85mm Lens:
* Pros:
* More flattering perspective: The longer focal length compresses features, which generally leads to more flattering portraits. It tends to smooth skin and reduce the perceived size of noses.
* Stronger background blur (Bokeh): The longer focal length, combined with a wide aperture (e.g., f/1.8, f/1.4), creates a shallower depth of field, resulting in beautifully blurred backgrounds. This helps isolate your subject and draw attention to them.
* Comfortable working distance: You can stand further away from your subject, which can make them feel more relaxed and natural. It also helps in capturing candid expressions without being intrusive.
* Less distortion: Generally, 85mm lenses exhibit less distortion than 50mm lenses.
* Cons:
* Requires more space: Because you need to stand further away, an 85mm lens can be challenging to use in small rooms or cramped environments.
* Less versatile: It's more specialized for portraits. It's not as good for general photography, street photography, or landscapes compared to a 50mm.
* Can feel isolating: The distance can create a psychological barrier between you and your subject.
50mm Lens:
* Pros:
* More versatile: The 50mm is a very versatile lens that can be used for a wide range of photography, including portraits, street photography, landscapes, and general photography.
* Smaller and lighter: 50mm lenses are generally smaller and lighter than 85mm lenses, making them easier to carry around.
* Affordable: A good quality 50mm lens is usually more affordable than an 85mm lens.
* Better for environmental portraits: The wider field of view allows you to include more of the environment in the frame, which can be great for telling a story or showing the subject in context.
* More intimate connection: The closer proximity fosters a more personal and interactive connection with the subject.
* Cons:
* Less flattering perspective: It can sometimes exaggerate features, especially if you get too close. The 50mm focal length can slightly distort facial features and make them appear wider.
* Weaker background blur: While you can still achieve background blur, it won't be as pronounced as with an 85mm.
* Can feel intrusive: Being so close to your subject can make them feel uncomfortable if they're not used to being photographed.
Here's a simple table summarizing the key differences:
| Feature | 85mm Lens | 50mm Lens |
|-----------------|-----------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------|
| Perspective | More flattering, compressed features | Less flattering, can exaggerate features |
| Background Blur | Stronger | Weaker |
| Working Distance| Longer, more comfortable for subject | Shorter, can feel intrusive |
| Versatility | Less versatile, specialized for portraits| More versatile, good for various types of photos|
| Space Required | More space needed | Less space needed |
| Size/Weight | Generally larger and heavier | Generally smaller and lighter |
| Price | Generally more expensive | Generally more affordable |
Which should you choose?
* Choose 85mm if:
* You primarily shoot portraits.
* You want the most flattering perspective and beautiful background blur.
* You have enough space to work with.
* You prioritize isolating your subject.
* Choose 50mm if:
* You need a versatile lens that can be used for more than just portraits.
* You want to include more of the environment in your portraits.
* You're on a budget.
* You often shoot in small spaces.
* You like to interact more closely with your subject.
Other considerations:
* Sensor size: The "effective" focal length changes with sensor size. On a crop sensor (APS-C) camera, a 50mm lens acts more like an 75mm-80mm lens, and an 85mm acts more like a 127.5mm-136mm lens. Keep this in mind when considering the field of view.
* Personal style: Ultimately, the best lens for you is the one that helps you achieve your desired look and feel. Experiment with both focal lengths to see which one you prefer.
In conclusion: There's no single "best" lens. Both 50mm and 85mm lenses are excellent choices for portrait photography. Understanding their strengths and weaknesses will allow you to select the right lens for your specific needs and creative vision. If you can only choose one to start with, consider a 50mm lens due to its versatility and affordability, but aim to add an 85mm to your kit later if portraiture is a primary focus.