Im trying to figure out the best portrait lens for my old Canon Rebel T6 before my sisters wedding in upstate NY next month. I looked up a bunch of stuff online and most people swear by the 50mm f/1.8 STM because its super cheap and sharp. My logic was that since crop sensors make it closer to an 80mm, it should be perfect for headshots. But then I read somewhere that working indoors in a smaller venue might make it too zoomed in and I should maybe look at a 35mm instead? Im totally second guessing myself now. Has anyone used the nifty fifty on a T6 for indoor portraits or should I be looking at something else with my 200 buck budget...
You are actually spot on about the crop factor math, but indoor venues can definitely feel tight with an 80mm equivalent! Having shot weddings on crop bodies for years, here is my technical breakdown for your 200 dollar budget:
- The Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM is roughly 125 bucks and delivers astonishing sharpness for the price. The f/1.8 aperture gives you fantastic subject separation in cluttered rooms.
- If the venue is cramped, grab the Canon EF 24mm f/2.8 STM or a Sigma 30mm instead so you actually fit people in the frame.
- For tight spaces, the nifty fifty will force you to back way up, which is tough during receptions. Stick to the 50mm if you have room to move, but buy the 24mm if you are stuck in tiny dressing rooms!