24mm or not ?

[antonynorthcutt]

This may sound like a bit of a no brainer, but I'm in need of some stern advice !! I'm thinking about buying a second hand 24mm lens. I have 35 & 50mm primes, and a 11-16mm Wide Angle, but just somehow feel I need something to fill the gap.

I don't take fancy shots just day to day life photography.

Am I just being pedantic with my desires, or should I buy the 24mm ?

I'm wondering if anyone has any similar experiences ?

me

[NgaiHill]

What sort of a camera do you have? And why do you want a prime lens specifically? If all you want is "something to fill the gap" why not get a zoom lens - something like a 18-55mm?

[antonynorthcutt]

I have a d5000.

I have an 18-55mm but it's getting a little like me, worn ! Keeps slipping in and out of focus. I also really enjoy the fact that a prime lens makes us work for the shot, It's like creating art, not just taking a picture.

My concern is that there isn't such a difference between the 35mm and the 24mm ?

me

[SwissJon]

Originally Posted by antonynorthcutt

My concern is that there isn't such a difference between the 35mm and the 24mm ?

Yes there is.. 24mm is 30% shorter than 35mm, so you get a 30% wider field of view..

However if you have a D5000, the 24mm AF-D 2.8 doesn't autofocus on that camera.

[tyasa81]

which 24 mm are you talking about? the sigma 24/1.8 might autofocus... have to read up on it again though... if you are talking about the 24/2.8afd then no it wont autofocus... if you are talking about 24/1.4 afs... then that lens is a wow!

[antonynorthcutt]

it's the 2.8/24mm for sure, and AF ?? Who uses AF ... not me But the 30% extra is interesting to consider .. oh what a conundrum !!

[antonynorthcutt]

Nikon lens that is ! Not Sigma

[jamesev]

This might sound like a daft idea but instead of 3 primes how about a 24-70mm f2.8

[tyasa81]

alright then if af is of no concern to you... i like the 24 focal as well on a crop... its like a 35 on ff for that natural look... wide enough for context but minimal distortion... a pj style if you will..

[antonynorthcutt]

I keep looking at the 24-70, and everyone says I should carry one in my bag, but the thought of 1,000 euro means I'd have to sell everything else in my bag !!!

I'm moving slowly towards the 24mm I think, does anyone else wanna give me one more push ?

I think my worry that it would be too wide is a kinda silly one really, sometimes I just need some good advice from experts like you !!