I just got my first real camera which is the Sony a6400 and I am so excited to start using it!! I have been using my phone forever but I want those cool photos with the blurry backgrounds like you see on Instagram. People keep telling me I need a prime lens but I honestly dont even know what that means exactly lol... I think it means it doesnt zoom?
Sorry if that is a super basic thing to ask but I have no idea where to start. My budget is pretty tight like maybe 250 bucks max because I spent all my money on the camera itself. I mostly want to take cute pics of my cat and some plants in my yard here in Florida. What is the best cheap prime lens I should buy for a beginner?
Congrats on getting the a6400, its a killer camera. Youre totally right that a prime lens doesnt zoom. Because the glass is fixed, manufacturers can make the aperture (the f-number) much wider, which is what gives you that blurry background look you see on Insta. For cats and plants, you want a normal or portrait focal length so you dont have to stand weirdly close or far away. I have used a ton of glass on this system and for under 250 bucks, these are basically the best options right now:
- Sigma 30mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary for Sony E
- This is probably the most recommended lens for a reason. Its sharp as a tack and f/1.4 is crazy good for low light and blur. It is usually right around 250ish used or on sale.
- Sony E 50mm f/1.8 OSS
- If you want the absolute best background blur for your cat, this is it. The OSS helps keep your shots steady. Its a bit tight though, so you will be backing up a lot indoors.
- Viltrox 33mm f/1.4 AF for Sony E
- A very solid third-party choice that fits your budget perfectly if you find a deal. It has a very nice build quality for the price. Tbh if you can find the Sigma used, grab that one first. It stays on my camera like 90 percent of the time because it just works for everything. Just remember that with a prime, you have to use your feet to zoom in and out. It takes a second to get used to but youll love the results way more than your phone photos.
