35mm f/1.8g vs 50mm f/1.8g

Donk1166

Donk1166

Suspended / Banned
Messages
111
Edit My Images
No
Ok ok I know this has been discussed a million times before... Which is best? Is it impossible to choose??
I've looked at the prices & I can afford 1 then save up for the other.. but which one first??
 
Which focal length do you use the most? If you have a zoom try both and see which you prefer.
 
Is there any truth in the rumour that the 50mm is better at Bokeh? (I'm new so don't laugh at me for using that word!!)

I only use my 18-55 at the mo with plans to get either a 55-200 to go with it on my D5100 or get an all rounder like an 18-105. But I read so much that everyone should have a 35 or a 50 in their kit bag. I love the idea of just walking around (New York next month) with a good prime fitted. I would def do more outdoor than indoor so I think I'm leaning towards the 50.. then buy the 35 later :0)
 
For general walking about the 35mm gives a wider field of view.

When I have used the 50mm it's more as a portrait lens, as it's roughly a 85mm lens once you take in crop factor.

I have the 35mm and it's always on my camera unless I need to go longer then it's 70-300. It's a nice viewing angle for walk around shots.

Walkround = 35mm
Portraits = 50mm

Thats my view anyway.
 
Rupek said:
For general walking about the 35mm gives a wider field of view.

When I have used the 50mm it's more as a portrait lens, as it's roughly a 85mm lens once you take in crop factor.

I have the 35mm and it's always on my camera unless I need to go longer then it's 70-300. It's a nice viewing angle for walk around shots.

Walkround = 35mm
Portraits = 50mm

Thats my view anyway.
Click to expand...

I'm inclined to agree with you. I've just been out for a walk with my camera trying both 35 & 50 with my kit lens. After staring at the photos (for flipping ages!!) I think I prefer the greater width you get from the 35. There's always the option to crop the picture!!

I think I need to buy one before I change my mind!!
 
I have a 35mm for my D3100 and it's hardly ever off my camera!
 
That's it, decision made. I'm off to Mifsuds tomorrow in search of a good deal on a 35.

Thanks to all of you for your advice & opinions
 
as far as i know the optical quality of the lenses are practically the same so you cant really go wrong.
 
50 will get more bokeh than 35. but only a very very tiny amount, not worth sacrificing the field of view.

also, going from 35mm DX to 50mm on full frame. i've noticed although i get same field of view in the photo, there is a lot of difference in perspective. 35mm feels quite different to 50mm. standing at similar distance to a subject, the 35mm will make the subject seems further away, even when resulting photo's field of view is the same.

so although people say 35mm is a standard 50 on crop, it's not true. only thing that's changed is the field of view, you are cropping the field of view. the actual lens properties (eg 35mm has some slight wide angle properties) are still unchanged.



but having said that, a 35mm is way more useful than 50mm for DX cameras. it makes using it indoors a viable option. after all, you are buying a low-light lens.
 
Last edited:
I'm glad you mentioned the Bokeh side of things. It was that element that was drawing me back to the 50mm. If they're very similar then I'd say the 35mm has more pros than the 50.. but it's close!!
 
I had the same dilemma, so decided to look through my photos exif data to see the focal length I use the most. Most of my stuff was around 50mm so went for that.

I found that when searching forums, reviews, websites it is often overlooked, but I really love it and don't regret getting it, great for portraits, and nice bokeh.

I use it on a crop sensor so sometimes I do have to take a few steps back when eyeing up my shot but it just takes a bit getting use to. Havent used the 35mm but i'm sure its just as great.

Guess it all depends on what you shoot to what you choose :)
 
optically the 50 is better apparently but i would go with a 35mm too its just more practical on a crop.
 
Last edited:
I'm in this dilemma at the minute. Trying to decide which will suit me best!
 
I've decide to go with the 35 as I prefer the width it gives as well as the cropping option to match a 50.

Unfortunately it'll have to wait as my wife is still sending me on a guilt trip for buying a 2nd hand 55-200!!!!!!
 
Donk1166 said:
I've decide to go with the 35 as I prefer the width it gives as well as the cropping option to match a 50.

Unfortunately it'll have to wait as my wife is still sending me on a guilt trip for buying a 2nd hand 55-200!!!!!!
Click to expand...

Don't tell her then ;)
 
I did the same experiment and decided that the 35mm was the more practical option for me. I decided OK...just as the Sony £50 cashback offer finished.......DOH!
 
I'm planning on finding a bargain in the states next week which will accidentally fall into my basket!!
 
Ive had both at the same time and I always found myself reaching for my 35mm every time. I just recently upgraded from my 50mm 1.8 to the 1.4 version should be interesting to see which one i grab for most now.
 
I prefer the 35 it gives you a fullframe 50mm equivalent and is perfect for street photography
 
Another thing to consider for nikon dx users is that dxo measure the lenses at there optimum aperture. Which unusually on the 35mm is wide open f1.8. DXO scores are always up for debate so read into this what you will, but this lens is obviously very good wide open. Where as both the 50mm g lenses sweet spot is f2.8. The old 50mm f1.8 d lens sweet spot f1.8.
 
Last edited:
I have the 50mm and it's a cracking lens but I do find it hard to frame my shots at times in doors
 
I have both and have found on a crop body the 35mm is way more useful. The 50mm only comes out to play now for portrait shots. With a 35mm you can get closer (usually). I found with a 50mm, walking away to be harder to do. Especially indoors.
 
Glad I read this as its now pulled me back to getting a 35 - sounds like a good all rounder
 
35mm has definitely got my vote! Just bought a 55-200 so I'm now saving up again
 
Me too...its not a good idea posting here...it just costs more money :bonk:
 
I had the same dilemma last year and ended up with the 35mm. Like others have said it's a great lens and I use it a lot.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top