yo, congrats on picking up the Z6II! i totally feel u on the zoom lens thing... zooms are convenient but they often lack that soul u get from a fast prime. so basically, the main thing you gotta understand here is lens compression and how it affects facial features. the 85mm focal length is the industry standard for a reason cuz it slightly flattens the face in a super flattering way, whereas a 50mm can actually distort features if youre too close. i mean, i tried to make the Nikon NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.8 S work for my main outdoor setup cuz it's a steal at around $600, but honestly? i was kinda disappointed with the results for portraits. the bokeh is okay, but it just didnt give me that CREAMY separation i wanted for high-end professional shots. plus, having to get so close to the model to get a tight shot can be awkward and ruins the vibe sometimes. if youre doing outdoor sessions, you seriously need the Nikon NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S. it retails for about $800 and is legit the perfect balance of weight and performance. unfortunately, i had issues with some heavier glass like the f/1.2 version being way too bulky for long shoots, but this f/1.8 version is light enough that youre not gonna be sore the next day. it delivers that highkey sharp look while keeping the background totally melted. it's the absolute must-have for the Z mount imo. anyway, hope that helps! gl

Before I give advice, quick question - are you shooting tight headshots or full-body outdoor stuff? I've been super happy with my Nikon NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S since it's light and the bokeh is seriouslyyy creamy for the price. Tbh the Nikon NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.8 S is more versatile but might lack that pop ur after. Are you often in tight spaces or do you have room to back up?

Ok so jumping in here as someone who watches every penny... I totally get the struggle between these two. I started with the Nikon NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.8 S because it was cheaper and honestly, its probably the best value lens Nikon has ever made for the Z system. But for what ur asking? You gotta look at the long-term value for ur specific style. Here is how I see the breakdown for a budget-conscious pro:

• Nikon NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S: This is the portrait king. Tbh, the background blur you get is way more 'expensive' looking than the 50mm. It costs a bit more (usually around $800 compared to $600 for the 50), but you wont feel the need to upgrade to a heavy f/1.2 lens nearly as fast because the sharpness is already world-class.
• Nikon NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.8 S: Super versatile. If you only had ONE lens for everything, this is it. But for outdoor portraits, it can feel a bit... plain? It doesnt give that nice compression that makes facial features look flattering. I would suggest being careful with the 50mm if ur main goal is that 'signature' look. I spent money on the 50 first, then ended up buying the 85 anyway six months later cuz the 50 just didnt give me that bokeh pop I wanted for outdoor sessions. Basically, you might save $200 now but spend $800 more later. Both are super light tho, so ur neck will thank you either way during those long shoots. If ur doing outdoors, just grab the 85mm and dont look back... it literally punches way above its weight class. Good luck!!