Nikon 50mm f/1.8 or is the Nikon 50mm f/1.4 worth the extra money?

12 years 11 months ago #69911 by FunnyGuy
I'm finally getting around to getting a 50mm and just noticing there is a large difference in price between the 1.4 and 1.8. Which do you have, and really how often are you using this lens?


,
12 years 11 months ago #69937 by Kenya See
Honestly I would go with the f/1.4, but sharper, better in low light and faster.


Photo Comments
,
12 years 11 months ago #69939 by Joves
Well I dont have either I have the 50 1.2 AI version. Im not using mine a whole lot but, I probably will when I can get an FX body. On the DX bodies it isnt the same. The Nokon 1.8 or the Hify Fifty is a very well built lens. When I got my firs Slr the 50mms were the original kit lenses. If you want something that will force you to use your feet to frame then get the 50. Actually I consider using one and having one as a right of phtographic passage. Also the are great on Macro tubes for thin Depth of Field.


,
12 years 11 months ago - 12 years 11 months ago #69941 by McBeth Photography
Let me just say that I own the AF Nikkor 1.8D and am thrilled with the performance in low-light and its great in a DX camera for portraits. I love this lens!!!! But, I have borrowed a 50mm 1.4D and I can tell you that you really do get what you pay for .... better build, faster, able to leap tall buildings in a single bound, etc. For where I am right now though, I'm able to get some great images with the 1.8D. Images are fairly good wide open but nowhere near the clarity of my (new to me) 85mm f2 when it is shot wide open. I've found that if the image matters, I'm stopping the 50mm down to at least 2.8.

It is what it is.
,
12 years 11 months ago #69969 by Prago

McBeth Photography wrote: Let me just say that I own the AF Nikkor 1.8D and am thrilled with the performance in low-light and its great in a DX camera for portraits. I love this lens!!!! But, I have borrowed a 50mm 1.4D and I can tell you that you really do get what you pay for .... better build, faster, able to leap tall buildings in a single bound, etc. For where I am right now though, I'm able to get some great images with the 1.8D. Images are fairly good wide open but nowhere near the clarity of my (new to me) 85mm f2 when it is shot wide open. I've found that if the image matters, I'm stopping the 50mm down to at least 2.8.

:goodpost:

SWM into chainsaws and hockey masks seeks like-minded SWF. No weirdos, please
Photo Comments
,
12 years 11 months ago #70099 by John Landolfi
Generally agree with McBeth and Joves. I used the 1.4, and it is superb. But I have a 58mm/1.2 NOCT, and I would always pick that one over the 1.4. I gave it to my daughter, who is thrilled to use it on a D1X


Photo Comments
,

817.3K

241K

  • Facebook

    817,251 / Likes

  • Twitter

    241,000 / Followers

  • Google+

    1,620,816 / Followers

Latest Reviews

The Olympus Pen E-P7 is an affordable micro four thirds mirrorless camera with 4K video capabilities, a 20.3MP sensor, and 121 focus points, making it a solid entry-level camera for beginners.

May 13, 2024

The Panasonic G9 II is a 25.2-megapixel micro four thirds camera with numerous features that make it punch out of its weight class, like 779 AF points, 5.8K video, and weather sealing.

May 10, 2024

The Fujifilm XT5 is a 40MP mirrorless camera capable of 6.2K video at 30p. With those specs, it’s an ideal choice for photographers needing a camera to pull double duty for imaging and video.

Apr 25, 2024

The Canon EOS R100 is an entry-level mirrorless camera introduced in 2023. But just because it’s an entry-level camera doesn’t mean it’s a bare-bones camera. Find out why in this review!

Apr 22, 2024

Forum Top Posters

Latest Articles

The Olympus Pen E-P7 is an affordable micro four thirds mirrorless camera with 4K video capabilities, a 20.3MP sensor, and 121 focus points, making it a solid entry-level camera for beginners.

May 13, 2024

Starting a photography business is one thing; sustaining your business over a long period of time is another. Use the tips in this professional photography guide to build something with longevity!

May 13, 2024

The Panasonic G9 II is a 25.2-megapixel micro four thirds camera with numerous features that make it punch out of its weight class, like 779 AF points, 5.8K video, and weather sealing.

May 10, 2024

Cinematic photography is an interesting genre that combines photographic and videographic skills along with effective storytelling techniques. The result? Highly impactful images!

May 09, 2024

Newborn photography requires skill, the right gear, and a lot of patience. This beginner’s guide discusses critical topics that will help you be more prepared for before, during, and after the shoot.

May 08, 2024

To fill the frame means to expand the footprint of the subject in your shot. Get in close, zoom in, crop the image, or use other techniques to bring the subject to the forefront.

May 06, 2024

With these simple yet effective beginner photography tips, you can avoid some of the common mistakes beginners make and get improved results with your images.

May 06, 2024

Urban photography is a genre showcasing features in urban settings. You can photograph people, architecture, mass transit, and many other subjects. Learn how to do so in this guide!

Apr 30, 2024