You might have heard 85mm labeled as a “portrait lens” and dismissed it as too specialized or difficult to use. But if you’re willing to invest some time in it, the 85mm lens offers more versatility than it gets credit for. It’s not as flexible as wider lenses, but the results it delivers, especially with portraits, are distinctive.
Coming to you from Martin Castein, this thoughtful video tackles why the 85mm focal length deserves more attention. Castein explains that while it may seem less versatile than a 35mm or 50mm, this lens has its strengths. The magic of the 85mm comes from its ability to compress your subject and background in a way that gives your photos a polished, almost magazine-like look. It’s more than just a tool for tight headshots with blurry backgrounds. By incorporating small elements of the background into your composition, you can use the 85mm to create images that tell a story, rather than just isolating your subject.
One of the key points Castein highlights is the way people misuse this lens. Many photographers stand in the same spot they would with a 50mm lens, slap on the 85mm, and end up with a photo that’s too tightly cropped. The trick, according to Castein, is stepping back and giving yourself more room. This allows the lens to work its magic, compressing the background and subject in a way that feels cinematic and professional. It’s this “polished” look that makes the 85mm stand out from other lenses.
Castein also emphasizes the importance of not relying solely on wide apertures like f/1.4 or f/1.2, which many associate with this lens. While these wider apertures can create stunning shallow depth of field effects, Castein argues that the 85mm excels even at more modest apertures. The beauty of this lens lies in its compression and the flattering way it captures subjects from a distance. Whether you're shooting weddings or portraits, this compression keeps features like foreheads and noses in proportion.
This focal length isn't just about blurry backgrounds, though. It's about carefully selecting and incorporating the background to complement your subject. The 85mm gives you the ability to include just enough of the background to add context, without overwhelming the viewer with unnecessary details. It’s all about balance, and that’s where the 85mm shines. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Castein.
