What is the absolute best portrait lens for a Nikon F-mount body that wont drain my savings? Im shooting a wedding in Chicago next month and really need something with that nice blurry background effect. Ive been looking at the old AF-D 85mm f/1.8, and while people say the bokeh is decent, others claim the autofocus is way too loud for ceremonies. Then theres the newer G series, but it seems a bit pricey for my current budget of maybe 300 bucks. Should I just save up for the G version or is the older one gonna be fine if I use it carefully? Im kinda lost here.
Honestly, skip the old screw-drive lenses for a wedding. That AF motor noise is gonna drive you crazy during a quiet ceremony and honestly might annoy the couple too. If you can stretch your budget just a little bit, look for a used Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G. You can usually find them in great condition for around 350 if you hunt on the used market. It is super sharp, light, and the bokeh is really smooth. If that is still too much, check out the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G if you have a crop sensor body. Its incredibly cheap and totally usable for portraits if you get close enough. Dont settle for loud gear when you need to be stealthy during the vows.
Honestly, if you are really stuck on that 300 dollar mark, look at the Tamron SP 85mm f/1.8 Di VC USD. You might find a used copy around your budget if you hunt hard enough. It is sharper than the older Nikon glass and the stabilization is a lifesaver for wedding work. The autofocus is silent and reliable too. Dont risk the AF-D for a wedding, the noise is just way too distracting.
Totally agree with the others about avoiding the screw-drive lenses for weddings. The noise is just too much. If you need something reliable under 300 bucks, maybe try one of these alternatives instead:
- Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G for a cheaper, fast prime.
- Sigma 85mm f/1.4 EX DG HSM if you get lucky finding a deal. Basically, dont stress too much about the 85mm if it breaks your budget. A nice 50mm works well too.