Which Prime Lens to Choose for Portraits: 35mm, 50mm or 85mm, a Comparison Guide
When it comes to portrait photography, the choice of lens can significantly impact the quality and style of your images. Prime lenses, known for their fixed focal lengths and superior optical quality, are often favored by photographers for capturing stunning portraits. Among the most popular options are the 35mm, 50mm, and 85mm lenses. Each of these lenses has its unique characteristics, advantages, and ideal use cases. In this article, we will explore the differences between these three prime lenses to help you make an informed decision for your portrait photography needs.
Understanding the Focal Lengths
The focal length of a lens determines its field of view and perspective. Here’s a brief overview of the three focal lengths in question:
- 35mm: Offers a wider field of view, making it suitable for environmental portraits where you want to include more of the background.
- 50mm: Often referred to as the “nifty fifty,” this lens provides a natural perspective that closely resembles human vision, making it versatile for various types of portraits.
- 85mm: Known for its flattering compression and ability to isolate subjects, this lens is a favorite for traditional portraiture.
35mm Lens: The Environmental Portraitist
The 35mm lens is an excellent choice for photographers who want to capture their subjects in context. This lens allows you to include more of the environment, which can tell a story about the subject.
- Pros:
- Wider field of view allows for more background detail.
- Great for capturing candid moments in social settings.
- Versatile for both portraits and landscape photography.
- Cons:
- Can introduce distortion, especially at close distances.
- Less effective for isolating subjects from the background.
For example, a photographer might use a 35mm lens to capture a portrait of a musician in their studio, showcasing both the artist and their instruments, creating a narrative within the image.
50mm Lens: The Versatile Workhorse
The 50mm lens is often considered the go-to lens for portrait photographers due to its versatility and natural perspective. It strikes a balance between capturing the subject and providing enough context.
- Pros:
- Natural perspective that mimics human vision.
- Good for both full-body and headshot portraits.
- Typically more affordable and lightweight.
- Cons:
- May require more space to achieve desired compositions.
- Less compression compared to longer focal lengths.
For instance, a wedding photographer might use a 50mm lens to capture intimate moments between the couple, providing a balance of emotion and context without overwhelming the viewer with background details.
85mm Lens: The Portrait Specialist
The 85mm lens is often regarded as the gold standard for portrait photography. Its longer focal length allows for beautiful subject isolation and flattering compression.
- Pros:
- Excellent subject isolation with a shallow depth of field.
- Flattering compression that enhances facial features.
- Ideal for headshots and close-up portraits.
- Cons:
- Requires more distance from the subject, which may not be suitable for all environments.
- Less versatile for capturing wider scenes.
A portrait photographer might choose an 85mm lens for a studio session, allowing them to create stunning headshots with a beautifully blurred background that emphasizes the subject’s features.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Lens for Your Portraits
In summary, the choice between a 35mm, 50mm, or 85mm prime lens for portrait photography ultimately depends on your style, the context of your shoots, and the type of portraits you wish to create. Here are the key takeaways:
- 35mm: Best for environmental portraits where context is essential.
- 50mm: A versatile option that works well for various portrait styles.
- 85mm: Ideal for traditional portraits with flattering compression and subject isolation.
By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each lens, you can select the one that best fits your artistic vision and enhances your portrait photography. Whether you’re capturing candid moments or creating stunning headshots, the right prime lens can make all the difference.