Im getting super frustrated trying to pick a prime lens for my Nikon D850. I keep reading that the 85mm 1.8G is the holy grail for portraits because of the compression, but then I see folks swear by the 50mm 1.4 for low light indoor shots. My budget is around 500 bucks and I really need this for my sisters wedding in Chicago next month so I dont have time to mess around with returns. My logic was the 85mm would be better for flattering faces but I dont want to be trapped in a cramped venue with no space to move back. Has anyone actually used both for events?
> I dont want to be trapped in a cramped venue with no space to move back. Honestly, I get that fear totally. I shot a wedding last year and having both would be ideal, but if you have to pick one on a budget, go with the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G. It really is the king for portraits. The compression on that glass is just beautiful and flatteringly smooth. Yeah, it can be tight in small rooms, but you can usually just step into the hallway or work from the back of the room for those candid shots. The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4G is great indoors, but honestly, it’s a bit soft wide open anyway. Stick with the 85mm, you'll be happy with the results. Just zoom with your feet if you can!
Like someone mentioned, stick to the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G for portraits. Honestly, for cramped venues, just swap in your kit zoom lens if you really need the wider angle.
@Reply #2 - good point! Honestly, just grab any fast prime from Nikon. The results are always amazing for weddings. Just dont overthink it and keep shooting!