Unveiled: The Ultimate Guide To Choosing Between 85mm And 50mm Lenses

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Post on Mar 15, 2025

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Unveiled: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Between 85mm and 50mm Lenses

Choosing between an 85mm and a 50mm lens can feel like a photography riddle. Both are popular focal lengths, celebrated for their image quality and versatility, but they cater to different photographic styles and needs. This comprehensive guide will dissect the strengths and weaknesses of each, helping you make the informed decision that's right for you.

Understanding Focal Length: Perspective and Compression

Before diving into the specifics of 85mm vs. 50mm, let's quickly grasp the concept of focal length. It dictates the field of view and perspective of your image. A shorter focal length (like 50mm) offers a wider field of view, closer to what the human eye sees. A longer focal length (like 85mm) provides a narrower field of view, resulting in background compression – that pleasing blurring effect that makes subjects pop.

The 50mm Lens: The Nifty Fifty and its Allure

The 50mm lens, often dubbed the "nifty fifty," is a classic for a reason. Its versatility makes it a fantastic all-around choice for many photographers.

Advantages of a 50mm Lens:

• Versatility: Suitable for a wide range of photography genres, from street photography and landscapes to portraits and even some indoor shots.
• Compact and Lightweight: Generally smaller and lighter than 85mm lenses, making them ideal for travel and everyday shooting.
• Affordability: 50mm lenses are often the most affordable option in their class, making them an excellent entry point for photographers.
• Excellent Image Quality: Many 50mm lenses offer exceptional sharpness and detail.
• Great for Low Light: With a relatively wide aperture (often f/1.8 or f/1.4), they excel in low-light situations.

Disadvantages of a 50mm Lens:

• Limited Reach: The wider field of view means you might need to get closer to your subject, which can be a challenge in certain situations.
• Less Background Compression: Compared to the 85mm, background blur (bokeh) is less pronounced.

The 85mm Lens: The Portrait Master

The 85mm lens is frequently hailed as the king of portrait lenses. Its longer focal length delivers that signature compression and shallow depth of field, making subjects stand out beautifully.

Advantages of an 85mm Lens:

• Exceptional Bokeh: Creates a beautifully blurred background, isolating your subject and drawing the viewer's eye.
• Excellent Subject Isolation: The narrow field of view makes it ideal for portraits, emphasizing the subject and minimizing distractions.
• Natural Perspective: The compression effect creates a more flattering perspective, especially for portraits.

Disadvantages of an 85mm Lens:

• Less Versatile: Not as well-suited for wide shots or landscapes. It requires more space and strategic positioning.
• More Expensive: Generally more expensive than comparable 50mm lenses.
• Requires More Distance: You'll need more distance from your subject to achieve the same framing as with a 50mm.

Which Lens Should You Choose? The Verdict

The "best" lens depends entirely on your photographic priorities and shooting style:

• Choose a 50mm lens if: You need a versatile, affordable lens for a range of subjects and situations. You prioritize compactness and portability.
• Choose an 85mm lens if: Portraiture is your primary focus. You value exceptional bokeh and subject isolation. You're comfortable with a less versatile, but more specialized lens.

Ultimately, consider your budget, your photographic style, and the types of images you most frequently shoot. Don't be afraid to try both focal lengths if possible! Renting lenses before committing to a purchase is a wise investment in your photographic journey. Both the 50mm and 85mm lenses offer distinct advantages, and the right choice will significantly enhance your photography.