What is the absolute best prime lens I should get for my new Nikon Z6ii? I honestly have no clue what I am doing and I feel like I am in way over my head with all these numbers and letters.
I just picked up the camera a couple weeks ago and I am super excited to get into photography, but I keep reading online that I need a prime lens to get those nice blurry backgrounds. I am currently just using the kit lens that came in the box and its fine but I want to take cooler photos of my golden retriever in the backyard and maybe some street shots when I visit Chicago next month. My budget is probably around 500 to 800 dollars if that is realistic?
I am so confused by the Nikon website. There are S-line lenses and then ones that aren't and I dont really understand if the extra money is worth it for a beginner like me. Do I want a 35mm or a 50mm? I tried looking it up and people are arguing in the comments about focal lengths and I just end up feeling more lost than when I started. Should I look for the Nikon brand ones or are there other companies that make them for cheaper? I dont want to make a huge mistake and buy something that doesnt fit or wont help me learn. Sorry if this is a dumb question but I just want to start taking better pictures instead of just using the auto mode on my phone all the time. Any advice for someone who literally just learned what an aperture was yesterday?
Honestly dont stress about the confusing names, we have all been there. Getting that blurry background is basically the fun part of photography. I started with the kit lens too and it was kinda disappointing for portraits of my dog. You definitely want a prime lens. Here is what I would suggest based on my own experience dragging my gear around:
- The Nikon NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.8 S is basically the gold standard. I had issues with how pricey it is, but the sharpness is just insane. It is an S-line, which just means Nikon put their best glass in it. Totally worth the extra cash.
- If that is too steep, the Viltrox 50mm f/1.8 Z is a solid alternative. It is way cheaper but honestly not as good as expected compared to the Nikon one. I had issues with the autofocus speed when my dog was running around, but for the price, it gets the job done. Honestly, get the 50mm. The 35mm is wider and sometimes makes faces look a bit weird if you get too close to your retriever. For your trip to Chicago, the 50mm is gonna give you that moody street vibe you see on Instagram. Just stick to the Nikon S-line if you can swing it, it will save you from upgrading later.
Honestly, grab the Nikon NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.8 S. It hits that perfect sweet spot for backyard dog photos and street stuff. Best bang for your buck by far.
Building on the earlier suggestion, are you closer to the dog or standing back? I had issues with the Nikon NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.8 S being slow, so maybe look at these:
- Nikon NIKKOR Z 40mm f/2 (cheap, small)
- Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG DN Art (sharp but heavy)
Same setup here, love it