I'm trying to pick a prime for my Nikon D5600 before my sisters grad next month. I read the 85mm 1.8G is the best for portraits but others say its too tight for a crop sensor in small spaces. I'm shooting in a tiny backyard so should I just go with the 50mm or is the 85mm worth the squeeze?
Honestly, I was pretty disappointed when I first tried using the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G on my D5600 in a tight space. Everyone raves about it, but unfortunately, it is just way too tight for a crop sensor if you dont have a massive field to work in. I had issues with it every time I tried to take group shots or even full-body portraits because I kept hitting the back wall or stepping into flower beds lol. Since your D5600 has that 1.5x crop factor, that 85mm lens is basically acting like a 127mm. In a tiny backyard for a graduation, you are gonna be miserable trying to frame her. I found that the experience just wasnt as good as I expected for casual shoots and it felt way too restrictive.
- The 50mm gives you a 75mm equivalent which is the sweet spot for portraits.
- You wont have to scream instructions from across the yard just to get her in frame.
- Its much more reliable for finding focus in closer quarters. I really suggest playing it safe and going with the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G. It is much more versatile and you wont end up with a bunch of shots where her head is cut off because you couldn't back up any further. If the yard is truly microscopic, the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G is a backup option, but the 50mm is definitely the better portrait choice for that camera body.
Like someone mentioned, that 85mm is risky for tight spots. I've been really happy with the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G lately. Its more affordable and works well when youre cramped, whereas the 85mm can be a struggle. The Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G is also a solid, safe choice for group shots, tho it has more distortion than the 50mm. No complaints here!
Just wanted to say thanks for everyone chiming in. Super helpful discussion.
Same here!
> it is just way too tight for a crop sensor Like someone mentioned, that length can be a real pain in small spots! I totally remember my first time shooting in a tiny studio, I was literally tripping over my own gear trying to back up far enough! It was such a hilarious mess! Are you aiming for those tight headshots or do you need to see the whole graduation gown? Also, how many feet of space do you actually have to move around in?
