50mm vs 85mm

[RachelleFav]

How would results differ for each of these two lenses? Would both be suited for outdoor photography as well?

[Trevor Ash]

The angle of view between the two wouldn't be that much different. The 50mm, because it's a bit wider, would probably be better suited for most landscape shots than the 85. The 85mm would do better for natural looking portraits.

[RachelleFav]

I'm definitely looking for more of a portrait type lens. Is the lens good for general use as well? Thanks for the information.

[another view]

You're using a D70, right? What a memory... or not... I'll find out...

If that's the case, then the effective focal length of a 50 is really 75 and an 85 is really about a 130. The 85-105 range is classic for portraits, and a 50 would be closest to that. When you get to 130, that's still a very usable range but more for head and shoulders, or if you have more distance between yourself and the subject. A fast 85 prime (on a DSLR) is great at a concert when you can get pretty close to the stage. I'd vote for a 50 as long as you're using it on the DSLR. If it's film it's still a good choice - Henri Cartier-Bresson probably shot 97% of the time with a 50.