When it comes to portrait photography, two lenses stand out from the rest: the 50mm and the 85mm. Both lenses have their own unique characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of these two popular lenses, exploring their differences, and helping you decide which one is best suited for your photography needs.
Understanding The Basics: Focal Length And Angle Of View
Before we dive into the specifics of each lens, it’s essential to understand the basics of focal length and angle of view. The focal length of a lens determines the angle of view, which is the amount of the scene that the lens can capture. A shorter focal length (e.g., 24mm) has a wider angle of view, while a longer focal length (e.g., 200mm) has a narrower angle of view.
The 50mm lens has a focal length that is considered “standard” or “normal.” It has an angle of view that is similar to the human eye, making it an excellent choice for everyday photography. On the other hand, the 85mm lens has a slightly longer focal length, which provides a narrower angle of view. This makes it ideal for portrait photography, as it allows for a more intimate and flattering perspective.
Compression And Perspective
One of the most significant differences between the 50mm and 85mm lenses is the way they handle compression and perspective. Compression refers to the way a lens compresses or expands the distance between objects in the scene. The 50mm lens has a relatively low compression factor, which means that objects in the scene will appear more natural and proportional.
In contrast, the 85mm lens has a higher compression factor, which can make objects appear closer together than they actually are. This can be beneficial for portrait photography, as it can create a more flattering and slimming effect on the subject’s face and body.
Example: Compression in Portrait Photography
For example, let’s say you’re photographing a subject with a prominent nose. If you use a 50mm lens, the nose may appear more pronounced due to the lower compression factor. However, if you switch to an 85mm lens, the nose may appear smaller and less prominent due to the higher compression factor.
Aperture And Depth Of Field
Another critical aspect to consider when choosing between the 50mm and 85mm lenses is aperture and depth of field. Aperture refers to the size of the lens opening, which controls the amount of light that enters the camera. A larger aperture (e.g., f/1.4) allows more light in and creates a shallower depth of field, while a smaller aperture (e.g., f/16) allows less light in and creates a deeper depth of field.
Both the 50mm and 85mm lenses are available with a range of apertures, from f/1.4 to f/16. However, the 85mm lens tends to have a slightly larger aperture, which can create a more dramatic and creamy bokeh (background blur).
Example: Aperture In Portrait Photography
For example, let’s say you’re photographing a subject in a busy environment, and you want to blur the background to create a more intimate atmosphere. If you use a 50mm lens with an aperture of f/2.8, you may not be able to achieve the desired level of background blur. However, if you switch to an 85mm lens with an aperture of f/1.4, you can create a much more dramatic and creamy bokeh.
Image Stabilization And Low-Light Performance
Image stabilization and low-light performance are two critical factors to consider when choosing between the 50mm and 85mm lenses. Image stabilization refers to the lens’s ability to reduce camera shake and blur caused by hand movement or low light.
The 85mm lens tends to have better image stabilization than the 50mm lens, which makes it ideal for handheld shooting in low-light conditions. Additionally, the 85mm lens tends to perform better in low-light conditions due to its slightly larger aperture and more advanced optics.
Example: Image Stabilization In Low-Light Photography
For example, let’s say you’re photographing a subject in a dimly lit room, and you need to handheld the camera. If you use a 50mm lens without image stabilization, you may end up with blurry images due to camera shake. However, if you switch to an 85mm lens with image stabilization, you can achieve sharper images even in low-light conditions.
Weight And Size
Finally, let’s consider the weight and size of the 50mm and 85mm lenses. The 50mm lens is generally smaller and lighter than the 85mm lens, making it easier to carry around and more convenient for everyday photography.
However, the 85mm lens is still relatively compact and lightweight, especially when compared to other telephoto lenses. Additionally, the 85mm lens tends to have a more premium build quality and a more comfortable design, which makes it easier to handle and use.
Example: Weight And Size In Travel Photography
For example, let’s say you’re traveling to a foreign country and you need to pack light. If you choose to bring a 50mm lens, you’ll have more space in your camera bag for other essentials. However, if you choose to bring an 85mm lens, you may need to sacrifice some space in your camera bag due to its slightly larger size.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 50mm and 85mm lenses are both excellent choices for portrait photography, but they have distinct differences in terms of focal length, compression, aperture, image stabilization, and weight. The 50mm lens is ideal for everyday photography, while the 85mm lens is better suited for portrait photography due to its flattering perspective and creamy bokeh.
Ultimately, the choice between the 50mm and 85mm lenses depends on your personal preferences, photography style, and needs. If you’re looking for a versatile lens that can handle a variety of situations, the 50mm lens may be the better choice. However, if you’re looking for a lens that can create stunning portraits with a unique perspective and creamy bokeh, the 85mm lens is the way to go.
| Lens | Focal Length | Angle of View | Aperture | Image Stabilization | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 50mm | 50mm | 46.8° | f/1.4 – f/16 | No | 200g |
| 85mm | 85mm | 28.5° | f/1.4 – f/16 | Yes | 350g |
By considering the differences between the 50mm and 85mm lenses, you can make an informed decision and choose the lens that best suits your photography needs.
What Are The Main Differences Between A 50mm And 85mm Lens?
The main differences between a 50mm and 85mm lens lie in their focal lengths, which affect the angle of view, depth of field, and compression. A 50mm lens has a wider angle of view, making it more suitable for capturing scenes with a broader perspective, such as landscapes, street photography, and group portraits. On the other hand, an 85mm lens has a narrower angle of view, making it ideal for capturing portraits with a more intimate and flattering perspective.
In terms of depth of field, an 85mm lens tends to have a shallower depth of field compared to a 50mm lens, which means it can create a more pronounced bokeh effect, separating the subject from the background. This makes the 85mm lens a popular choice for portrait photographers who want to create a sense of intimacy and isolation.
Which Lens Is Better For Portraits?
The 85mm lens is generally considered better for portraits due to its narrower angle of view and shallower depth of field. This allows for a more flattering perspective and a more pronounced bokeh effect, which can help to separate the subject from the background. Additionally, the 85mm lens tends to be more forgiving when it comes to facial features, as it can help to reduce the appearance of imperfections and create a more pleasing, rounded shape.
However, the 50mm lens can also be used for portraits, especially when a more environmental or contextual approach is desired. The wider angle of view can help to capture more of the subject’s surroundings, which can add context and interest to the image. Ultimately, the choice between a 50mm and 85mm lens for portraits depends on the desired aesthetic and the type of portrait being taken.
Is A 50mm Lens Good For Street Photography?
Yes, a 50mm lens can be an excellent choice for street photography due to its wide angle of view and relatively fast aperture. The 50mm lens allows for a broad perspective, making it easier to capture scenes and moments in a busy street environment. Additionally, the fast aperture enables the creation of a shallow depth of field, which can help to isolate subjects and create a sense of intimacy.
The 50mm lens is also relatively compact and discreet, making it easy to carry and use in a street photography setting. Many photographers prefer the 50mm lens for street photography because it allows them to get close to their subjects without being too obtrusive, and it can help to create a sense of immediacy and connection with the scene.
Can I Use An 85mm Lens For Landscape Photography?
While an 85mm lens can be used for landscape photography, it may not be the most ideal choice due to its narrow angle of view. The 85mm lens tends to isolate specific elements within the landscape, rather than capturing the broader scene. However, this can be used to creative effect, especially when combined with a wide aperture to create a shallow depth of field.
In some cases, the 85mm lens can be used to create a sense of intimacy and connection with the landscape, especially when capturing details or specific features. However, for more expansive and sweeping vistas, a wider-angle lens may be more suitable.
Which Lens Is More Versatile?
The 50mm lens is generally considered more versatile due to its wider angle of view and faster aperture. This makes it suitable for a wide range of applications, including portraits, street photography, landscapes, and more. The 50mm lens can also be used in a variety of lighting conditions, from bright sunlight to low light, making it a reliable choice for many photographers.
In contrast, the 85mm lens is more specialized and tends to be used primarily for portraits and close-up work. While it can be used for other applications, its narrower angle of view and shallower depth of field make it less versatile than the 50mm lens.
Is The 85mm Lens Worth The Investment?
Whether or not the 85mm lens is worth the investment depends on your specific needs and preferences as a photographer. If you specialize in portrait photography or want to create a specific aesthetic with a shallow depth of field, the 85mm lens may be a valuable addition to your kit. However, if you are a generalist or prefer a more versatile lens, the 50mm lens may be a better choice.
It’s also worth considering the cost of the 85mm lens, which can be significantly higher than the 50mm lens. If you are on a budget or just starting out, the 50mm lens may be a more affordable and practical option.
Can I Use A 50mm Lens For Close-up Photography?
Yes, a 50mm lens can be used for close-up photography, especially when combined with extension tubes or close-up lenses. The 50mm lens can provide a relatively high level of magnification, making it suitable for capturing small details and textures. However, the working distance may be shorter compared to an 85mm lens, which can make it more challenging to capture certain subjects.
In general, the 50mm lens is not as ideal for close-up photography as the 85mm lens, which tends to provide a higher level of magnification and a more comfortable working distance. However, with the right accessories and techniques, the 50mm lens can still be used to capture high-quality close-up images.