* Your Shooting Style: Are you more of a documentarian or do you prefer more posed shots?
* The Environment: Are you shooting in a studio, outdoors in a park, or in a cramped space?
* The Subject: Are you photographing individuals or groups?
* Your Aesthetic Preference: What kind of look are you aiming for (compression, background blur, etc.)?
Here's a breakdown of the pros and cons of each focal length:
50mm Lens for Portraits:
Pros:
* Versatility: It's considered a "standard" focal length, meaning it mimics the human eye's perspective fairly closely. It's great for a wide range of subjects, not just portraits.
* Affordability: 50mm lenses are generally more affordable than 85mm lenses, especially fast (wide aperture) versions.
* Wider Perspective/Environmental Portraits: Captures more of the background, which can be great for environmental portraits that tell a story. Shows the subject in context.
* Good in Tight Spaces: Easier to use indoors or in smaller areas where you can't move back as far.
* Can Be More Engaging: Requires you to be closer to your subject, which can create a more intimate connection.
Cons:
* Less Background Blur (Bokeh): At the same aperture, the background blur won't be as pronounced as with an 85mm lens.
* May Distort Features Slightly: Being closer to the subject can cause slight distortion, particularly around the nose.
* Less Compression: Doesn't compress the background as much as longer lenses, which can make the subject blend in more.
85mm Lens for Portraits:
Pros:
* Excellent Background Blur (Bokeh): Creates a beautifully blurred background, isolating the subject and drawing attention to them.
* Pleasing Compression: Compresses the background, making it appear closer to the subject and creating a flattering look. Helps eliminate distracting elements.
* Flattering Perspective: The distance allows for a more flattering perspective, minimizing distortion and rounding out features.
* Professional Look: Often associated with professional portrait photography due to its ability to create a dreamy, isolated look.
* Good Distance from Subject: Allows you to give the subject some space, which can make them more comfortable and natural, especially with subjects who are self-conscious.
Cons:
* Can Be Expensive: Fast 85mm lenses (e.g., f/1.8 or f/1.4) can be quite pricey.
* Requires More Space: Needs more room to move back from the subject, making it less ideal for small spaces.
* Less Versatile: Not as well-suited for general photography as a 50mm lens.
* Can Feel Disconnected: The distance from the subject can make it feel less intimate or connected.
Here's a table summarizing the key differences:
| Feature | 50mm | 85mm |
|-----------------|---------------------------|---------------------------|
| Versatility | High | Lower |
| Affordability | Generally more affordable | Generally more expensive |
| Background Blur| Less pronounced | More pronounced |
| Compression | Less | More |
| Distortion | More (closer) | Less (further) |
| Space Needed | Less | More |
| Ideal For | Environmental portraits, group shots in smaller spaces | Isolated portraits, flattering headshots |
Which Should You Choose?
* Start with a 50mm if: You're on a budget, need a versatile lens, shoot in tight spaces, or want more environmental context in your portraits. It's also a good starting point to learn about focal length.
* Choose an 85mm if: You prioritize background blur, want flattering compression, have enough space to work with, and are focused on creating a professional, isolated look.
Ultimately, the best way to decide is to try both focal lengths (or equivalent zoom lens settings) and see which one suits your style and preferences. Renting lenses is a great way to test them out before making a purchase.
Beyond Focal Length:
Remember that focal length is only one factor. Other important considerations for portrait photography include:
* Aperture: Wider apertures (e.g., f/1.8, f/1.4) create shallower depth of field and more background blur.
* Lighting: Good lighting is essential for flattering portraits.
* Composition: Pay attention to how you frame your subject.
* Posing: Guide your subject to achieve natural and flattering poses.
* Post-Processing: Editing can enhance your portraits and bring out the best in your subjects.
Experiment and find what works best for you! Happy shooting!