Is a 50mm Lens the Best for Portraits?
Photography enthusiasts often debate the ideal lens for capturing captivating portraits. One lens that has gained significant popularity in the past decades is the 50mm prime lens. In this article, we will explore whether a 50mm lens truly is the best choice for portrait photography, taking into consideration the preferences of various photographers and the characteristics of different camera types.
Understanding the 50mm Lens
The 50mm lens is commonly referred to as the "nifty fifty" due to its relatively low cost and excellent image quality. The human eye perceives depth and perspective similarly to how a 50mm lens does, which is why it is often seen as the ideal lens for portraits. The field of view of a 50mm lens on a full-frame camera is similar to that of the human eye, making it feel natural and comfortable for both the photographer and the subject.
The 50mm Lens on Full-Frame Cameras
For photographers using full-frame cameras, the 50mm lens is indeed the best choice for portraits. It offers a natural perspective and a shallow depth of field, producing separation between the subject and the background. Additionally, the larger sensor size of full-frame cameras enhances the bokeh effect, which is crucial for portrait photography. As one photographer noted:
Yes. Often the human eyes see the subject 24mm with one eye and the same with the other eye can see 24mm to the subject simultaneously that is 48mm. Hence in lens it is rounded to 50mm which defines the best measures for the seeing and so 50 mm lens is referred to the best lens for a portrait.
The 50mm Lens on Crop Sensor Cameras
Even for photographers using crop sensor cameras, a 50mm lens remains a solid choice. The field of view is similar to an 80mm to 85mm lens on a full-frame camera, making it an excellent all-purpose lens for portraits. Moreover, the shallower depth of field provided by the 50mm lens can produce stunning bokeh, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the final image. However, the smaller sensor size can sometimes limit the extent of the bokeh effect.
Alternatives to the 50mm Lens
While the 50mm lens is highly regarded for portrait photography, there are other options that can offer different perspectives. For instance, an 85mm prime lens is favored by many for professional portraits due to its ability to produce shallow depth of field. This lens is particularly effective in capturing flattering images of faces and bodies, as it minimizes the "big nose" effect that can occur with wider lenses.
I prefer an 85mm prime lens on my Nikon full-frame camera when taking portraits because the aperture opens up to 1.8 which gives amazing bokeh. That being said when taking a portrait I almost never open all the way up because I want the subject’s eyes and the rest of her/his face in focus. An aperture such as 1.8 means a very narrow depth of field so you really have to watch your focus.
The Versatility of the 50mm Lens
The 50mm lens is not only useful for portraits but can also serve other photographic purposes well. Its compact size makes it ideal for travel and landscape photography, as it can fit into travel gear without adding a significant bulk. Additionally, the 50mm lens can be used creatively to include more or less background, depending on the desired effect. Whether you want a head and shoulders shot or a wider image that includes the environment, the 50mm lens offers flexibility.
Yes, 50mm is my favorite lens for portraits. Even especially on a crop sensor it is close to the classic 85mm length used for portraits. Note there is no single portrait lens, it is how you use it. Even wide angle can be used for portraits.
Ultimately, whether a 50mm lens is the best choice for a particular photographer depends on personal preference and the specific needs of the project. For many, it remains a reliable and versatile tool for creating captivating portraits. As one photographer stated:
Sure, while it’s common to use a somewhat longer lens, the most common choices probably being in the 85–100mm range as that tends to flatter the subject. Plenty of portraiture has been done with 50s and even shorter lenses.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a 50mm lens is indeed one of the best choices for portrait photography, whether shooting on a full-frame or crop sensor camera. Its natural perspective, shallow depth of field, and versatility make it a popular and practical choice for capturing beautiful and impressive portraits. However, other lenses like the 85mm lens can also be excellent for achieving specific creative effects. The best lens is the one that suits the photographer's workflow and the desired outcome.