I've got a wedding for my cousin in literally two weeks and I am freaking out because I realized my kit zoom just isn't giving me the look I need for the ceremony portraits. I'm shooting on a D750 and I've narrowed it down to two options but I'm totally stuck and need to buy something like right now.
My logic was that the 85mm f/1.8G is the obvious choice for that compression and background blur everyone wants but then I started thinking about the 50mm f/1.4G. I'm gonna be in a pretty cramped garden for part of the day so I'm scared the 85mm will force me to stand way too far back and I'll lose the shot if people walk in front of me or if I hit a wall. But then the 50mm... some people say the 1.4 can be a bit soft wide open and the 1.8 is actually sharper? I'm so confused.
My budget is capped at like 550 bucks so I'm looking at the used market mostly to save some cash. I really need to pull the trigger on this tonight so I have time to actually practice with it before the ceremony. Is the 85mm worth the risk of being too long or should I play it safe with the 50mm for the extra room? I'm leaning toward the 85 but the space issue is killing me...
TL;DR: Go with the 50mm! It is the safest bet for tight gardens and way more versatile for a wedding! Omg weddings are so stressful but honestly you are gonna do great! Since you mentioned being in a cramped garden, I would 100% play it safe and grab the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G instead of the 85mm. I tried using a long lens in a small backyard once and it was a nightmare because I literally couldnt back up far enough to get peoples shoulders in the frame... so embarrassing lol. The 1.8 version is actually a total hidden gem compared to the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4G too. Its super snappy and very reliable which is exactly what you need for a big event. People say the 1.4 is pro but the 1.8 is sharper wide open and way lighter to carry around all day! Plus you can find them used for like 150 bucks which leaves you tons of money for extra batteries or a nice strap. The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G is fantastic for blur but if youre hitting walls, youll miss the moment entirely. Stick with the 50mm on your Nikon D750 24.3 MP DSLR and youll have a blast! Its such a reliable workhorse and the photos will look amazing!
