Im getting so annoyed trying to pick a lens for my Rebel T7. Ive been shooting my sister's engagement photos but the kit lens just looks so flat and boring. I have like 200 bucks max to spend and need something by next weekend for a graduation shoot. Im stuck between the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM and the Yongnuo 50mm f/1.8. Ive heard the Canon one is sharper but the price difference is tempting since im broke right now. Is the extra money for the Canon actually worth it for just some casual portraits or should I just save the cash? Also considered a used 85mm but that seems out of reach...
Like someone mentioned, dont gamble on the cheap lens right before a shoot. You need reliability. If you want to keep costs down, check out MPB or KEH for used gear. They usually have the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM in great condition for way less than retail.
- Check local listings for used gear
- Look into manual focus lenses like Rokinon
- Practice your lighting setups instead Honestly, better gear wont fix bad light, so watch some YouTube portrait tutorials tonight.
> Is the extra money for the Canon actually worth it for just some casual portraits or should I just save the cash? Honestly, save yourself the headache and get the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM. I used the knockoff years ago and the focus hunting was a nightmare during outdoor shoots. The Canon version works so much better with the T7 sensor and the sharpness is honestly night and day. If you really are tight on cash, check out a used Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 II which is the older version. It has a slightly louder motor but the glass quality is perfectly fine for portraits. You are basically paying for the reliability of the AF system, which you will really appreciate when you are on a tight schedule next week.
Honestly just grab the Canon version. I know the price gap is annoying when youre on a budget, but Ive seen too many people regret getting the knockoff for portraits. The autofocus on the name-brand lens is way more reliable and you dont want to be fighting gear during a shoot next weekend. Its totally worth the extra bit of cash for the peace of mind imo.