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I've had my D40 for over 3 years now and only have 2 lenses; the standard 18-55mm and a sigma 70-300mm. i was wondering because its a dx chip what my next lens should be for wedding photos?
Im considering either:
50mm 1.8
50mm 1.4
35mm 1.8
what one would suit my d40 better for weddings?
On a DX sensor - the 50mm might be too long a focal length for some indoor shots.
You are probably better off with the 35mm and cropping as need be.
Also assuming you need the AF-S for your d40 - the 50 1.4 will be much more expensive than the other two
Really both the 50mm 1.4 & 35mm 1.8. The 35 will be good for wedding party shots and the 50 will give you better portrait shots and reach if you need it.
Very little chance on getting the new 50mm 1.8 since it was just released but if you can then go for that.
Hi,
Actually, I'd sell the 18-55 and get the 18-105. ;-)
Depending upon your venue (outside? inside?), you might find that lens would satisfy most of your needs.
As for your list, I tend to use both the 35 and 50 a lot. I have them both in 1.8, and _rarely_ would I _ever_ shoot more open than that - too much would be far out of focus. If you're shooting people, you will likely want to maintain some focus in their faces and bodies, even when shooting shallow DOF.
I have, on occasion thought that extra 1/3, 2/3 stop would matter, but I don't think I have missed it. There is something to say for the bokeh, but the savings also talk.
Frankly, I would certainly would recommend saving the extra money and go for an f1.8 (on a side note - and the opposite side of my recommendation, the wider aperture would be a somewhat faster focusing lens, and a brighter viewfinder for the money you'd spend - that's you _real_, not imagined advantage).
For a portrait lens, I'd opt for the 50mm 1.8; if you're outside, the 18-105 or 18-55 will likely cover most of your shots.
You'll need a lot of flash; two SB900s should be on your plate, which is more than the lenses you're looking at. ;-)
My best,
Mike
Mike, Why do I need a lot of flash? and two SB900's for one camera :/ seems a bit much.
POW
You are not shooting weddings professionally, yes?
Here's what I suggest you to do. Get 35mm 1.8 or Nikon SB600 or Nikon SB700. Learn to use flash properly and that will be much more useful than getting another lens for shooting weddings.
Otherwise get 35mm 1.8 and have fun.
Hi all,
Is it wedding or weddings? I saw weddings, and multiple flash is one of the best ways to stand out and make sure that you can light your groups properly especially using Nikon's Creative Lighting System. I have several flashes and use them all.
Again, if it's a friend's wedding and a 'one of', perhaps go with what you have.
My best,
Mike
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