Ive been shooting with my D750 for about five years now, mostly just sticking to the 24-120mm kit lens because it was convenient for weddings, but lately the lack of sharpness and that slow aperture are driving me crazy. I have a portrait session coming up in about three weeks in Chicago and I really need something with better bokeh separation without spending a grand on a high-end glass.
I was looking at the 50mm f/1.8G because everyone says its the go-to cheap prime, but then I started reading about the 85mm f/1.8G too. The problem is I have a strict budget of around 300 bucks, maybe 350 if I can find a decent used copy somewhere. I know the basics of how these work but the price-to-performance ratio feels all over the place when you look at these older AF-S lenses compared to the newer stuff. Is it worth stretching the budget for the 85mm, or is the 50mm still the undisputed king for someone on a tight budget who needs to get those crisp shots fast?
TL;DR: Grab the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G. It is cheaper and more versatile for tight Chicago spots. Just watch your depth of field at f/1.8 so eyes stay sharp.
> The problem is I have a strict budget of around 300 bucks, maybe 350 if I can find a decent used copy somewhere. Adding my two cents here, honestly, if you can scrape together the cash, look for a used Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G. I know people swear by the 50mm, but I personally had issues with its bokeh transition. It felt a bit nervous, kinda busy, and didnt give me that creamy look I wanted for headshots. I used to shoot with it, but unfortunately, it just felt like a cheaper plastic toy compared to the 85mm. If you find the 85mm too tight for Chicago streets, maybe check out the Tamron SP 45mm f/1.8 Di VC USD. It has vibration control, which is a lifesaver if you are shooting handheld portraits in dim light. It is definitely sharper than the older Nikon 50s too. I tried one out last year and the micro-contrast was way better than expected. Whatever you do, dont get caught up in the hype of the f/1.4 versions. Theyre too expensive and honestly, the f/1.8 variants are sharper wide open anyway. Just pick up the 85mm if you can find one, the compression for portraits is just leagues ahead of any 50mm lens I have ever touched.
TL;DR: Grab the 50mm. Honestly, for weddings and portraits, the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G is a total no-brainer. It is dirt cheap and way sharper than that kit lens. I used one for years and was always super satisfied with the results. You can find them used for under 200 bucks easily, leaving you extra cash for, like, extra memory cards or a nice dinner in Chicago. Just go for it.