Just picked up an X-T30 and im super lost with lenses. I really want to take nice portraits of my golden retriever in the backyard, but the kit lens just isnt giving me that blurry background look i see on instagram. My budget is like 400 bucks tops. What lens should I grab?
Honestly, grab a Viltrox 56mm f/1.4 AF used. It fits the budget perfectly and gives that dreamy blur. Just be careful with focus, dogs move fast!
Coming back to this, you definitely want to look at the Sigma 56mm F1.4 DC DN Contemporary. Its sharpness is honestly wild for the price. I tried shooting my own pup with it, but be careful since the autofocus can be a little picky if the dog is running full tilt at you. You might want to consider these points too:
- Check the used market for the Samyang AF 75mm F1.8 X if you can find a deal, just keep in mind the focus speed is a bit slower than native glass.
- Always update the firmware if you get third party lenses, it makes a huge difference in reliability. Basically, dont overspend on glass just yet. Just make sure to check if the firmware is current before you go out shooting.
Hey! That dog sounds adorable. Getting that creamy bokeh with the kit lens is tough since the aperture just isnt wide enough. To get that look, you really need a prime lens. Quick question though, how much space do you have to back up from your dog?
- Fujifilm Fujinon XF 50mm f/2 R WR is insanely sharp and compact
- Viltrox 56mm f/1.4 AF XF gives you that shallow depth of field for a steal Honestly, fast glass changes everything.