Sony DT 1.8/50mm SAM - crosspost

[Seeking~Zen]

I just picked up a Sony 1.8/50 Sam lens on sale to round out my kit (have 18-55 and 75-300).
http://www.lenstip.com/index.php?tes...wu&test_ob=168

I'm fairly new to DLSRs and thought this might be a good lens for portraits and better macro shots. When I got it home, I was disappointed that the lens angle wasnt very wide and that it was a fixed lens (I didnt handle it in the store)

I'm wondering if I should return it for something with zoom abilities and/or better marco capabilities. Can anyone recommend a good, affordable lens with wide aperture and suitable for both portrait & macro work? (Is there such a thing?)

[OsmosisStudios]

You're looking for several different lenses all wrapped up.

Macro lenses are fixed focal length lenses. Have to be. Most are f/2.8 or slower. While f/2.8 is faster than your kit lens, it's still not portrait apertures. f/1.8 (like the 50 you've purchased) is much better suited to that, but it doesnt do "close ups" or "macro" very well.

Frankly, a fast 50 is a staple in almost every camera bag. And unless you need dedicated macro capabilities, a macro lens wont help you much. You'll eventually get used to the fixed focal length.

[Seeking~Zen]

thanks much for the reply. I played with it on the weekend and quite like it.
feeling foolish asking such a question now...