Here's a breakdown to help you decide which might be better for you:
50mm Lens for Portrait Photography:
Pros:
* Versatility: The 50mm is often called the "nifty fifty" for a reason. It's a versatile lens that can be used for more than just portraits. You can use it for street photography, landscapes, general photography, and even some documentary work.
* Wider Field of View: Allows you to include more of the environment in your portraits, telling more of a story. Good for environmental portraits and capturing the subject in their context.
* Closer to Natural Vision: The 50mm has a field of view that's close to how the human eye perceives things, making images feel natural and less compressed.
* Smaller and Lighter: Generally smaller and lighter than an 85mm, making it easier to carry around for long shoots.
* Affordable: 50mm lenses are typically much more affordable than 85mm lenses, especially the f/1.8 versions.
* Easier to Shoot in Tight Spaces: The wider field of view makes it easier to work in smaller studios or rooms.
Cons:
* Can Distort Features: When shooting close-up portraits, the 50mm can introduce slight distortion, especially around the edges of the frame. This might make features like noses appear larger.
* Requires You to Get Closer: You need to get closer to your subject, which might make some people feel uncomfortable or self-conscious.
* Less Background Blur (Bokeh): While you can still achieve shallow depth of field, the background blur (bokeh) is typically less pronounced than with an 85mm lens at the same aperture.
85mm Lens for Portrait Photography:
Pros:
* Flattering Perspective: The 85mm lens is known for its flattering perspective, which helps to compress features and create a more pleasing image.
* Beautiful Bokeh: The longer focal length and typically wider maximum aperture (e.g., f/1.8, f/1.4, f/1.2) create stunning background blur (bokeh), isolating the subject and making them stand out.
* Subject Isolation: The compressed perspective and shallow depth of field beautifully isolate the subject, drawing the viewer's attention to them.
* Comfortable Distance: Allows you to maintain a comfortable distance from your subject, which can make them feel more relaxed and natural.
* Reduced Distortion: Less likely to cause distortion in facial features compared to a 50mm.
Cons:
* Less Versatile: Primarily a portrait lens. Not as well-suited for other types of photography.
* Larger and Heavier: Generally larger and heavier than a 50mm, which can be a burden on long shoots.
* More Expensive: Typically more expensive than a 50mm lens.
* Requires More Space: You need more space between you and your subject, which can be challenging in small studios or indoor locations.
* May Compress the Background Too Much: While subject isolation is a benefit, it can also make the background appear too close and flat if not composed carefully.
Here's a quick summary table:
| Feature | 50mm | 85mm |
|----------------|----------------------------|----------------------------|
| Versatility | High | Low |
| Perspective | Closer to natural vision | Flattering, compressed |
| Bokeh | Less pronounced | More pronounced |
| Distance | Requires getting closer | Comfortable distance |
| Distortion | More potential for distortion| Less distortion |
| Size/Weight | Smaller, lighter | Larger, heavier |
| Price | More affordable | More expensive |
| Space | Works well in tight spaces| Needs more space |
Which is right for you? Consider these questions:
* What style of portraits do you want to shoot? Environmental? Close-up headshots? Full-body?
* What is your budget?
* What kind of space do you usually work in?
* How comfortable are you getting close to your subjects?
* Do you want a lens that's versatile for other types of photography?
* Do you prioritize subject isolation and background blur above all else?
In conclusion:
* Choose the 50mm if: You want a versatile, affordable lens that's good for environmental portraits and general photography, and you're comfortable getting closer to your subjects.
* Choose the 85mm if: You prioritize flattering portraits with beautiful background blur and subject isolation, you have the space to work with, and you're comfortable with a less versatile lens.
Ultimately, the best way to decide is to try both lenses out (rent them, borrow them, or visit a camera store) and see which one fits your style and needs better.