When it comes to videography, the choice of lens can make a significant difference in the outcome of your project. Among the vast array of available lenses, the 85mm lens often garners attention for its unique capabilities. But the question arises: Is an 85mm lens good for video? This article will delve deep into the characteristics of the 85mm lens, its advantages and disadvantages for video, and scenarios where it truly shines.
Understanding the 85mm Lens: A Brief Overview
Before we dive into its application in videography, it’s essential to understand what an 85mm lens offers. Typically classified as a short telephoto lens, the 85mm lens is known for its flattering perspective and beautiful bokeh. Originally designed for portrait photography, its attributes have translated well into video, making it a popular choice among filmmakers.
Key Characteristics of the 85mm Lens
The 85mm lens comes with several distinctive features that cater to videographers:
- Magnification and Compression: The 85mm focal length provides a compression effect that makes subjects appear closer and more intimate without distortion.
- Wide Aperture: Many 85mm lenses offer wide maximum apertures (like f/1.4 or f/1.8), allowing for stunning background blur and exceptional low-light performance.
Advantages of Using an 85mm Lens for Video
Beautiful Bokeh
One of the most standout features of the 85mm lens is its ability to produce a creamy, beautiful bokeh. This characteristic well-suited for portraits translates effectively into video, providing a cinematic quality that emphasizes the subject while softly blurring the background.Ideal for Portraits and Close-ups
As the 85mm lens is often favored for portrait photography, it has advantages for video too. It allows you to capture intimate close-ups without invading your subject’s personal space, making it excellent for interviews or character studies.Natural Perspective
The 85mm focal length offers a perspective that feels natural to the human eye. This is particularly beneficial in narrative filmmaking, where you want your viewers to feel grounded in a scene.Low-Light Performance
With wide apertures, the 85mm lens excels in low-light conditions. This is an essential factor in various filmmaking scenarios—be it an ambient-lit scene or a nighttime shoot.
Potential Drawbacks of Using an 85mm Lens for Video
While the 85mm lens holds many advantages, it’s essential to consider its drawbacks in specific videography contexts:
Limited Field of View
The 85mm lens has a narrower field of view, which may not be ideal for wide shots or dynamic environments. In scenarios where you need to capture broader scenes, such as landscapes or group dynamics, this lens can feel restrictive.Requires Space for Movement
Because of its focal length, filmmakers may find they need to work in larger spaces. If you’re in an environment where movement is limited, such as small rooms or crowded sets, an 85mm lens might prove challenging.
When to Choose an 85mm Lens for Your Video Projects
There are specific situations in which the 85mm lens truly shines:
Interviews and Portraits
For interviews, the 85mm lens allows you to maintain a respectful distance while capturing expressive facial details. The bokeh helps to focus viewer attention on the subject, minimizing distractions from the background.
Event Coverage
At events like weddings or performances, the 85mm lens is perfect for capturing candid moments without drawing attention. Its compression allows for elegant compositions in crowded settings.
Music Videos and Creative Projects
When creating music videos or artistic projects, the 85mm lens can provide captivating visuals and a dreamy quality. The combination of its low-light performance and dynamic range makes it ideal for stylized footage.
Technical Considerations: The 85mm Lens in Detail
Let’s delve deeper into the technical aspects of using an 85mm lens for videography. Understanding these elements will help you make the most of your lens capabilities.
Choosing the Right 85mm Lens
When selecting an 85mm lens for video, consider the following aspects:
Aperture:
Choose a lens with a wide maximum aperture (f/1.2, f/1.4, or f/1.8). This allows for better low-light performance and more creative depth of field effects.Lens Stabilization:
Look for lenses with optical stabilization if you plan to shoot handheld. This feature helps reduce shake and results in smoother footage.Build Quality:
Consider a lens with robust build quality, especially if you are shooting in challenging environments. Weather-sealed lenses can provide additional protection.
Best Practices for Shooting with an 85mm Lens
To maximize the effectiveness of your 85mm lens in video, consider the following best practices:
Use a Tripod or Gimbal:
To counteract any potential camera shake, utilizing a tripod or gimbal can help achieve smoother footage.Plan Your Shots:
Given its narrow field of view, pre-planning your shots is vital. Make sure you have enough space to frame your subjects effectively.Experiment with Distance:
Different distances can provide varied looks. With an 85mm lens, small adjustments in distance can lead to dramatically different compositions, so explore this during your shoots.
Comparative Analysis: 85mm vs. Other Focal Lengths
As filmmakers consider various lenses, it’s beneficial to understand how the 85mm compares to other focal lengths. Here’s a concise table to highlight these differences:
| Focal Length | Field of View | Ideal Use Cases |
|---|---|---|
| 35mm | Wide moderate | Documentary, events, street photography |
| 50mm | Moderate | Basic portraits, everyday videography |
| 85mm | Narrow | Portraits, interviews, product videography |
This comparative analysis demonstrates that while the 85mm lens is excellent for specific contexts, other focal lengths may be more suitable for broader coverage or versatility in certain videography scenarios.
Conclusion: Is an 85mm Lens Right for You?
In conclusion, the answer to whether an 85mm lens is good for video depends substantially on your specific needs and context. If you’re a filmmaker focused on capturing stunning portraits, interviews, or intimate scenes, the 85mm lens may be the perfect asset for your arsenal.
However, limitations in terms of distance and field of view should not be overlooked. Carefully weigh your project requirements and consider the shooting environments you typically encounter. The essence of great videography lies in effectively using the tools available to you, and the 85mm lens can be a remarkable tool in the right hands.
Ultimately, understanding the strengths and weaknesses of this lens and aligning them with your creative vision can lead to breathtaking cinematic results. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an enthusiastic beginner, the 85mm lens has potential waiting to be unlocked in your video projects.
1. What are the advantages of using an 85mm lens for video production?
The 85mm lens is favored by many videographers for its ability to create a beautiful, shallow depth of field. This allows you to isolate your subject from the background, giving your footage a professional and cinematic feel. The compression offered by an 85mm lens also enhances the facial features in portraits, making it an excellent choice for interviews or character-driven narratives.
Additionally, the lens typically has a wide aperture, often ranging from f/1.2 to f/2.8, which is beneficial for low-light scenarios. This versatility enables filmmakers to shoot in dimmer environments without sacrificing image quality. The bokeh effect produced by an 85mm lens also creates an aesthetically pleasing background, adding visual interest to your shots.
2. Are there any drawbacks to using an 85mm lens for video?
One of the main drawbacks of using an 85mm lens is the limited field of view it provides, which can be challenging in confined spaces. If you’re shooting in a smaller area, you may find it difficult to frame your subject adequately without stepping back, which can sometimes be impractical. This limitation could lead to missed opportunities or awkward compositions during filming.
Moreover, the longer focal length may introduce challenges in maintaining focus, especially with moving subjects. Rapid pans or zooms can be harder to execute smoothly without a proper stabilization system. Therefore, while an 85mm lens has many benefits, understanding its limitations is crucial to ensure it aligns with the specific needs of your video project.
3. Is an 85mm lens suitable for different types of video content?
Yes, the 85mm lens is quite versatile and can be used for various types of video content, particularly those focusing on subjects such as interviews, narratives, or portraits. Its ability to produce a beautifully rendered background makes it an ideal choice for storytelling where character emotions and expressions are central. This lens is particularly effective in settings where you want to emphasize the subject while keeping distractions out of focus.
However, for broader scenes or events, you may want to complement the 85mm lens with a wider lens to capture more context and action. It is essential to consider the nature of your content and the specific shots you aim to achieve. For instance, an 85mm lens works wonderfully for close-up shots but might not suffice for wide-angle landscapes or group scenes.
4. Do you need a stabilizer when using an 85mm lens for video?
Using an 85mm lens often benefits from stabilization techniques, especially when shooting handheld. The longer focal length amplifies any camera shake, making it more apparent in your footage. Therefore, employing a stabilizer, such as a gimbal or tripod, can significantly enhance the quality of your shots by providing smoother movement and a polished look.
Even with in-body or lens stabilization, opting for additional stabilization gear can result in more professional outcomes, especially during tracking shots or dynamic movements. If you’re planning to shoot with an 85mm lens, considering some form of stabilization is advisable to maintain the clarity and sharpness of your images.
5. What camera settings work best with an 85mm lens for video?
When using an 85mm lens for video, it’s essential to pay attention to several key camera settings for optimal results. Start with selecting a suitable aperture; utilizing a wide aperture helps achieve that coveted shallow depth of field, which can be particularly striking for interviews or dramatic scenes. However, be mindful to find a balance, as too shallow a depth may make it challenging to keep your subject in focus.
Shutter speed is another important consideration. A general rule of thumb is to set your shutter speed at double your frame rate—so for 24fps, use a shutter speed of 1/50. This setting will produce a natural motion blur that mimics how our eyes perceive movement, enhancing the overall cinematic quality of your video. Additionally, consider ISO settings based on your shooting environment to maintain proper exposure without introducing excessive noise.
6. Can an 85mm lens be used for live events or fast-paced shoots?
While an 85mm lens can certainly be used for live events, it may not always be the most practical choice due to its longer focal length. Capturing action in real-time can require quick repositioning, which may be cumbersome if you’re restricted by space. In settings like weddings or concerts where moments unfold quickly, having a wider lens as a primary option could help capture the full scope of the event without the need for constant adjustments.
That being said, the 85mm can still be a fantastic option for close-up shots during live events. For example, focusing on the couple during a wedding ceremony or capturing expressions in a crowded venue can result in stunning footage. Ultimately, it is beneficial to have a mix of lenses on hand to adapt to the various demands of live shooting scenarios.
7. What are the best alternatives to an 85mm lens for video?
If you’re considering alternatives to the 85mm lens for video, a 50mm or a 135mm lens could be worth exploring. The 50mm lens offers a more versatile focal length with similar depth of field advantages, making it an excellent all-around option for various shooting situations. It also tends to be lighter and more compact, making it easier to handle during long shooting sessions.
On the other hand, a 135mm lens provides even more compression and the ability to maintain distance from your subject while achieving beautiful background separation. This is particularly useful for interviews or documentary-style shoots where subtlety is desired. Ultimately, the best alternative will depend on your specific needs, style, and the types of stories you want to tell through your videos.