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.
