Which is better for wedding portraits, 50mm or 85mm?

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 Both the 50mm and 85mm lenses are excellent for wedding portraits, but they each have different advantages depending on the kind of shots you're looking to capture.

- **50mm lens**: It's more versatile and gives you a natural perspective, similar to what the human eye sees. It’s ideal for full-body or environmental portraits, allowing you to capture the couple in their surroundings. It’s also great in tighter spaces or when you need to move around quickly during the ceremony or reception. Additionally, it's typically faster and more affordable compared to the 85mm.

- **85mm lens**: This is the classic portrait lens, offering a flattering perspective for close-up shots, especially for head and shoulder portraits. The longer focal length provides beautiful compression, helping to blur the background (creating a more pronounced bokeh effect), which is great for focusing attention on the subject. It’s perfect for more intimate, romantic shots but may require more space to move around, especially in a crowded venue.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your shooting style, the type of portraits you’re aiming for, and your environment. If you want versatility and ease, go for the 50mm. If you prefer a more "classic" portrait look with creamy backgrounds, the 85mm is fantastic. Many wedding photographers even carry both for a range of options.