Ducati Monster Forum

I just inherited a D50 with the Nikkor 18-200 DX-VR lens and a SB-600 strobe.  The 18-200 is a pretty good lens, but I have always liked shooting with a fast "normal" lens and have been looking at options.  It's come down to either the AF-S 35mm f/1.8 G, or the newer AF-S 50mm f/1.8G  (there is also the AF 50mm f/1.8 D which sells for beer money, but not sure it auto-focuses on the D50...still researching that).

Any users of these lenses in DMF-ville willing to give their opinions?  As if anyone here is shy about sharing their opinion.   [laugh]

We have a DSLR Nikon D-?? Something

I haven't the foggiest clue what you said up there

For all I know that is the chemical formula for raisins

But I do have an uninformed opinion that I am more than wiling to share

What was the question again?

I've got a D90 with the Nikkor 18-55 it came with, and a 55-300. So I haven't used either of those you mentioned.

55mm seems to be the same "zoom" as what your eye sees (if you just boxed it off and didn't have the same field of view).

What sort of shooting do you plan to do most? I think the 35 would be better if you're going to be close-ish to your subject, such as indoors. For farther shots outdoors maybe the 50.

No worries Jacob...here,have another beer... [drink]

I have a D70.  I use my old 35mm designed Quantaray 50mm f2.8 (store brand, possibly made by Sigma) that is fantastic.  Original price was $200.  The D50 is likely compatible with a wide array of older lenses.

Here's a coupe links to help determine compatibility:
http://www.nikonians.org/nikon/slr-lens.html (http://www.nikonians.org/nikon/slr-lens.html)

http://www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/compatibility-lens.htm (http://www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/compatibility-lens.htm)

PM me with any specific questions.  I run a D70 with nothing but old 35mm Lenses.  I've got an AWESOME 35-105mm f2.8 82mm dia. lens that is an 80s model 35mm lens.  Works great on my D70. I don't thing the D50 is very different.

JM

Pass one this way because I was in that clueless club too.
Shamefully, I have a D90 and don't do it justice. 
I do know the lens is 18-200.  It takes pretty pictures.   ;)   

Have fun with it!     [thumbsup]

You're in luck, Wikipedia says "The D50 is the only entry-level Nikon DSLR to have the autofocus motor ('screw drive') built into the camera body" so you can get that 50mm D lens.  I have it, it's amazingly sharp, but be aware that it's 75mm on your crop-sensor camera.  When I was shooting a D70s I found it to be too long for many purposes, but if you know that and want that, you'll love the lens.  Especially for the price.

I also have the reasonably priced 35mm F2, which is nice but not as razor-sharp as the 50mm.  I believe the 35mm F1.8 you mentioned is a DX lens, so in the event you upgrade to an FX (full size) sensor, it won't be coming with you. Something to keep in mind...  It made a big difference when I upgraded to a D700.

Thanks for the input folks!!

Ordered the less expensive 1.8D, filter and hood from Adorama.

lemme know if you're interested in the 35mm 1.8... i may part w/ mine (and i'm local to you).

(i woulda offered you my 50mm 1.8D, too, but it looks like you already ordered one.)

Groovy!  Let me see what the 50mm looks like and I may just take you up on the offer.  Maybe arrange to meet for a ride and I can compare bot lenses back to back.

Thanks Derby!

Nothing to add but my thanks for pointing out something else I need to blow another couple hundred dollars on. Anybody have a 50mm G lens they want to get rid of?