I just got this Nikon D3400 from my uncle and honestly I have no idea how to use it yet but I really want to take it with me to New York City next month for a trip. I really want to try taking those cool street photos of people walking around and the buildings but the lens that came with the camera is kind of bulky and it makes a loud zooming noise every time I try to focus it. Someone told me I should look into getting a prime lens because they are supposedly better for street photography but I dont even really know what that means exactly? I think it just means it doesnt zoom in or out which sounds kind of scary because what if I am too far away?? But everyone online says it makes you a better photographer because you have to move your feet.
Im actually really nervous about people staring at me if I have a giant camera setup so I want something really small and subtle that wont stand out too much. My budget is super tight though like maybe $200 at most because I already spent way too much on the hotel and everything for the trip. I saw some numbers like 35mm and 50mm when I was searching and I am just totally lost with all the technical talk. Is one of those easier for a beginner to use? I really dont want to buy the wrong thing and be stuck with it.
Which cheap Nikon prime lens should I get for my first time trying street photography... I really have no clue where to start.
> I saw some numbers like 35mm and 50mm when I was searching and I am just totally lost with all the technical talk. You definitely want to go with the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G. I remember my first trip to Chicago with my D3200, which is basically the same camera you have. I brought a 50mm lens thinking it would be fine, but on that sensor, it felt like I was staring through a telescope. I couldn't capture the buildings or the vibe of the street without backing into traffic. Switched to the 35mm and it was a total game changer. Its tiny, weighs almost nothing, and you can find them used for like $130 or new for under $200. It stays quiet too, so people wont notice you as much. Since your camera doesnt have a focus motor in the body, the AF-S part of the name is super important so it actually autofocuses for you. It basically sees what your eyes see, so its way more natural for a beginner.
