What is actually the best budget portrait lens for the Canon Rebel T7 right now? Im seriously getting frustrated because everything I read online is super conflicting. Everyone keeps pointing me toward the 50mm f/1.8 STM, but then I see people complaining that its too tight on a crop sensor body and I just dont know who to trust. I have about 200 bucks to spend before my sisters wedding in three weeks here in Seattle and I really need something that can get those nice blurry backgrounds without breaking the bank. Is the 50mm really the go-to or am I gonna regret not saving for something wider? Im so lost...
Honestly, I had issues with the focus motor on the 50mm, it was way louder than expected at the reception. If you want something sharper, look at the Sigma 30mm f/1.4 DC HSM Art. It is a bit pricier, but it feels more premium. If you stick with the 50mm, just be careful with your focus tracking. Weddings are chaotic and you dont want to miss shots because of gear noise...
Honestly, ignore the noise about it being too tight. The Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM is basically a rite of passage for every T7 owner and for good reason. It is cheap, tiny, and that f/1.8 aperture is exactly what you need for those creamy blurry backgrounds. I used this setup for years and was always super satisfied with the results. Since you are shooting a wedding in Seattle, here is why you should just pull the trigger on it:
- It is incredibly sharp for the price. Like, way better than the kit lens you probably have.
- Being on a crop sensor makes it an 80mm equivalent, which is actually a classic portrait length. It is super flattering for faces.
- You will have plenty of change left over from your 200 bucks. Maybe grab a cheap flash or some extra memory cards instead. If you really feel like you need more room, maybe check out the Canon EF-S 24mm f/2.8 STM pancake lens, but that is more for street stuff than portraits. For a wedding, you really want that 50mm compression to make your sister look great. Dont overthink it. Just grab the fifty, practice a bit before the big day, and you will be totally fine. Its honestly the best bang for your buck by a long shot.
TL;DR: I am in the same boat and honestly just as lost. Catching up on this thread, it sounds like everyone is just as confused as I am. I keep looking at lenses from Canon or Sigma but cant decide if the focal length trade-off is worth the cost. At this point, just pick a reputable brand and hope for the best, because the conflicting info is driving me crazy too.
