50mm vs 85mm vs 135mm Lens Comparison for Portrait Photography | Which should YOU buy?
In this video, we'll compare two popular prime lenses for portrait photography - the 50mm, 85mm, and 135mm. We'll look at their strengths and weaknesses and how they can affect the final image.
First, we'll explore the 50mm lens - also known as the "nifty fifty." This lens is a favorite among many photographers due to its versatility, compact size, and low price point. It's great for capturing wider portraits, environmental shots, and street photography. There are various price points for all budgets, as I’ve shared in a previous blog post. However, it can sometimes create distortion and may not work as well in tighter spaces.
Next, we'll dive into the 85mm lens - often considered the ideal focal length for portrait photography. This lens excels at compressing distances, creating an incredibly shallow depth of field, and producing sharp, detailed images. However, its larger size and weight can make it more challenging to use for extended periods, and it might not be as adaptable in every shooting scenario. The 50mm and 85mm are typically the two prime lenses that portrait photographers are torn over, so I’ve done a dedicated review for these two focal lengths.
Lastly, I’ll cover the 135mm, a medium telephoto lens designed specifically for portrait photography. It provides a comfortable and flattering focal length for portraits, providing a pleasing amount of bokeh for a shallow depth of field and compressed perspective that helps to isolate your subject from the background.
Throughout this video, I'll showcase sample images taken with both lenses, so you can see firsthand how each lens affects the final result. I will also provide tips and advice on which lens might be best suited to different photography styles and situations.
Understanding the differences between lenses and how they can impact your photography can significantly impact your work. So, let's get started and explore these three fantastic prime lenses!
