50mm Lens:
Pros:
* Versatile: Can be used for a wider range of shots beyond just tight portraits. Good for environmental portraits where you want to include more of the background.
* Often Affordable: 50mm lenses, especially the f/1.8 versions, are typically much more budget-friendly than 85mm lenses. This makes them a great starting point for beginners.
* Good in Tight Spaces: Easier to use indoors or in confined areas where you can't back up as far.
* More Natural Perspective (Sometimes): Approximates human vision more closely than longer focal lengths.
* Easier to Work with Groups: More conducive to including multiple subjects in the frame without needing a wide-angle lens.
Cons:
* More Distortion: Closer to the "standard" focal length, it can exhibit slight distortion, particularly at the edges of the frame, which can affect facial features, especially if you're too close to your subject.
* Less Background Blur (Bokeh): Generally creates less background blur (bokeh) compared to an 85mm lens, especially if they have a similar aperture.
* Requires You to Get Closer: May make some subjects feel uncomfortable if you need to get very close for headshots.
85mm Lens:
Pros:
* Excellent for Portraiture: Considered by many to be *the* classic portrait focal length.
* Flattering Perspective: Compresses features in a way that many find flattering, minimizing distortion.
* Great Bokeh: Creates a beautiful, shallow depth of field, isolating the subject and creating a dreamy background blur.
* Comfortable Working Distance: Allows you to maintain a reasonable distance from your subject, which can be more comfortable for both of you.
* Good for Indoor and Outdoor: Effective in both settings.
Cons:
* More Expensive: Typically more expensive than 50mm lenses, especially those with fast apertures (e.g., f/1.4).
* Less Versatile: More specialized for portraiture. Can be more difficult to use for wider shots or in tight spaces.
* Can Feel Limiting: Can be restrictive if you're in a small space or want to include more of the environment in your portraits.
* May Require More Space: You need to be further away from your subject, which might not be possible in all situations.
Here's a simple table summarizing the key differences:
| Feature | 50mm | 85mm |
|-----------------|------------------------|------------------------|
| Versatility | High | Lower |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Background Blur | Less | More |
| Perspective | Can be less flattering| More flattering |
| Working Distance| Closer | Further |
| Space Required | Less | More |
| Distortion | More Potential | Less Potential |
Which should you choose?
* If you're on a budget: Start with the 50mm. It's a great all-around lens and will teach you a lot.
* If you want the classic portrait look: Go for the 85mm. The compression and background blur are stunning.
* If you shoot in small spaces frequently: The 50mm is the better option.
* If you want to include a lot of the background in your portraits: The 50mm is the better option.
* If you're unsure: Try renting both lenses and experiment to see which you prefer.
Ultimately, the best way to decide is to try both focal lengths and see which one suits your style and needs best. Consider the types of portraits you want to take, the environments you'll be shooting in, and your budget. There's no right or wrong answer! Both lenses are capable of producing beautiful portraits. Good luck!