I just got a Sony a7C because I want to take nice pictures of my daughter for her 2nd birthday in about three weeks but honestly I have no idea what I'm doing. Everyone says get a prime lens for those blurry backgrounds but there are so many numbers and it's confusing.
My logic was that a bigger number means it zooms more? So like an 85mm is better than a 35mm? But then someone told me 35mm is better for being inside a house so you don't have to stand in the other room. I only have about $450 left to spend after buying the camera and I'm totally lost on which one to pick for just basic head and shoulder shots. Which one is best for a newbie...
I've been in your shoes and honestly it's easy to overthink this. I didn't want to blow my whole budget on something too complicated so I stuck with what works for most people. Here are the two I've used that I'm actually happy with:
- The Sony FE 85mm f/1.8 is basically the gold standard for that blurry look. I've found it's super reliable and the focus is fast which you'll need for a 2-year-old. It's right at the top of your $450 limit if you find a good deal or buy used.
- The Sony FE 50mm f/1.8 is what I'd call the safe budget pick. It's much cheaper, usually about $200. I use this one when I'm inside the house because you don't need nearly as much room to move around. Tbh, since you're doing a birthday party indoors, I'd go with the 50mm. I'm very satisfied with how mine performs for the price and you won't be constantly hitting the walls trying to get the shot. Plus, you'll have over $200 left over for other stuff. Stick to the Sony brand lenses starting out, it's just safer and they just work without any fussing around with settings. It's better to have a lens that works well in a tight space than one that's too zoomed in for a house.
Re: "I've been in your shoes..."
- How big is your room? 50mm is amazing because it mimics human eyes! No face distortion. Try Sony FE 50mm f/1.8 or Samyang AF 45mm f/1.8 FE for alternatives!
Just catching up on this thread. Honestly, trying to grab good shots of a toddler is a workout, so you definitely want something that focuses fast. I totally get the budget worry too, especially after dropping so much on the camera body. I have been super happy with the Sony FE 50mm f/1.8 because it is so affordable and really reliable for indoor stuff. Before you pull the trigger on anything though, how much space do you have in the room where you are planning to do the birthday shoot? If you are in a tiny apartment, that 85mm might be a struggle, but if you have some room to move back, it is unbeatable for portraits. Have you checked out the used market for these lenses? You can sometimes find them in perfect condition for way less than retail, which helps keep that extra cash in your pocket.
100% agree
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