Honestly im just so sick of my kit lens. I keep trying to take portraits of my niece in the backyard and the background is just a blurry mess that doesnt look professional at all, or the focus is super soft when I zoom in. Im trying to get those creamy bokeh shots but this 18-135mm is just not cutting it for me anymore, its been like six months of me trying to make it work and im totally over it. I have a Canon 90D and I really need something sharper because I have a family wedding coming up in about three weeks and I dont want my pictures to look like total garbage again.
I have around 400-500 dollars to spend, maybe a bit more if its really worth it. Im based in Chicago if that matters for used gear shops. Should I just get the 50mm f/1.8 STM because its cheap or is it worth saving up for the 85mm f/1.8? I feel like the 50mm might be too tight or too wide or something on my 90D crop sensor, im honestly so confused by all the math. Does anyone actually like using the 85mm on a crop body for portraits or is it gonna be a nightmare to frame?
Saw this earlier but keep in mind that the Sigma 30mm f/1.4 DC HSM Art is a beast for crop sensors. It gives you a much more natural look indoors than the 85mm.
TL;DR: Definitely go for the 85mm. It is way better for flattering portrait compression than a 50mm on a crop sensor. Building on the earlier suggestion, the 85mm focal length is honestly a game changer. On your 90D, the 85mm acts like about 135mm, which sounds long but is actually perfect for headshots because it minimizes facial distortion. I have been using the Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM for years and the bokeh is just lovely. It feels way more professional than the nifty fifty. Since you are in Chicago, check out Central Camera downtown or browse the used section on MPB. You can totally find a copy in your budget. The 50mm is fine, but it can feel a bit awkward indoors if you dont have much space. Grab the 85mm and your nieces photos will look fantastic.
Honestly, I feel your pain. Dealing with that kit lens for portraits is just brutal and I had issues with mine for months before I finally gave up on it. It just never gave me that crisp, clean look I wanted and honestly, it was pretty disappointing overall. Since you have a 90D, here is the reality of the situation:
- The 50mm is a classic for a reason, but it can feel a bit awkward indoors because you end up backing into walls constantly.
- Using an 85mm on a crop sensor makes for incredible compression, but you definitely need some space to move around outside, so keep that in mind for the wedding.
- Definitely try to test them out at a local shop before dropping the cash, because buying used gear is usually fine but you gotta be careful with focus rings and glass quality. I personally prefer the 85mm length for portraits because it is just way more flattering for facial features, but yeah, it can be a nightmare to frame if you are stuck in a small room. Just make sure you practice a bit before the big day so you arent fumbling with the settings. Good luck with the wedding, I am sure you will do great if you pick up a decent prime.
Can vouch for this