The 85mm lens is a favorite among portrait photographers for a good reason. It's versatile, provides excellent subject isolation, and offers natural-looking results even at close distances. In this video, you’ll learn why the 85mm should be part of your gear, regardless of whether you're a professional or an enthusiast.
Coming to you from Saurav Sinha, this insightful video explores the benefits of using an 85mm lens for portrait photography. The focal length is ideal for tighter headshots, where it avoids the distortion common with wider lenses. The video shows examples with different focal lengths, highlighting how the 85mm manages distortion effectively.
The video also emphasizes the flexibility of the 85mm lens. It's not just for tight shots; you can use it for wider compositions too. With an 85mm, the subject remains nicely separated from the background, even when you step back for a wider shot. Whether you're using an f/1.2, f/1.4, or even an f/1.8 version of the lens, you can achieve a similar effect.
In discussing different lenses, Sinha points out that while lenses like the 35mm and 50mm are great, the 85mm has a special appeal. It's versatile and forgiving, making it easier to get good shots without worrying too much about the location. The 85mm’s tighter focal length allows you to focus on smaller parts of the scene and minimize distractions. This capability is particularly useful in busy or less-than-ideal locations, where a wider lens might capture unwanted elements.
Sinha's experience shows that even in challenging lighting conditions, such as backlit scenarios, the 85mm performs well. By shooting wide open at f/1.2, he achieves a beautifully blurred foreground that masks any distractions. However, it's important to note that the 85mm requires a bit of space to work with. In tighter environments, a 50mm lens might be a better choice. Additionally, for those using crop sensor cameras, the 85mm can feel a bit too tight, as it effectively becomes a 130mm lens.
For photographers interested in portraits, fashion, or weddings, the 85mm lens is a must-have. Sinha’s video shows how pairing this lens with even an entry-level camera can significantly enhance image quality. The difference between shooting at f/1.8 and f/2.8 is particularly noticeable in low-light conditions, making it a valuable addition to your kit. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Sinha.
I've had an 85mm for every system I've owned since 1974. (3 Nikkors and 1 SMC Pentax) I chose my first over the Nikkor 105 f/2.5. I agree. It's a MUST HAVE! (Funny... My headshot for comments is a self-portrait shot with an 85mm!)
Use a 50, keep the same distance to subject, and crop to the FOV desired (an 85mm FOV in this case I suppose).
Sensors have enough megapixels and lenses have enough sharpness that the average person will never know the image was cropped.
Of course that said, yes, an 85 would be better - but again, would any customer, or even any photographer, ever notice?
The better choice might be to get a 105 or 135 - something longer enough that can't be reproduced effectively by cropping the 50.
If you have a 50mm, yes. In fact, I've heard it multiple times that owning both 50 and 85 is superfluous. Some people combine 85 with 35 for a versatile kit as these two complement each other nicely.
What's the advantage of using a 50 in your scenario? Why not use an 85? Why is it better to use a 50 and crop rather than just using an 85?
It's just a way of being argumentative. If you want t an 85mm and can use/need then that what your focus should be. Not sure there is any reason to double duty a lens besides 50mm lenses being cheaper frequently. Also your background to subject separation won't be the same on a 50mm.
In a tight space situation the solution is 50/1.2, otherwise 85/1.4. there is no philosophy
You know that that is effectively a 136mm F2.2 lens on the M6, right? Nothing wrong with that, it's just not the focal length the article is about. The 85mm equivalent focal length on Canon APS-C sensors is 53mm. For 85-ish on the EF-M mount you could get the Sigma 56mm F1.4 DC DN or the Viltrox AF 56mm F1.4, which are less than a third of the size and weight of this one.
Hi....
I just purchased an 85mm f1.8 lens a few days ago.
I've heard about it, read about it, so I'd figure I'd give it a try.
Let's see how it goes!!
I used to use a 100mm for candid shots at events. People don't realize you're taking their picture and I was able to get some beautiful blur on the background while keeping their entire face or body in focus. One issue I had was the distance I needed to be away, sometimes it worked well, sometimes I struggled.
I also got decent at blind shooting where I held the camera at my side and took pictures by guessing where it was pointed. I liked the 100 better than my 50, but sometimes I was just too close.
I could see where an 85mm might be a good lens to add to my collection. Thanks for the article.
My 85/1.4 has been my most used lens and is perfect for the waist up shots, but for full body, I go with my 50/1.2. I just have to shoot from too far away and don’t always have the room. I mean sometimes there’s so little room I’ve gone to my 35mm. Each tool is designed for different purposes; it’s up to the master to know when to use each tool.