Which portrait lens should i buy?

[just bry]

i'm torn between these two lenses 35mm f1.8g and 50mm f1.4d?

which one do you think is better? photography newbie here =)

i'm using a dx camera nikon d5000

[macdrive007]

they say the 50mm f1.4d is sharper and has better IQ, while the 35mm is cheaper & built specifically as a DX lens.

but then again, try peeking through your current 18-55mm lens in 35mm & 50mm focal lengths to see the limitations of how wide/narrow you can shoot using the two.

[NeilJohn]

you may want to try playing with a 50mm F/1.8... It wont break the bank and it is really good especially if you keep it at f/2.8 - 4.0.


Cheers.

[zoo101]

105 f/2.8 VR

[LeoCastillo]

The 35mm strictly speaking isn't a portrait lens.
The 50mm in DX cameras (like the one you have) is bordering on the traditional definition of a portrait lens.

Maybe you meant prime (not portrait)?

I agree, learn to use your existing gear first, learn how to maximize it before considering buying extra gear.

Leo

[just bry]

i mean prime lens that's good for portraits. lol

i want to have a portrait shot that gives more blurry background. and those lenses have larger aperture compared to the kit lens

[edricdude]

i suggest you get the 50mm 1.4 or 1.8

[just bry]

you may want to try playing with a 50mm F/1.8... It wont break the bank and it is really good especially if you keep it at f/2.8 - 4.0.


Cheers.

and @ edricdude

is there a big difference between the 50mm 1.8 to 1.4? (except the price lol)

[NeilJohn]

if you want good bokeh, get a good, fast prime that is really a "portrait" lens. 105mm or 85mm. But a 50mm f/1.8 would do...

There are always work arounds to get that bokeh you are after with your current kit but it wouldnt be as smooth as a fast prime.

I haven't gotten my hands on a 1.4 so I wouldn't have first hand experience.

Leo is the authority on this...

[runner10]

For portraits, the creamier the bokeh the better. Therefore, get the prime lens with the biggest aperature opening (f/1.2, 1.4, 1.8). I use a Canon and I use EF 50/1.4 & EF 85/1.8 for portraits. Both are very nice but the 85/1.8 has creamier bokeh.