50mm f1.8G lens

[judders]

I have an 18 - 70mm 3.5 -4.5 Zoom lens on my Nikon D50 and am thinking of getting the Nikkor AF-S DX 50mm f1.8G for portraits and low light photography. Would this best complement the zoom lens, and breath new life into my old (5 years I've had it) D50 Nikon? Best price for the 50mm I've seen is £147 (Value Basket.Com) how does that sound? It would be a cheaper option for me than replacing the D50 at the moment and hopefully would still be a good investment for if I do get a D1500 for instance next year!

 

[Cagey75]

If you have never used a 50mm prime in the past, you will love it! Everyone should own one. I sold mine a while back after buying a Tamron 17-50 2.8, didn't think I'd miss it. I've been meaning to buy another one since. It's on my list.

Get it, and enjoy

 

[TCR4x4]

You could get the older 50mm AF-D as you don't need the focus motor built into the lens with the d50. However it won't autofocus if you decided to change to a newer budget body.
Also consider the 35mm f/1.8. It compliments the crop sensor a little more, as the 50mm can sometimes be a bit too long especially indoors.

 

[judders]

Hi TCR,

Further to your advice, I am looking to purchase the Nikon 35mm 1.8 lens for my D50. I think the 50mm may well not be quite so flexible in covering indoor portrait shots and outdoor night shots. If you have any further advice I would welcome it.

Many thanks

 

[TCR4x4]

The 35 is a great lens, very sharp and a good price.

To best decide which would be most suitable for you, spend a few hours shooting your exsiting lens at both 35mm and 50mm.

Obviously this only gives you the field of view, and not the lovely shallow depth of field, but you will be able to tell if the 50mm is too long for your style of shooting, or likewise the 35mm too short.

 

[judders]

Hi

Great idea will give that a try, I had already checked by looking through view finder, but will shoot a few frames off and try at 35mm and 50mm