Ugh, Ive been stressing over this for weeks. Im heading to my sisters wedding in Chicago next month and I promised to take some portraits of the family before the ceremony starts. Im shooting with a Nikon D7500 and my kit lens just isnt cutting it for that nice blurry background look. Im on a super tight budget, like 250 bucks max, and I cant decide if I should just grab the classic Nikon AF-S DX 35mm f/1.8G or try to find a used 50mm f/1.8G instead.
My logic was that the 35mm would be better for indoor group shots in the hotel, but then Im worried itll be too wide for flattering headshots. Then I looked at the 50mm and people say its better for portraits but I feel like it might be too cramped inside? Its making me crazy because I need to order something by Friday to have time to practice. Is the 50mm really worth the extra hassle or am I overthinking this and should just stick with the 35? Has anyone else dealt with this with a crop sensor body? I just dont want to look like a total amateur when the big day arrives...
TL;DR: Check out the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G if you want that creamy background bokeh. Building on the earlier suggestion, be careful with the 50mm indoors since your D7500 has a crop factor. You might want to consider checking KEH or MPB for a used copy to save cash. Just make sure to test your distance beforehand, as 50mm on DX can feel pretty tight in small hotel rooms.
Building on the earlier suggestion, honestly just grab a used Nikon AF-S DX Micro-NIKKOR 40mm f/2.8G. It hits that sweet spot perfectly for indoor groups and portraits without breaking the bank.
Had a moment to think about this while grabbing coffee, and honestly, don't stress too much. We've all been there with the gear panic right before an event. Before you pull the trigger, are you planning on using a flash for any of these shots, or are you strictly sticking to natural window light? That makes a massive difference. If you want the best of both worlds without spending a fortune, look into the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G. It is super sharp and handles low light indoors way better than the kit lens. If you decide you need more reach for those headshots, you could even hunt for a used Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G since they are usually priced around 150-180 bucks if you check reputable spots. I used the 35mm for years on my D7000 and honestly, it just works for almost everything. If you stick with the 35mm, just move your feet instead of zooming and you'll be totally fine.
Adding my two cents here, but I would suggest being super careful about buying used gear so close to a big event. Honestly, this whole situation reminds me of my cousin who tried to save a few bucks by picking up a random vintage lens for his own engagement party. He thought he was being clever, but the lens mount started wobbling right when the vows began and he ended up spending the entire reception trying to duct tape his camera together while everyone watched. It turned into such an ordeal, and he basically spent the night stressed out and sweating instead of enjoying the champagne. Definitely make sure you test whatever you get thoroughly before heading to Chicago.
Get the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G. On your crop sensor, it is much more versatile for groups indoors, and you can just step closer for portraits.
