If I have a 18-200mm 4-5.6 digital camera lens is there any need to get a 50mm lens? 50mm 2.8?
Would I just be wasting money or is the 50mm totally different and gives extremely better quality of peoples faces?
Im using a nikon d80
there are several reasons you might want a 50 mm prime.
1. It’s a great portrait range for a digital SLR with a 1.5 or 1.6 magnification factor.
2. Prime lenses are usually sharper, simply because there are fewer moving parts.
3. (and this one might be the most important!) By using one lens such as the 50 mm, you will begin to appreciate the finer points about field of view, perspective, depth of focus, and composition in ways that are nearly impossible if the only lens you’ve ever used is a zoom.
Why? Because when you have to walk to get closer or farther away, you tend to think more about those critical factors. And, as a result, you just mght become a better photographer.
Remember, zoom lenses are a relatively new phenomenon.And until very recently, many professionals wouldn’t be caught dead using one.
I was a photographer for 25 years before I got my first zoom.
So, if you’re serious about developing your skills as a photographer, sure, getting and learning to use a 50 mm prime might be very useful.
Caveat: there does, however, seem to be a cult developing over this question – People who have become 50 mm fanatics, if you will. That’s not good either.
Truth is, it can simply be fun and educational to try something different, and expand your arsenal of tools.