.
* Cons:
* Less Compression: The 50mm lens doesn't compress features as much as the 85mm, which can sometimes result in slightly less flattering portraits, especially if you're not careful with posing and angles.
* Less Background Blur: While you can still achieve background blur, it won't be as dramatic or creamy as with an 85mm lens, especially at similar aperture values.
* Can Be Too Close for Some Subjects: You need to be closer to your subject, which some people may find uncomfortable.
* More Susceptible to Distortion (if too close): Getting *too* close with a 50mm can lead to slight distortion, particularly around the edges of the frame.
Here's a table summarizing the key differences:
| Feature | 50mm | 85mm |
|--------------------|------------------------------------|------------------------------------------|
| Compression | Less | More |
| Background Blur | Less | More |
| Working Distance| Closer | Further |
| Versatility | More | Less |
| Price | Generally Less | Generally More |
| Space Required | Less | More |
| Perspective | More Natural | More Compressed, Formal |
Which one should you choose?
* Choose the 85mm if:
* You primarily shoot portraits (especially headshots).
* You want maximum background blur.
* You want to compress facial features for a more flattering look.
* You have enough space to work with.
* You prioritize a polished and professional feel.
* Choose the 50mm if:
* You want a more versatile lens for various types of photography.
* You need to shoot in tight spaces.
* You're on a budget.
* You prefer a more natural-looking perspective.
* You want to capture more of the environment in your portraits.
Consider these factors too:
* Sensor Size: These recommendations are based on a full-frame sensor. On a crop sensor (APS-C), the 50mm will behave more like an 80mm (close to 85mm), and the 85mm will behave more like a 136mm. So, if you have a crop sensor camera, a 35mm might be a better alternative to the 50mm if you want a similar field of view.
* Personal Style: Ultimately, the best lens is the one that suits your personal style and photographic goals. Experiment with both if possible to see which one you prefer.
In conclusion: There's no single "best" lens for portrait photography. Both the 50mm and 85mm are excellent choices, each with its own set of strengths and weaknesses. Consider your shooting style, the type of portraits you want to create, the space you have available, and your budget when making your decision. If you can only get one, the 50mm offers more versatility, while the 85mm excels at creating beautiful, flattering portraits. If budget allows, having both is ideal.