35mm or 50mm Lens

[Stirlingdesigns]

So if I were to purchase a Nikon D700 which prime lens is the best to get?? I have read and compared and re-read and I am still confused! HELP!

[lil red bird]

I had the same problem not to long ago. I picked up the 35 mm1:1.8 lens.
Why? Larger aperture and better at macro.
I know it is confusing keep searching and thinking. I looked at it from an end use perspective What pictures did i want to take then what lens is best suited to what i wanted to do. I hope this helps

[SusanH1970]

What are you mainly going to be shooting?

[Stirlingdesigns]

Portraits mostly.

I know the D700 is a full frame camera - does that make a difference as to which lens is better?

35mm can do "macro like" pictures?

Thanks for helping me wade through the confusion!

[SusanH1970]

On a full-frame for portraits, I'd actually go with the 85mm 1.8. Tack sharp lens and gorgeous bokeh.

[Stirlingdesigns]

I just read about that lens and I was wondering about that too! So much to consider it makes my head swim!

[SusanH1970]

Originally Posted by Stirlingdesigns

I just read about that lens and I was wondering about that too! So much to consider it makes my head swim!

Well, if you don't buy one for yourself, feel free to buy me the Canon version.

[Swisstony10]

I'd go with a 50 or an 85 for general portrait work. The 50 means you have to get a little bit closer, but I quite like working up close with my subject, it makes the shoot feel more personal. The 50 is also a little bit more versatile for taking out and using in other low-light situations (don't get me wrong, the 85 is just as good in low-light, it's just not as versatile a focal length)..

Admittedly, I'm talking about the Canon equivalents, but the principles of focal length and aperture are the same..

Incidentally, I did a portrait lighting workshop last year, and used my >£100 Canon 50mm 1.8. The pictures are lovely - really crisp and sharp and spot-on. The guy who ran the course was using a >£1500 Canon 85mm L-series lens, which he let those of us who were interested do a few shots with. I have to say that considering the enormous hike in price, it's pretty much impossible to tell the difference between the two. I guess the quality of the really expensive lenses shows itself more when you're not in such a well-controlled, perfectly-lit, perfectly exposed environment...

Russ.

[OsmosisStudios]

If you've had a DX camera, and used a 50mm on there, then the 85 would suit you best. For portraits, especially on FX, 35mm is far too short. (and no, it isnt capable of "macro-like", only closeup as the MFD is fairly short).

The 85/1.8 or /1.4 would be great, but if you're serious about portraits, go for broke and get the 105 f/2 DC

[NathanCH]

Can't go wrong with Nikkor 50mm F1.4. Best for portraits. Amazing Bokeh and huge aperture.