Unlocking the Secrets of the 85mm Lens: A Comprehensive Guide

When it comes to photography, the type of lens used can greatly impact the final result. One of the most popular and versatile lenses among photographers is the 85mm lens. But what does 85mm lens mean, and how can it be used to capture stunning images? In this article, we will delve into the world of 85mm lenses, exploring their characteristics, uses, and benefits.

Table of Contents

Understanding the Focal Length of an 85mm Lens

The focal length of a lens is the distance between the camera’s image sensor and the optical center of the lens. In the case of an 85mm lens, the focal length is 85 millimeters. This measurement is crucial in determining the angle of view, magnification, and depth of field of the lens.

Angle of View and Field of View

The angle of view of an 85mm lens is approximately 28.5 degrees, which is considered a medium to narrow angle. This means that the lens will capture a relatively small portion of the scene, making it ideal for portraits, close-ups, and compressing perspectives.

The field of view, on the other hand, refers to the area that the lens can capture. An 85mm lens has a field of view of around 24.5 degrees horizontally and 16.2 degrees vertically. This relatively narrow field of view allows for a more focused composition, drawing the viewer’s attention to the subject.

Comparison with Other Focal Lengths

To put the 85mm lens into perspective, let’s compare it with other common focal lengths:

As you can see, the 85mm lens falls between the 50mm and 135mm lenses in terms of angle of view and field of view. This makes it an excellent choice for capturing portraits, close-ups, and compressing perspectives.

Characteristics of an 85mm Lens

An 85mm lens is known for its unique characteristics, which make it a favorite among photographers. Some of the key characteristics of an 85mm lens include:

Shallow Depth of Field: The 85mm lens has a relatively narrow depth of field, which means that the subject will be in sharp focus, while the background will be blurred. This is ideal for portraits, as it helps to separate the subject from the background.
Compression: The 85mm lens compresses perspectives, making objects appear closer together than they actually are. This can be used to create a sense of intimacy or to emphasize the subject’s features.
Flattering Perspective: The 85mm lens has a flattering perspective, which means that it will not distort the subject’s features. This makes it an excellent choice for portraits, as it will capture the subject’s likeness accurately.
Low Distortion: The 85mm lens has low distortion, which means that it will not introduce any unwanted curvature or bending of lines. This makes it an excellent choice for capturing architecture, landscapes, and still-life images.

Types of 85mm Lenses

There are several types of 85mm lenses available, each with its own unique characteristics and features. Some of the most common types of 85mm lenses include:

Standard 85mm Lens: This is the most common type of 85mm lens, which is designed for general-purpose photography. It is usually a prime lens, which means that it has a fixed focal length.
Macro 85mm Lens: This type of lens is designed for extreme close-up photography, allowing for a 1:1 or even 2:1 magnification ratio.
Tilt-Shift 85mm Lens: This type of lens allows for the plane of focus to be tilted and shifted, allowing for precise control over the depth of field.
Zoom 85mm Lens: This type of lens has a variable focal length, allowing for a range of focal lengths to be captured.

Choosing the Right 85mm Lens

When choosing an 85mm lens, there are several factors to consider. Some of the key factors to consider include:

Aperture: A wider aperture (such as f/1.4 or f/2.8) will allow for a shallower depth of field, while a narrower aperture (such as f/4 or f/5.6) will allow for a deeper depth of field.
Image Stabilization: Image stabilization can help to reduce camera shake and blur, especially in low-light conditions.
Lens Quality: Look for a lens with high-quality glass and a robust build, as this will ensure that the lens will last for many years.
Price: 85mm lenses can range in price from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the brand, quality, and features.

Using an 85mm Lens for Photography

An 85mm lens is a versatile lens that can be used for a wide range of photography applications. Some of the most common uses for an 85mm lens include:

Portraits: The 85mm lens is ideal for capturing portraits, as it provides a flattering perspective and a shallow depth of field.
Close-ups: The 85mm lens is excellent for capturing close-up images, as it allows for a high level of magnification and a shallow depth of field.
Compressing Perspectives: The 85mm lens can be used to compress perspectives, making objects appear closer together than they actually are.
Still-Life Photography: The 85mm lens is ideal for capturing still-life images, as it provides a high level of detail and a shallow depth of field.

Tips for Using an 85mm Lens

Here are some tips for using an 85mm lens:

Use a Wide Aperture: A wide aperture (such as f/1.4 or f/2.8) will allow for a shallower depth of field, which can help to separate the subject from the background.
Pay Attention to Lighting: The 85mm lens can be sensitive to lighting, so make sure to pay attention to the lighting conditions and adjust accordingly.
Experiment with Composition: The 85mm lens allows for a high level of creativity, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different compositions and angles.
Use a Tripod: A tripod can help to reduce camera shake and blur, especially in low-light conditions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when using an 85mm lens:

Not Paying Attention to Depth of Field: The 85mm lens has a shallow depth of field, so make sure to pay attention to the depth of field and adjust accordingly.
Not Using a Wide Enough Aperture: A wide aperture (such as f/1.4 or f/2.8) will allow for a shallower depth of field, which can help to separate the subject from the background.
Not Experimenting with Composition: The 85mm lens allows for a high level of creativity, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different compositions and angles.

In conclusion, the 85mm lens is a versatile and powerful tool that can be used for a wide range of photography applications. By understanding the characteristics and uses of an 85mm lens, photographers can unlock its full potential and capture stunning images. Whether you’re a professional photographer or just starting out, the 85mm lens is definitely worth considering.

What is an 85mm lens and how is it used in photography?

An 85mm lens is a type of short telephoto lens that is commonly used in portrait photography. It is considered a classic focal length for capturing high-quality portraits with a pleasing perspective and minimal distortion. The 85mm lens is also versatile and can be used for other types of photography, such as street, documentary, and fine-art photography.

The 85mm lens is often preferred by photographers because it provides a comfortable working distance between the camera and the subject. This allows for a more natural and relaxed interaction between the photographer and the subject, resulting in more authentic and engaging portraits. Additionally, the 85mm lens is often used to create a sense of intimacy and closeness with the subject, while also providing enough distance to avoid distortion and unflattering perspectives.

What are the key characteristics of an 85mm lens?

An 85mm lens is characterized by its moderate telephoto focal length, which provides a slightly compressed perspective and a pleasing bokeh (out-of-focus area). The lens is also known for its high optical quality, with many 85mm lenses featuring advanced optical designs and high-quality glass elements. Additionally, 85mm lenses often have a wide aperture, typically ranging from f/1.4 to f/2.8, which allows for a shallow depth of field and a beautiful bokeh.

The key characteristics of an 85mm lens make it an ideal choice for portrait photography. The moderate telephoto focal length provides a flattering perspective, while the high optical quality ensures that the images are sharp and detailed. The wide aperture also allows for creative control over the depth of field, enabling photographers to isolate their subjects and create a sense of depth and dimensionality in their images.

How does the 85mm lens compare to other focal lengths?

The 85mm lens is often compared to other focal lengths, such as the 50mm and 135mm lenses. While the 50mm lens is a more general-purpose lens, the 85mm lens is specifically designed for portrait photography. The 135mm lens, on the other hand, is a longer telephoto lens that provides a more compressed perspective and a greater working distance.

In comparison to other focal lengths, the 85mm lens offers a unique combination of perspective, optical quality, and versatility. While it may not be as wide as a 50mm lens or as long as a 135mm lens, the 85mm lens provides a sweet spot for portrait photography, offering a flattering perspective and a high level of optical quality. Additionally, the 85mm lens is often more portable and easier to handle than longer telephoto lenses, making it a popular choice for photographers who need to work in a variety of environments.

What are the advantages of using an 85mm lens for portrait photography?

One of the main advantages of using an 85mm lens for portrait photography is its ability to provide a flattering perspective. The moderate telephoto focal length compresses the features of the face, reducing the appearance of a large nose or other facial imperfections. Additionally, the 85mm lens provides a high level of optical quality, ensuring that the images are sharp and detailed.

Another advantage of using an 85mm lens for portrait photography is its ability to create a sense of intimacy and closeness with the subject. The lens provides a comfortable working distance between the camera and the subject, allowing for a more natural and relaxed interaction. This results in more authentic and engaging portraits, as the subject is able to relax and be themselves in front of the camera.

Can I use an 85mm lens for other types of photography?

While the 85mm lens is commonly used for portrait photography, it can also be used for other types of photography, such as street, documentary, and fine-art photography. The lens’s moderate telephoto focal length and high optical quality make it a versatile tool that can be used in a variety of situations.

In addition to portrait photography, the 85mm lens can be used to capture high-quality images of landscapes, cityscapes, and still-life compositions. The lens’s wide aperture also makes it ideal for creating a sense of depth and dimensionality in images, by isolating the subject and blurring the background.

How do I choose the right 85mm lens for my camera?

When choosing an 85mm lens for your camera, there are several factors to consider. First, consider the type of camera you are using, as different cameras may have different lens mounts and compatibility requirements. Next, consider the aperture range and optical quality of the lens, as these will affect the overall image quality and versatility of the lens.

Additionally, consider the size, weight, and build quality of the lens, as these will affect its portability and durability. Finally, consider the price and value of the lens, as different lenses may offer different levels of quality and performance at different price points. By considering these factors, you can choose the right 85mm lens for your camera and photography needs.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when using an 85mm lens?

One common mistake to avoid when using an 85mm lens is not paying attention to the background. The lens’s wide aperture and moderate telephoto focal length can make it easy to blur the background, but this can also lead to distracting elements in the image. To avoid this, pay attention to the background and use a shallow depth of field to isolate the subject.

Another common mistake to avoid is not using the lens’s optical quality to its full potential. The 85mm lens is capable of producing high-quality images with excellent sharpness and detail, but this requires careful attention to focus, exposure, and composition. By paying attention to these factors and using the lens’s optical quality to its full potential, you can create high-quality images that showcase the lens’s capabilities.