So Ive been a D850 user for like three years now and usually I just stick to my 24-70mm f/2.8 because its easy but honestly Im starting to feel like Im not getting the most out of that 45 megapixel sensor anymore. Ive got this big indoor wedding coming up in Seattle next month and the lighting at the venue is notoriously dim and moody so Im finally looking to invest in a solid prime lens to really push the sharpness and low light performance. I used to think my zoom was enough but after doing some test shots last weekend I realized the corner softness is driving me crazy when I crop in.
My requirements are pretty specific since I dont want to carry a ton of gear:
- Must be sharp wide open because Ill be at f/1.4 or f/1.8 all night
- Budget is around $1200 maybe $1300 if its really worth it
- Needs fast autofocus because those candid moments dont wait
- Weather sealing is a big plus since its the PNW and it rains constantly
Im stuck between the Sigma Art 35mm and the Nikon 50mm 1.4G but Ive heard the 50mm might be a bit slow on the AF side compared to newer glass. Or maybe I should just go for the 85mm for portraits? I really want something that can handle the high res sensor without looking mushy. What are you guys using on your high-MP bodies these days...
Omg you totally have to check out the Sigma 40mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art for Nikon F!! I know everyone jumps to the 35mm or 50mm but this 40mm is literally on another level. Its based on a cine lens design so the glass is absolutely massive and it handles the 45 megapixels of the D850 better than almost anything else Ive tried. The sharpness wide open is just mind-blowing... like, it stays crisp all the way to the edges which is exactly what you need if youre cropping in. It is definitely a heavy beast but it feels so solid and the weather sealing has never failed me even in heavy mist. It is super reliable which is what I care about most when shooting events... missing focus on a wedding is my literal nightmare. If you want a second option that wont break the bank or your back check the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G. Its way under your $1200 budget but seriously amazing on high-res sensors! Sometimes the 1.4 versions are just bulky and slow but this 1.8 is snappy and light for those candid moments. I love it because it delivers that pro look without being a pain to carry around all night. Just make sure you grab a high-quality filter if youre gonna be out in the Seattle rain tho!! These two lenses are absolute workhorses for a wedding environment.
Skip the 50mm 1.4G because the AF is pretty sluggish. The Tamron SP 35mm f/1.4 Di USD is sharper than the Sigma Art and offers the weather sealing you'll need for Seattle rain.
Re: "Omg you totally have to check out the..."
- I have to agree with Alexked on that one. In my experience, that 40mm is probably the most reliable lens for actually hitting every pixel on the D850 sensor. It is built like an absolute tank, which is great for the Seattle weather, but it's a massive piece of glass to lug around all day. Since you're trying to keep your kit minimal, I have a couple of questions:
- Are you planning to use this prime as your sole lens for the night, or will you be switching back to the zoom for wider shots?
- Does the physical weight of the lens matter much to you, or are you willing to deal with a heavy setup as long as the sharpness is there? I've tried many primes over the years and usually, the ones that handle 45MP best are the ones that end up being the heaviest, so it's a bit of a trade-off.
> Or maybe I should just go for the 85mm for portraits? I would suggest being careful with the Sigma 35mm, sometimes the AF needs the USB dock to really nail it on high-res bodies. If you want that 85mm reach, the Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art for Nikon F is basically legendary for sharpness, but its a total brick. Honestly, check out the lens tests on Photography Life... they have a great guide on which glass actually survives the D850 resolution.
