Im so hyped because I finally got a 90D for my sisters graduation photos in May! I read the nifty fifty is a must-have but then some guys online say the 85mm 1.8 is way better for bokeh.
My budget is around $400. Since the 90D is a crop sensor will the 85mm be way too tight for indoor shots?
Be careful with that 85mm because it is way too tight indoors. I would suggest the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM so you dont end up literally against a wall.
This is exactly what I needed to hear. Youre a lifesaver honestly.
Building on the earlier suggestion, Marvin is spot on about the field of view. Ive spent years shooting with crop bodies like the 7D and 90D, and the 1.6x crop factor really changes the math. An 85mm lens becomes a 136mm equivalent. Unless youre shooting in a cathedral or outdoors, you'll be constantly hitting your back against the wall trying to fit your sister in the frame. In my experience, these are much better options for a $400 budget:
- Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM is the easiest recommendation. It gives you that classic 80mm portrait feel. Its sharp, light, and very affordable.
- Sigma 30mm f/1.4 DC HSM Art is a fantastic choice if you want more bokeh. It acts like a 48mm on the 90D, so its much more versatile for indoor shots.
- Canon EF 35mm f/2 IS USM is great if you need image stabilization, tho it might be pushing your budget if you buy it brand new. Honestly, I would grab the 50mm STM and then spend the leftover cash on a used Canon Speedlite 430EX III-RT. Having a bounce flash will do way more for the quality of your indoor graduation photos than a slightly longer lens would. The 85mm is a beast, but definitely keep it for outdoor sessions where you have room to roam.
