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Photography Question 

Robert P.
 

Choice of Prime Lenses


I am looking to purchase a 50mm Nikon AFD prime lense. I am a beginner photographer and my question is, should I buy a 1.8f or a 1.4f? The 1.4f is considerably more money. Is there much difference between the two with regards to being able to shoot in dim lighting? Thank in advance for your time.


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October 01, 2002

 

Tom Darmody
  [quote] is there much difference between the two with regards to being able to shoot in dim lighting?[/quote]

1.8-1.4--It doesn't sound like much of difference, but it's actually a huge advantage. With the 1.4 you'll be able to photograph in about half as much light as you would with 1.8.


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October 02, 2002

 

Robert P.
  Thanks Tom D. That is just the sort of info I am looking for. Being new to photography I really had very little idea as to how much difference it would make.


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October 02, 2002

 

Jim Covill
  True enough an F1.4 offers up a little over a half stop and can make the difference in low light. Also, manufacturers have been known to make a better optical quality 50mm f1.4 than the 'amateur' f2, f1.7 that is in the package deal. Check out some of the on-line lens reviews, just for fun.


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November 11, 2002

 

Ricky Knack
  I had the same question, and after much serious debate I opted for the 1.8, and couldn't be happier... The decisive argument was not in how fast the lens was, but in depth of field, and in essence how slow the lens would go. The 1.4 went to f16, the 1.8 to f22. True being able to shoot a half stop faster is beneficial in some instances (you can always push the film), but I like the effect of extremes in motion on film too, without having to add filters. Just my $.02


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November 11, 2002

 

Robert P.
  Thank you both Ricky and Jim, I am still looking and I think I am leaning towrds the Nikon 50mm 1.8D lense. I realize that I will be losing a bit of speed but for the price and what I will be using it for, I can live with it. Any other responses would be appreciated.
Robert P.


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November 11, 2002

 
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