Building on the earlier suggestion, the bokeh effect you want is purely a function of aperture width. The Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM is the industry standard for your crop sensor. Before you drop your cash, how far away do you usually stand from your sister? That distance matters a lot for focal length choices. Also, quick tip: keep your aperture at f/1.8 and get as close to your subject as the lens allows for the best blur.

> Is there a cheap one that works well for portraits? Im just so lost with all the model numbers... Saw this earlier but finally sitting down to reply. Honestly, everyone screams 50mm, but you should consider the focal length before jumping on that train. On your T7, which has a crop sensor, a 50mm acts more like an 80mm lens. That is great for tight headshots, but it can be really cramped if you are trying to shoot outdoors in a city like Chicago where you might want more of the background visible. Personally, I think the Canon EF-S 24mm f/2.8 STM pancake lens is a super underrated option for beginners. It is well under your 200 dollar budget and fits your camera perfectly. It is not as extreme on the blurry background as the 50mm, but it is way more versatile for travel. If you are dead set on that creamy bokeh though, stick with the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM lens. Just remember that because your sensor is cropped, you need to step back further than you think. If you go for the 50mm, make sure you are getting the STM version. Older versions have a noisy focus motor that sounds like a lawnmower. Buying used is fine, but check the glass for scratches under a bright light first. Dont overcomplicate it, just grab one of those and start shooting.

Late to the party but I feel your pain. Like someone mentioned, that 50mm life is the standard recommendation, but man, honestly? I had issues with my Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM constantly hunting for focus in low light, which was super annoying when trying to grab candid shots.

• Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM: Cheap and great bokeh when it hits, but the plastic build feels like a toy and the autofocus motor is pretty loud.
• Canon EF-S 24mm f/2.8 STM: Super compact, but honestly the background blur just isnt as good as expected compared to the 50mm. I really wanted to love the 50mm, but unfortunately it just gets soft around the edges and the focus consistency is spotty at best. Sometimes I feel like im fighting the gear more than actually taking photos, especially in dimmer spots around the city. Dont even get me started on the focus rings, they feel kinda gritty after a few months of use. It gets the job done eventually, but yeah, it can be a total headache when youre just trying to have fun.

Oh wow, welcome to the world of photography! That blurry background look is called bokeh and it is honestly the best part about upgrading from the kit lens. Definitely look for a 50mm f/1.8, but please please be careful when buying online. I have seen so many people accidentally buy the version for full-frame cameras that wont autofocus correctly on your Rebel, so double check the mount type before you click buy. Here is what I suggest keeping an eye out for:

• Make sure it says it is compatible with Canon EF-S mounts
• Always buy from a reputable shop so you dont get a knock-off
• Check the glass for any scratches or weird dust spots if you buy used It is totally doable for under 200 bucks. Just take your time shopping so you dont get ripped off!

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