My trusty nifty fifty finally kicked the bucket after four years and I am beyond frustrated. The AF motor is just grinding and it wont lock focus anymore right when I have a graduation shoot scheduled for next weekend in downtown Chicago. I love my 90D but the crop factor makes finding a good, cheap portrait lens kind of a headache since a 50mm acts more like an 85mm and its always felt a bit tight indoors. I only have about 250-300 dollars to spend right now after paying rent. Is there anything sharp with decent bokeh in that range or am I stuck buying another plastic fantastic? Maybe something wider like a 35mm?
Building on the earlier suggestion, I remember a grad shoot near the Loop where the crowds were so thick I couldn't back up for a full body shot with my 50mm. I switched to a Sigma 17-50mm f/2.8 EX DC OS HSM and it honestly saved the day. It provides a constant aperture and the sharpness is solid for a zoom. You can find them used for around 220 bucks pretty easily.
@Reply #1 - good point! That 35mm focal length is way more natural on a 90D for indoor stuff. If you want something even faster for those Chicago shots tho, I've been really satisfied with the Sigma 30mm f/1.4 DC HSM Art. I snagged mine used for about 280 bucks and honestly it stays on my camera 90% of the time now. Couple reasons it works well:
- That f/1.4 aperture gives you way creamier bokeh than the f/2.8 macro for portraits.
- It feels super solid in the hand, not like a plastic toy.
- The 30mm width is perfect for group shots where the 50mm would be way too tight. Since you need it by next weekend, maybe check some local shops or look for fast shipping on used gear. Ngl, once you see the sharpness on this thing compared to the nifty fifty, youre gonna be glad yours broke... kinda lol.
In my experience, the Canon EF-S 35mm f/2.8 Macro IS STM is the best fit.
- Sharp wide open
- Versatile focal length It handles tight indoor spaces way better.
