Help me choose!

[kendallt]

I know there's been a billion camera lens threads over the years, so please don't run away! I need help picking out a new lens for my birthday. The bf got me a Nikon camera for Christmas, rendering my small collection of Canon lenses useless. I previously had a 50 mm 1.8 and an inexpensive zoom lens (I think it was the 75-300 mm). I'd like something similar, though I can probably only choose one at this point. The zoom lens would be nice for my daughter's sporting events, but I'm sure I'd use the prime lens more often. Thoughts?

[mrsashbaugh]

I've been wanting a 50 mm lens for awhile now. I do have the 75-300 mm which is nice for my sons sporting events and concerts. Both are great but I'd say 50 mm as you are sure to use it more often. Good luck with choosing!

[Nikki Epperson]

I'm no help because I barely use my big camera anymore, but when I used it regularly, I really wanted a 35mm!

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[Saar]

I have a 50mm 1.8 lens for my DSLR. It's the best lens I got and I love it. But I should remind myself to use my DSLR more often.

[kendallt]

Thanks for the replies so far! I *think* I'm going to go with a prime lens for now. The question is...50 or 35 mm?

[Nettio]

35! I had a 30 for my crop body and a 35 for my full frame now and it's pretty much all I use. So versatile and I figure it's much easier to crop in in Photoshop than to zoom out. I have a 50 too but I almost never use it.

[KingsQueen82]

I have both a 50mm and a 35mm and I, too,use the 35 more often.

[eranslow]

I think I must be in the minority. I don't like my 50 mm. Didn't feel like it helped captured what I wanted. I loved it for portraits though. That's about it. I currently have a 18-135 mm that I love. Works well for close up and far away so it's a pretty versatile lens good luck choosing!

[Sweeet]

I have no opinion, just came to hitch-hike *lol* j/k

[Saar]

I think that if I had to choose again, I would choose the 35mm instead of a 50mm. But I do love my 50mm.

[britaneejean]

I loooove my 35! It rarely comes off my camera.


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[jak]

I think mine is 35-something??? (can't remember and its at home so I can't check it right now). I also have a 50mm. I use the 35-?? 99% of the time - more focusing options.

[mrsashbaugh]

Hmmm I'll have to check out the 35 now lol.

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[misfitinmn]

Add me to the 35 club! I love my 50mm in certain circumstances. Actually I rented I think a 24 or 28 over Christmas (I can't remember exactly) that was even BETTER than the 35, but also like ... an extra lot more money.

[angiepangie]

I'm another who prefers my 35mm. My 50mm never felt quite 'right', but it was love the moment I got my 35mm. Now if I would just get the DSLR out more often!

[clucaswvu04]

So I'm another odd ball, hated my 50 - so much that I sold it. It never got used. I LOVE my 35 and love my 85 for prime lenses.

[bcgal00]

I find the 35 more versatile than the 50 when indoors. If you get a zoom, the 75-300 is very affordable, lightweight and of decent quality. I use mine a lot. Or you might consider a 24-70, I've got the Nikon one but I hear the Tamron is also very good and cheaper than the Nikon

[kendallt]

You guys are awesome! Thank you so much for all the suggestions!

[kristalund]

what camera body do you have? what is your budget?

[kendallt]

Originally Posted by kristalund

what camera body do you have? what is your budget?

I have a Nikon D3300. I believe the bf's budget is around $200-300, though I'm not entirely sure.

[bcgal00]

Also, check for used lenses in your area too. Your local camera shop may have used lenses and they may have a forum for used equipment too (ours does). Craigs List is good too, you just have to be sure to fully inspect and try out the lens. I've been able to buy a couple of lenses on CL for at least 1/3 to 1/2 off the retail price (such as my 75-300), I think I got it used for $125.