Here's a breakdown of the pros and cons of each:
50mm Lens:
Pros:
* Versatile: A 50mm lens is considered a "standard" focal length and is quite versatile. It can be used for a variety of shots, including full-body, environmental, and even some tighter portraits.
* More of the Environment: It captures more of the surrounding environment, which is great for environmental portraits that tell a story about the subject's life or location.
* Affordable: 50mm lenses, particularly the f/1.8 versions, are often very affordable, making them a great starting point for beginners.
* Lightweight and Compact: Generally smaller and lighter than 85mm lenses, making them easier to carry around for extended shoots.
* Easier to Communicate: Since you need to be a bit closer to your subject, it can make communication easier and more natural.
Cons:
* Distortion: Can introduce some minor distortion, especially when shooting close-ups. This can make facial features appear slightly wider or more exaggerated.
* Less Background Blur (Bokeh): While you can achieve shallow depth of field, it's not as pronounced as with longer focal lengths.
* Perspective: Because you need to be closer, your perspective can sometimes feel less flattering compared to an 85mm lens.
85mm Lens:
Pros:
* Flattering Perspective: The longer focal length is generally considered more flattering for portraits. It compresses features and reduces distortion, making subjects look more natural.
* Beautiful Background Blur (Bokeh): Creates a very shallow depth of field, isolating the subject and creating a beautiful, creamy background. This helps the subject "pop."
* More Distance: Allows you to maintain some distance from your subject, which can be helpful for capturing candid or natural expressions. It can also be less intimidating for subjects who are camera-shy.
* Sharpness: Many 85mm lenses are incredibly sharp.
Cons:
* Less Versatile: Less versatile than a 50mm lens. It's primarily designed for portraits and may not be suitable for wider shots or environmental portraits.
* More Expensive: 85mm lenses, especially those with wide apertures (f/1.8 or faster), tend to be more expensive than 50mm lenses.
* Heavier and Bulkier: Typically larger and heavier, making them less convenient for carrying around.
* Communication: Can be harder to communicate with your subject due to the increased distance.
* Space Requirements: Requires more space to work with, especially for full-body portraits. May not be ideal for shooting in small studios or tight spaces.
Here's a Table Summarizing the Key Differences:
| Feature | 50mm | 85mm |
|-----------------|--------------------------------|--------------------------------|
| Versatility | High | Low |
| Perspective | Can be less flattering | More flattering |
| Background Blur | Less pronounced | More pronounced |
| Distortion | More likely | Less likely |
| Price | Generally more affordable | Generally more expensive |
| Size/Weight | Smaller and lighter | Larger and heavier |
| Space Needed | Less | More |
| Communication | Easier | More challenging |
When to Choose Which Lens:
* Choose 50mm if:
* You want a versatile lens that can be used for various types of photography.
* You're on a budget.
* You're shooting in tight spaces.
* You want to capture more of the environment around your subject.
* You're new to portrait photography and want an affordable starting point.
* Choose 85mm if:
* You prioritize flattering perspective and creamy background blur.
* You want to isolate your subject and create a sense of intimacy.
* You have enough space to work with.
* You want to capture candid expressions without being too close.
* You're looking for a dedicated portrait lens.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which lens is right for you is to try them both out. Rent or borrow each lens and experiment with different settings and subjects.
Other Considerations:
* Crop Sensor vs. Full Frame: If you're shooting with a crop sensor camera, the focal length is effectively multiplied (usually by 1.5x or 1.6x). This means a 50mm lens will behave more like a 75mm or 80mm lens, and an 85mm lens will behave like a longer telephoto. Consider this when choosing your lens.
* Aperture: Both 50mm and 85mm lenses are commonly available with wide apertures (e.g., f/1.8, f/1.4, f/1.2). A wider aperture allows for more light to enter the camera, resulting in brighter images and shallower depth of field.
* Image Stabilization (IS/VR): Image stabilization can be helpful, especially in low-light situations or when shooting handheld. While not strictly necessary, it can improve the sharpness of your images.
In conclusion, there's no definitive "winner" in the 50mm vs. 85mm debate. Both lenses have their strengths and weaknesses. The best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Experiment and see which lens you prefer the results of and which fits your shooting style better. Many photographers own and use both for different situations.