How big of difference from f1.4 and f1.8? or f1.2 and f1.8?

13 years 5 months ago #4157 by Hamtastic
I'm looking at a couple different lenses. One being a 50mm lens and would like to know how much difference is there from the f1.8 and the f1.4?

The other lens is a 85mm. Of course there are two options here too. f1.2 and f1.8. I know the smaller number of course is better, but what I really want to know is by how much? Are the differences in photo quality really noticeable?

Thanks for the help

Jeff


Photo Comments
,
13 years 5 months ago #4975 by Solstar
It practical terms the depth of field at those apertures is so shallow that in real world applications there isn't much. The big difference may be in the quality of the build and the price tag. Try looking up reviews for the overall image quality for the lenses. Most good reviews will often reference the differences. I have a 50mm 1.4 and usually won't use it below f2. I also have an 85mm f1.8 that again I usually won't use below f2. Unless you are on a tripod in fixed conditions it takes some practice to focus in the right place at those apertures. Your budget may be the big determining factor.


,
13 years 5 months ago #4987 by Hamtastic

Solstar wrote: It practical terms the depth of field at those apertures is so shallow that in real world applications there isn't much. The big difference may be in the quality of the build and the price tag. Try looking up reviews for the overall image quality for the lenses. Most good reviews will often reference the differences. I have a 50mm 1.4 and usually won't use it below f2. I also have an 85mm f1.8 that again I usually won't use below f2. Unless you are on a tripod in fixed conditions it takes some practice to focus in the right place at those apertures. Your budget may be the big determining factor.


Understood, hey thanks for the advice. I do appreciate it.


Photo Comments
The following user(s) said Thank You: Solstar
,
13 years 5 months ago #4991 by Screamin Scott
Another point to mention is that due to cameras holding the aperture open until the shutter is depressed, the larger aperture lenses allow more light in resulting in brighter viewfinders. That makes a big difference in low light, available light photography

Scott Ditzel Photography

www.flickr.com/photos/screaminscott/

Photo Comments
,
13 years 5 months ago #5238 by Hamtastic

Screamin Scott wrote: Another point to mention is that due to cameras holding the aperture open until the shutter is depressed, the larger aperture lenses allow more light in resulting in brighter viewfinders. That makes a big difference in low light, available light photography


Thanks again Scott. I really appreciate the help :)


Photo Comments
,

817.3K

241K

  • Facebook

    817,251 / Likes

  • Twitter

    241,000 / Followers

  • Google+

    1,620,816 / Followers

Latest Reviews

Nikon’s retro-looking Nikon Zfc is anything but retro. Under its classic body is a host of features and amenities that make it a worthwhile compact mirrorless camera for 2024.

Apr 15, 2024

The Canon EOS R50 is one of the newest R-system cameras from Canon. Is it worth your money? Find out all the details you need to know in this comprehensive review.

Apr 10, 2024

The Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS II is Sony’s flagship mirrorless zoom lens. As such, it’s loaded with features and has a top-shelf build quality that makes it a top pick!

Mar 27, 2024

The Leica SL2-S is an attractive, premium mirrorless camera with photo and video specs that are sure to impress. And with the legendary Leica name, you know this camera exudes quality!

Mar 26, 2024
Get 600+ Pro photo lessons for $1

Forum Top Posters

Latest Articles

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is a micro four thirds camera released in 2020. It’s an entry-level system along with the OM-D E-M5 Mark III. Use this guide to determine which one is best for you!

Apr 17, 2024

Blue hour photography might not be as well known as golden hour photography, but it is every bit as good a time to create epic images of landscapes. Learn how in this quick tutorial!

Apr 17, 2024

Nikon’s retro-looking Nikon Zfc is anything but retro. Under its classic body is a host of features and amenities that make it a worthwhile compact mirrorless camera for 2024.

Apr 15, 2024

Moving from taking snapshots of your dog to creating beautiful images doesn’t have to be that difficult! Use the tips outlined in this dog photography guide, and you’ll get better results in no time.

Apr 15, 2024

Acrylic print photos are a beautiful way to display your favorite images. But they don’t come without some questions. Get all the answers you need about this medium in this guide!

Apr 15, 2024

Where do you get your landscape photography inspiration? Is it from masters like Ansel Adams? Or perhaps viewing art from other genres? We’ve got these and a few other sources for you to check out!

Apr 10, 2024

The Canon EOS R50 is one of the newest R-system cameras from Canon. Is it worth your money? Find out all the details you need to know in this comprehensive review.

Apr 10, 2024

Too often, affordable online printing companies don’t meet your expectations of what a print should look like. But there are some choices that combine affordability with superb quality!

Apr 09, 2024