Which lens should I get?

[princessmommy]

I am looking at getting another lens for my Rebel Xsi. I would one day like to do on location portrait photography, so I would be shooting indoors and out. Which lens would be good to start with? I want something that isn't too expensive but would still do a good job while I'm learning and practicing. Any suggestions? The only lens I have right now is the 18-55 kit lens.

Thanks - Melissa

[inkista]

EF 50mm f/1.8 II. It's about $100. Great "training wheels" lens with which to learn about fast primes and wide apertures. All of its drawbacks have to do with build and usability, and almost none of them with image quality (ok, it does only have five aperture blades, so oof highlights can sometimes take on a pentagram shape, but that's pretty much it).

[OsmosisStudios]

Originally Posted by inkista

EF 50mm f/1.8 II. It's about $100. Great "training wheels" lens with which to learn about fast primes and wide apertures. All of its drawbacks have to do with build and usability, and almost none of them with image quality (ok, it does only have five aperture blades, so oof highlights can sometimes take on a pentagram shape, but that's pretty much it).

Quoted for Truthiness.

[princessmommy]

Thank you both; I ordered that lens last night and can't wait for it to get here!

[CaptainNH]

Looks like I missed the boat with this comment, but I concur with the suggestion - enjoy your new nifty fifty when it arrives - I just love mine

[Saralonde]

And when you take a few shots with it, add one of them to this thread. Have fun!

[SusanH1970]

Originally Posted by princessmommy

Thank you both; I ordered that lens last night and can't wait for it to get here!

I was also just going to chime in and recommend this lens. I LOVE mine for portraits! Like Inkista said, with only 5 aperture blades the bokeh isn't super creamy like with other lenses, but for the price, this lens is a gem. You're going to love love LOVE it!

[thaoimage]

I just got a 50mm f1.8 prime for my canon and I love that little sucker and so will you

[princessmommy]

I'm so anxious for it to get here! I get excited each day when I check the mail...hoping it will arrive soon!