Canon 28mm f1.8 or 35mm f2?

[Angelclaud]

Ok, I thought that I have pretty much decided to get the 35mm f2 lens. However, it's out of stock at 3 largest camera stores here. Apparently it's not a popular lens so stores seldom keep it in stock and if I want it I have to make a special order which will take 2-4 weeks. My camera is Rebel T3i.

I'm actually in no hurry to make the purchase and can wait but was just wondering if perhaps the 28mm f1.8 will me a better choice? It's newer and with USM. I plan on using the 28mm or 35mm as the main lens on my camera for general indoor use (when I go to restaurants, malls, etc.). Although I think it will be quite useful for outdoor use.

I'm thinking that the 28mm will give me more versatility but will it be good for environment portrait kind of shots? I'm buying the primes primarily for portraits. I have the 50mm f1.8 for a more closer portrait and thinking to get one for a more environment portrait. I'm a bit afraid of the "wide angle-portrait" problem as I'm not sure how close I can get to the subject to avoid a displeasing look of bigger nose, etc.

[PaulVI]

Hi

I have both the 28/1.8 and the 35/2. The 28mm gives me a greater angle of view that I need for taking pics of my pre-school son in his environment.

Plus, in this thread, it was suggested to me that the 28/1.8 has better optical characteristics than the 35/2. That sold me on the 28, when I dinged my 35. (I ended up having the 35 repaired anyway.)