So when I opened my camera bag yesterday, I discovered that my 50mm was now a two-sie. The front glass elements had separated themselves from the rest of the lens. I don’t know why but I also don’t really care since this thing was about $80 US and you can find them anywhere.
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However, I have decided that I should probably go with something more…substantial and began looking at other lenses in the same f-stop range. I’m definitely going with a prime and not a zoom since I enjoy the superior quality of most fixed lenses and the spectacular bokeh that the 50mm gave at f1.8. However, the framework for the Mk.II was entirely plastic so it was only a matter of time until it broke somewhere.
The frontrunner is obviously the Canon 50mm f1.4, which is significantly more expensive at around $350 US including shipping. I’ve tried it out before and the build quality is sturdy and the f1.4 allows you to shoot in some seriously low light. The depth of field is tiny which is useful sometimes when you really need to focus on only one element but sometimes it’s a bit annoying.
The Sigma 30mm f1.4 is another good option since the shorter length will probably be more flexible considering my Canon 20D’s 1.6x lens factor. It’s a bit more expensive at $400 US plus shipping but that’s a small price to pay. The problem is that being a Sigma, there are fewer reviews online and also, you’ll probably lose all your money to depreciation.
The last option is a Canon 24mm f1.8L, which is even wider and probably very well built, being an L series lens. However, at $1200, it’s also the most expensive and, well, I already have a Canon EF-S 10-22mm lens that almost covers that range already (even if it is a f4.5).
So for anyone who knows their photography…got any other suggestions?
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Are you sure it didn’t break because you were trying to zoom in on a set of boobs and the girl smacked it?
Considering how it’s not a zoom and I’d have to get really close since it’s only 50mm…
…yes, maybe that was why…
The thing I don’t like about a prime 50mm is that with my camera, it’s like an 80mm… That kinda sucks as a prime
But if you just want to mess around with a really low f-stop, this is definitely worth the $80
I would highly recommend the Tamron 28mm-75mm F2.8. I think its around the $300 price range.
The pics are super sharp and gives a great focal length range to complement your 10mm – 22mm.
If you liked the 50 1.8 mk2 (plastic), you can try looking for a mk1 50 1.8 which is not made of plastic. With that said, if you get a different lens, its always nice to have the 50 1.8 in your camera bag since its so cheap.
What other lenses do you have in your collection, your seems identical to mine
I have the 50 1.8mk2, the 10-22, and the kit lens 18-55. I plan on picking up the 70-200 2.8IS but it will be awhile since that thing is so pricey
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