id grab one of these for the wedding:

• Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G: cheap and versatile.
• Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G: better portraits but pricier.

Late to the party but honestly that D850 is a total beast for a beginner lol. Over the years ive seen so many people struggle with the blur... its usually just a shutter speed issue since that sensor is so high res it shows every tiny shake. A prime lens just means it doesnt zoom, so you have to move your feet, but they're way better in low light. To stay under budget, id definitely look at the used market:

• Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G ED for those wider group shots
• Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 28mm f/1.8G if you need a wider view for the reception Going used is the way to go tbh. Check sites like MPB or KEH so you get a warranty and dont get ripped off. Also, keep your shutter speed above 1/250 if you want to stop the blur. That camera is basically a pro tool, it just takes a minute to learn... youll get it.

Stumbled on this thread and honestly, you arent alone. That camera is a total beast, but it definitely demands more from the person behind the lens than a standard kit would. When I first jumped into primes, I was nervous about not having zoom, but it actually forced me to learn composition way faster.

• Try keeping your shutter speed at double your focal length, so like 1/100s for a 50mm, to cut down on that blur you mentioned.
• Stick to Nikon glass if you want that guaranteed compatibility, but Ive seen some decent results from Sigma too if you check the mount type carefully. I picked up a Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G when I started and it was a safe, solid choice for learning. Just take it slow and maybe practice in your backyard before the wedding starts. Dont stress too much about the buttons, eventually they just become muscle memory.

Did this last week, worked perfectly

Noted!

Been there! I saved a ton using the Tamron SP 45mm f/1.8 Di VC USD for Nikon! Its stabilization is fantastic for shaky hands.

• super sharp
• killer price Love it!