Why an 85mm Lens is Perfect for Portraits: Flattering Perspectives and Aesthetic Appeal

When it comes to portrait photography, many photographers turn to the 85mm lens, a focal length that offers a range of advantages for achieving pleasing and professional-looking images. In this article, we will explore the reasons why 85mm lenses are highly regarded in portrait photography, from their flattering perspective to their versatility and excellent performance in various lighting conditions.

Flattering Perspective

The 85mm focal length is often considered the sweet spot for portrait photography due to its flattering perspective. Unlike wide-angle lenses, which can distort facial features, or longer telephoto lenses, which flatten the face, the 85mm provides a natural, balanced view that enhances facial features without exaggeration. This focal length helps to subtly compress facial features, making the subject's face appear more proportional and aesthetically pleasing. This is why it is a favorite among portrait photographers, as it allows them to capture the essence of their subjects without altering their natural appearance.

Shallow Depth of Field

One of the standout features of an 85mm lens is its ability to achieve a shallow depth of field. This effect is crucial for creating a beautiful bokeh (the out-of-focus portions of the image) and isolating the subject from the background. The shallow depth of field helps to blur the background, emphasizing the subject and making them stand out more sharply against a softly blurred background. This technique not only enhances the visual appeal of the portrait but also makes the subject the focal point of the image.

Comfortable Working Distance

Another significant advantage of the 85mm lens is the comfortable working distance it provides. It is neither too close, which can make the subject feel confined, nor too far, which can result in a loss of naturalness in expressions and poses. This distance allows the photographer to communicate effectively with the subject, leading to more relaxed and natural interactions. Photographers can also move freely around the subject without losing the desired perspective, making it easier to capture candid and spontaneous moments.

Versatility

While often associated with portrait photography, the 85mm lens is also highly versatile. It can be used for a variety of photography styles, including events, weddings, and even some landscape photography. This versatility makes it an excellent addition to a photographer's kit, as it can handle different scenarios and subject matters. In event photography, for example, the 85mm lens can capture intimate moments without feeling intrusive, while still maintaining a professional and flattering perspective. In wedding photography, its shallow depth of field can help to create beautiful and memorable images that capture the essence of the event.

Low Light Performance

Many 85mm lenses come equipped with wide maximum apertures, such as f/1.8, f/1.4, or even f/1.2. These wide apertures allow for exceptional low-light performance, enabling photographers to achieve sharp and well-exposed images even in challenging lighting conditions. The ability to create a shallow depth of field in low light also makes it easier to isolate the subject from a busy background, leading to more visually appealing portraits. This feature is particularly valuable for photographers who work in environments with limited lighting, such as indoors or during golden hour.

Optimal Perspective

The optimal perspective for portrait photography, as dictated by the 35mm film or digital ‘full frame’, is achieved at a distance of about six feet. At this distance, an 85mm lens captures the head and shoulders in a flattering and attractive way, striking the best balance between composition and resolving the camera's sensor. This perspective is also achievable with a wide-angle lens when the center of the lens is placed on the subject's eyes, but the result is a need for extensive cropping and a loss of resolution. Conversely, a long lens, such as a 500mm, captures only the eyes, but at such a distance, it may be challenging to maintain accurate focus. An 85mm lens, on the other hand, provides a natural perspective that is both flattering and efficient.

Conclusion

In summary, the 85mm lens is a valuable tool for portrait photography due to its flattering perspective, shallow depth of field, comfortable working distance, versatility, and excellent low-light performance. Whether you are a professional photographer or a hobbyist, the 85mm lens can help you capture portraits that are both aesthetically pleasing and technically sound. Its ability to strike the perfect balance between natural and flattering perspectives makes it a favorite among photographers who prioritize quality and professionalism in their work.