f1.4 or f1.8

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Thad

New member
Just registered to ask this question. I am looking for a 50mm lens, B&H has two options f1.8 for $220, and f1.4 for $440. Is it really worth $220 for the 0.4 difference? I don't know what this actually represents in aperture opening, speed, and bokeh. Will I be able to get a lot more light between 1.4 and 1.8?

Thank you.

Thad
 
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Deezey

Senior Member
Honestly it really wont make that much of a difference in low light shooting. 1.4 lenses are also not a forgiving lens to shoot. The extremely narrow DoF means obtaining focus and keeping focus is critical.

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BackdoorArts

BackdoorArts

Senior Member
I think you're talking about 1/2 stop if I remember correctly - maybe a little less (1/3?). More light? Yes. Significantly more? Let's just say that it probably won't "save" a shot you couldn't get with the f/1.8. As Deezey said, those comparisons are more about bokeh and depth of field. Personally, I like my f/1.8g, and the extra money in my pocket.
 
Horoscope Fish

Horoscope Fish

Senior Member
Thad said:
Just registered to ask this question. I am looking for a 50mm lens, B&H has two options f1.8 for $220, and f1.4 for $440. Is it really worth $220 for the 0.4 difference? I don't know what this actually represents in aperture opening, speed, and bokeh. Will I be able to get a lot more light between 1.4 and 1.8?
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I have the 50mm f/1.8 and I've had the opportunity to shoot with a couple 50mm f/1.4's and I can't tell the difference between the two on my D7100. Some people swear the bokeh is better on the 1.4 but I couldn't see it, personally. Poking around a bit I found this comparison article and based on my limited experience with the f/1.4 I'd agree with it on all points.

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LensWork

Senior Member
The difference is 2/3 of one stop, not a tremendous amount. Save the extra cash and put it toward other accessories like a shoe-mount flash, tripod, etc.
 
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DraganDL

Senior Member
Buy two pieces of 50mm f/1.8. - you buy one..and then you decide to buy yet another one - that's how you're gonna love this lens (I've got three "standard" lenses: /made in USSR/ m42 screw mount 58mm f/2, Nikon AF 50mm f/1.8D, and Nikon AF-S 50mm f/1.8G). All the three are GREAT lenses, each one being slightly different than the others... Seriously: since you've got a D90 I recommend AF 50mm f/1.8D (can be purchased for less than 100$; no motor inside - AF system driven by camera body's motor).
 
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PapaST

Senior Member
Yeah, I think part of the equation is how much is $220 worth to you? For some it's a sizable amount. To others it's a drop in the bucket. Knowing this would help your decision. It's a little bit apples to oranges but I own the 1.8G and 1.4D (not the G). I gravitate to the 1.4D but can't really see a big difference and I'm very satisfied with both.
 
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Mike D90

Senior Member
For the same money, $440, I would buy the 50mm f/1.8 "D" lens and the Nikon AF Nikkor 28-105mm "D" lens and have two of the sharpest lenses Nikon made.


I own both by the way and love them with my D90.
 
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Thad

New member
Thanks all, this was very helpful. I am getting ready for a trip and needed some answers quick. I truly appreciate the great answers and it all gives me a warm welcome. I look forward to getting involved here and learning more.

f1.8 it is!
 
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Thad

New member
Mike D90 said:
For the same money, $440, I would buy the 50mm f/1.8 "D" lens and the Nikon AF Nikkor 28-105mm "D" lens and have two of the sharpest lenses Nikon made.


I own both by the way and love them with my D90.
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Thanks, although, I don't think my wife will like your advice. But you gave me some homework, looking into D vs DX.
 
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Thad

New member
Horoscope Fish said:
I have the 50mm f/1.8 and I've had the opportunity to shoot with a couple 50mm f/1.4's and I can't tell the difference between the two on my D7100. Some people swear the bokeh is better on the 1.4 but I couldn't see it, personally. Poking around a bit I found this comparison article and based on my limited experience with the f/1.4 I'd agree with it on all points.


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That article was perfect, thanks!
 
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