When it comes to portrait photography, the choice of lens can significantly impact the outcome of your images. Two of the most popular focal lengths for capturing stunning portraits are 50mm and 85mm. Both have their unique characteristics, advantages, and uses, making the decision between them a bit daunting for many photographers. In this article, we will delve into the details of each lens, exploring their optical qualities, applications, and the overall aesthetic they bring to portrait photography, to help you decide which one is better suited for your needs.
Understanding The Basics Of Focal Length
Before we dive into the specifics of 50mm and 85mm lenses, it’s essential to understand the basics of focal length and how it affects your photographs. The focal length of a lens determines its angle of view and magnification. A shorter focal length (like 50mm) provides a wider angle of view and less magnification, whereas a longer focal length (like 85mm) offers a narrower angle of view and more magnification. This fundamental difference influences the perspective, depth of field, and overall look of your portraits.
The Perspective And Compression
Perspective and compression are critical factors in portrait photography. Perspective refers to how the lens renders the relationship between objects in the scene, while compression refers to how the lens makes objects appear closer together or farther apart. The 50mm lens, with its wider angle of view, can sometimes produce a less flattering perspective, especially when used close to the subject, potentially accentuating the size of facial features in an unflattering way. On the other hand, the 85mm lens, with its narrower angle of view, compresses the perspective, making facial features appear more natural and balanced. This phenomenon is particularly noticeable when shooting full-body or half-body portraits, as the 85mm lens can create a more pleasing, natural compression of the body.
Depth Of Field And Bokeh
Depth of field and bokeh are also essential considerations. The depth of field refers to the area in focus within the image, while bokeh is the aesthetic quality of the blur produced in the out-of-focus parts of the image. Both the 50mm and 85mm lenses can achieve a shallow depth of field when used at wide apertures (like f/1.4 or f/1.8), separating the subject from the background and creating a beautiful bokeh. However, due to its longer focal length, the 85mm lens tends to produce a slightly more pronounced bokeh when compared to the 50mm lens at the same aperture, enhancing the isolation of the subject.
Practical Applications And Considerations
In practice, the choice between a 50mm and an 85mm lens for portraits often comes down to personal preference, the type of portrait being taken, and the available working space.
Studio Vs Location Shooting
When shooting in a studio, where space is more controlled and ample, the 85mm lens might be preferred for its flattering perspective and deeper compression, especially for close-up and headshot portraits. However, in tighter locations or when more environmental context is desired, the 50mm lens can offer the necessary width to include more of the scene without the need for excessive backward movement, providing a more dynamic and contextually rich portrait.
Lighting And Additional Factors
Lighting conditions and the ability to work with available light can also influence the choice between these lenses. The 50mm lens, being wider, might be more forgiving in low-light conditions due to its ability to capture more of the scene, potentially including more ambient light. However, the 85mm lens, with its ability to create a more dramatic bokeh, can often make better use of available light to create depth and separation.
Conclusion And Recommendations
Ultimately, whether the 50mm or 85mm lens is better for portraits depends on your specific needs, the style of portraits you aim to capture, and your personal preference regarding perspective, compression, and bokeh. The 50mm lens offers a versatile, wider perspective that can be ideal for environmental portraits or when working in tighter spaces, emphasizing the subject’s place within their environment. The 85mm lens, with its more flattering compression and potentially more pleasing bokeh, is often the go-to choice for traditional, close-up portraits where isolation and natural perspective are key, enhancing the subject’s features in a more classic, timeless manner.
For those just starting out in portrait photography, the 50mm lens can be a fantastic entry point due to its versatility and generally lower cost. However, for those looking to specialize in portrait photography, especially in a studio setting or aiming for a more classic, polished look, the 85mm lens is certainly worth considering. Both lenses, when used with an understanding of their unique qualities, can produce stunning portraits that capture the essence and beauty of the subject.
Final Thoughts
In the world of portrait photography, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. The choice between a 50mm and an 85mm lens should be made with consideration of the specific demands of the shoot, the desired aesthetic, and the photographer’s personal style. By understanding the strengths and applications of each lens, photographers can make informed decisions that help them capture portraits that are not only technically sound but also visually compelling and emotionally resonant. Whether you find yourself leaning towards the versatility of the 50mm or the elegance of the 85mm, the key to exceptional portrait photography lies in mastering the nuances of your chosen lens and using it to tell stories that inspire and connect with your audience.
What Are The Key Differences Between 50mm And 85mm Lenses For Portrait Photography?
The primary difference between 50mm and 85mm lenses for portrait photography lies in their focal lengths, which significantly impact the perspective and compression of the image. A 50mm lens provides a wider angle of view, making it more suitable for capturing environmental portraits or portraits where the subject’s surroundings are essential to the story. On the other hand, an 85mm lens offers a narrower angle of view, which is more flattering for traditional, tightly-framed portraits. This tighter framing helps to isolate the subject from the background, emphasizing their features and expressions.
In terms of the aesthetic effects of these lenses, the 50mm lens tends to produce a more natural perspective, similar to what the human eye sees. This can result in portraits that feel more candid and intimate. In contrast, the 85mm lens introduces a slight compression effect, which can be beneficial for portraits as it helps to reduce the apparent size of the subject’s nose and other facial features, leading to a more pleasing and professional-looking image. Understanding these differences is crucial for photographers to choose the lens that best fits their creative vision and the type of portrait they aim to capture.
How Do 50mm And 85mm Lenses Compare In Terms Of Background Blur And Bokeh?
When it comes to background blur and bokeh (the aesthetic quality of the blur), both 50mm and 85mm lenses can produce pleasing effects, but they differ in their approach. The 50mm lens, due to its wider angle, may require a closer shooting distance or a wider aperture to achieve significant background blur. This can be advantageous for creating a sense of depth and layering in the image. On the other hand, the 85mm lens, with its narrower angle of view, naturally lends itself to creating a more blurred background with less effort, thanks to its longer focal length, which can make background elements less distracting and emphasize the subject.
The quality of the bokeh produced by these lenses also varies. Generally, lenses with a higher number of aperture blades and a wider maximum aperture (like f/1.4 or f/1.8) will produce a smoother, more circular bokeh. Both 50mm and 85mm lenses are available in versions with wide apertures, but the 85mm lens, particularly those with high-quality optics, tends to be revered for its ability to produce exceptionally smooth and creamy bokeh. This makes the 85mm lens a favorite among portrait photographers seeking to minimize distractions and maximize the visual appeal of their subject against a beautifully blurred background.
What Role Does The Aperture Play In Choosing Between A 50mm And 85mm Lens For Portraits?
The aperture of a lens, which controls the amount of light that enters the camera, plays a significant role in portrait photography, affecting the depth of field and the overall look of the image. Both 50mm and 85mm lenses are available with a range of apertures, but for portrait work, lenses with wide apertures (small f-stop numbers like f/1.4, f/1.8, or f/2.8) are often preferred. These wide apertures allow for a shallow depth of field, which helps to isolate the subject from the background, making the subject stand out. Between the two, an 85mm lens with a wide aperture is particularly effective for portraits, as it combines the flattering perspective of a longer focal length with the ability to significantly blur the background.
The choice between a 50mm and 85mm lens may also depend on the photographer’s preference for working with light and their approach to portrait photography. For example, a photographer who prefers a more natural, environmental look might opt for a 50mm lens with a wide aperture, as it allows for a greater context while still providing a good level of background blur. Conversely, a photographer aiming for a more classic, formal portrait look might prefer an 85mm lens with a wide aperture, as it provides a more compressed perspective and a beautiful, blurred background, isolating the subject and drawing the viewer’s attention to their face and expression.
How Does The Working Distance Affect The Choice Between 50mm And 85mm Lenses For Portraits?
The working distance, or the distance between the camera and the subject, is another critical factor to consider when choosing between 50mm and 85mm lenses for portraits. The 50mm lens requires a shorter working distance to fill the frame with the subject’s face or upper body, which can be beneficial for creating a sense of intimacy and immediacy in the photograph. This closer working distance can also facilitate interaction and communication between the photographer and the subject, potentially leading to more natural and expressive portraits. However, it may also increase the likelihood of perspective distortions, particularly if the lens is not of high optical quality.
In contrast, the 85mm lens necessitates a longer working distance, which can be advantageous for minimizing perspective distortions and capturing a more flattering representation of the subject. This increased distance can also make the subject feel more at ease, as they may not feel as intensely scrutinized or invaded by the camera’s presence. Nonetheless, it requires more space to work, which can be a limitation in confined environments. Ultimately, the choice between these lenses should consider the available working space, the desired level of intimacy or formality, and the photographer’s personal style and preferences.
Can 50mm And 85mm Lenses Be Used For Other Types Of Photography Besides Portraits?
Both 50mm and 85mm lenses are versatile and can be used for a variety of photographic applications beyond portraits. The 50mm lens, with its standard focal length and wide aperture, is particularly well-suited for street photography, documentary work, and general everyday photography. Its ability to capture a wide scene with a natural perspective makes it an excellent choice for photographers who want to tell stories through their images without the distortion that can come with wider or longer lenses. Additionally, the 50mm lens can be used for landscape and interior photography, where its moderate wide-angle capability can help capture more of the scene.
The 85mm lens, while often associated with portraits, can also be used for other genres such as still life, product photography, and even landscape photography, especially when a more compressed perspective is desired. Its longer focal length and ability to blur the background make it suitable for isolating subjects in complex environments. Furthermore, the 85mm lens can be a good option for wildlife or sports photography, particularly when a telephoto effect is needed but a full telephoto lens is not required. This versatility makes both the 50mm and 85mm lenses valuable additions to any photographer’s kit, offering a range of creative possibilities beyond portrait photography.
How Do Lens Quality And Brand Affect The Choice Between 50mm And 85mm Lenses For Portraits?
The quality of the lens and the brand manufacturing it play significant roles in the choice between 50mm and 85mm lenses for portraits. High-quality lenses, typically produced by reputable brands, offer superior optical performance, including better sharpness, contrast, and resistance to aberrations. These factors are crucial for portrait photography, where the goal is often to capture the subject with clarity and precision. Brands like Canon, Nikon, and Sony, along with independent manufacturers such as Zeiss and Sigma, offer a range of 50mm and 85mm lenses that cater to different budgets and preferences, from entry-level options to professional-grade lenses with advanced features and exceptional optical quality.
The choice of brand can also depend on the photographer’s existing camera system, as most lens manufacturers design their lenses to work optimally with their own camera bodies. For example, a Canon user might prefer Canon lenses for their compatibility and potential advantages in terms of autofocus speed and image stabilization. Similarly, a Nikon user might opt for Nikon lenses. Independent brands, however, offer lenses that can be used across different camera systems with the use of adapters, providing more flexibility for photographers who work with multiple brands or consider switching systems in the future. Ultimately, the decision should balance the desired optical quality, features, and budget with the compatibility and ecosystem of the photographer’s current camera setup.