Great for portraits
I've owned this lens for just over a year now. My other lens is a 17-85mm, and while I use that one when I go outdoors and/or want a wider range, I keep the 50mm on my camera about 90% of the time. These days I'm mostly taking pictures of my 10month old son, and this lens is fabulous for that. Allows me to take great clear, crisp shots indoors with low-ish light. I'll agree it might not be as nice as the 1.4, but for 1/3 the price that's to be expected. If you can afford to go higher, then sure, buy the 1.4 or another more expensive lens. But if you're strapped for cash and want/need a great lens for portraits and close-ups, this is the lens for you.
Pleasantly surprised
I was a bit apprehensive given the quality remarks, but with all the glowing reviews I bought. I took the lens along on a recent vacation and found that I was using it for most of my shots based on the great results. I keep it protected when not in use, no big deal. The camera feels kinda of weird with such a short lens but the shots speak for themselves.
much better than the stock camera lens
Let me start by saying that I'm a completely new to digital slr photography. That being said even for someone like me the difference between a stock lens that you get with the digital rebel vs this lens is quite noticeable. You don't need to be a pro to appreciate this lens.
I did a very simple set of tests that involved mounting the camera on a tripod and taking multiple pictures of the same item (a toolbox) with both the stock 18-55mm lens and the 50mm prime lens. I set the focal length to 50mm and I changed the ISO settings from 100 all the way to 1600 for each lens with the same 5.6 aperture settings. Then I compared the photos side by side. Even fully zoomed out I could see the difference in the photos though someone just ... Read More
Noisy, loud, but for $85, I'm not going to complain.
Yes, its noisy, loud, and sometimes slow. But for a f1.8 aperture, for being lightweight, its worth $85 for sure. Great for a beginner photographer like I am to use this to try different shots with a prime lens. As others have noted, construction is plastic, but if I break it, drop it, or whatever, I won't be heartbroken.
Good lens, Great price!!
I bought this lens because it was highly recommended because of quality. I was not disappointed. It takes good pictures in low light situations and is an awesome portrait lens.
