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3 years, 5 months ago

Would you buy a fixed focal length lens for a DSLR?

Nikon finally released a 50mm f/1.4g AS-F lens and I take lots of pictures of my family and gadgets. It seems that the crazy fast lens is perfect for me, but I'm not sure if the fixed focal length will ruin all my fun.
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montereykiddo | 3 years, 5 months ago
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If you already have an everyday lens, you should absolutely buy it. Prime lenses (or fixed focal length) are generally much sharper, faster, and have better glass. You should run to your nearest camera store and strap one on for a test drive. Usually stores don't have a problem with this.

I have a Nikkor 85mm 1.8 prime and love it! The pictures it can produce are fabulous.

Prime lenses are often suited for folks who enjoy portrait photography. For example, if you went on a nature hike, you would probably want a lens with some versatility because you never know when that perfect shot of an animal in the distance will come up and you may not have time to switch lenses.

Also keep in mind the 'zoom factor'. Usually a 50mm lens frames like a 75mm lens on a regular 35mm camera because of the 1.5 zoom factor. This means you will have to stand a bit further back from your subject.
source(s):
My own experience.

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slpaok | 3 years, 5 months ago
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I just bought one and love it...90mm macro lens. Takes incredible portrait and macro shots. Plan to purchase another 50 mmf/1.4 myself as I'm so impressed by the quality of this one. My normal walk-around is a 18-250mm and I was also hesitant but the quality of a fixed/prime lens is terrific [my other isn't a shabby lens but the prime's are just right for what they do]. For versatility I stock to my walk-around zoom but for quality on those types I enjoy most [macro and portraits] then fixed it the way to go.

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mglukhovsky | 3 years, 5 months ago
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I absolutely would, but only if I already owned a zoom lens. Fixed lenses are great because they're incredibly fast, and so useful in low-light situations and sports/high-speed photography. It does lack the versatility of a zoom lens, but it's a good thing to have if you can afford it.

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ojmason | 3 years, 5 months ago
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I've got a zoom lens and find it very convenient. Having a fixed length one is a bit limiting, and you don't want to swap lenses all the time. So, I wouldn't buy one myself.

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