Choosing the Right Lens for Portraits and Landscapes: Nikon 50mm f/1.8G vs Samyang/Rokinon 85mm f/1.4

Photography is as much about the equipment as it is about the subject and the artistic vision behind the camera. When it comes to choosing lenses for specific photography genres, the Nikon 50mm f/1.8G and the Samyang/Rokinon 85mm f/1.4 stand out. Both are popular choices for professional and amateur photographers alike, but which one is the better fit for portraits and landscapes? This article will explore the differences and offer guidance on when to use each lens.

Understanding Bokeh: The Key to Portraits

In photography, bokeh refers to the quality of out-of-focus areas in an image. For portraits, bokeh is often the deciding factor in lens choice because it contributes to the overall aesthetic appeal of the image. The Nikon 85mm f/1.4 is renowned for its exceptional bokeh, creating a smooth, creamy background that draws the viewer's eye directly to the subject. This is ideal for portraits where the focus is on the person or model, providing a professional and flattering effect.

Optimal Use for the Nikon 50mm f/1.8G

While the Nikon 50mm f/1.8G is a workhorse lens for a variety of photography types, it may not excel in the same way as the 85mm for portraiture. For landscapes, however, this lens can still offer great results. Its shallow depth of field at f/1.8 allows for selective focus, giving both far and near elements in the scene a balanced level of sharpness. However, it is important to note that while the 50mm f/1.8G can produce some distortion when used for portrait shots, especially for full-body or head shots, it is less noticeable on a wider sensor like the FX (Full Frame).

Lens Compatibility with Camera Sensor

The choice between the two lenses can heavily depend on the camera body you are using. For full frame cameras, such as the Nikon Fx system, the 85mm f/1.4 is a perfect match. You can create images with a shallow depth of field without the need to stop down to f/2.8, allowing for the background to remain out of focus and the subject to stand out. However, if you using an APS-C (Nikon DX) sensor camera, the 50mm f/1.8G becomes a better choice. The lens's distortion is less noticeable on smaller sensor sizes, and you can get the same level of sharpness and bokeh at a lower f-number.

Space Considerations and Depth of Field

When using the Samyang/Rokinon 85mm f/1.4, due to its longer focal length, you may need more space to achieve the desired effect, particularly if you are shooting portraits. However, if you are comfortable with the shallow depth of field and prefer the creamy bokeh it provides, the trade-off is worth it for an enhanced visual impact. Conversely, the 50mm f/1.8G, with a shorter focal length, can be easier to use in tighter spaces and still provide excellent results.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Picking between the Nikon 50mm f/1.8G and the Samyang/Rokinon 85mm f/1.4 depends on your specific needs, the type of photography you are pursuing, and the camera you are using. Both lenses have their unique strengths and limitations. The 85mm f/1.4 excels in portrait photography for its exceptional bokeh and shallow depth of field, while the 50mm f/1.8G is a versatile tool for a variety of subjects, including landscapes, when using it with an APS-C sensor camera.

Ultimately, the choice should be guided by your personal style and the type of photography you enjoy most. Both lenses have proven their worth in the photography community, and with practice, you will find the right fit for your projects.

Keywords: Nikon 50mm f/1.8G, Samyang/Rokinon 85mm f/1.4, bokeh, lens choice for photography