Today is a sad day. As I went to turn the focus ring on my 50mm 1.8 and it just broke. I got if from Adorama via Amazon. I know that is is a cheap plastic frame but I've only had it for 4 months so I'm a little upset. I don't think the 1 year warranty is going to cover my 50mm because it states that it doesn't cover wear and tear. (Either way Adorama is closed until the 15th for passover)
I want a good 50mm for indoor portraits but I'm afraid to get another 50 mm 1.8. Even if it's cheap and a good deal I don't want to keep putting $100 dollars into one every few months. I've also heard a lot about issues with the 50mm 1.4 but I have heard that it's significantly better quality too. I guess what I'm asking is for a start up portrait photographer like me should I just return the 85mm in exchange for the 50mm 1.4?. I'm also thinking that if I had the 85mm and just got another the 50mm 1.8 that I would use the 85mm more and maybe the 50 mm 1.8 wouldn't get so bent out of shape the next time around.
I'll be doing mostly outdoor portraits but for example I'm booked to take some photos at a graduation and I'm afraid of the crop on the 85 being too much for pics with his family. Also any recommendations for some more versatile lens's under $500 would be greatly appreciated.
I'm shooting with a T2i by the way
I'm still in learning so advice would be greatly appreciated!
I recently got the 50mm 1.8 so far no problems. I love it! But these discussions gave me somethings to think about for future purchases. Hope this helps!
I'm using the 50mm 1.4 and it's really sharp. it isn't an L lens so it doesn't come with the normal weather seal and focussing is slow under poor light conditions but i don't suppose this will be an issue with portraitures anyway... this is the lens that's on my camera most of the time and it's lasted me 2 years to date. hope this helps...
@artstartraveler There is always the Sigma alternative to the Canon - it gets quite good reviews for its image quality and sharpness - although it can be a little hit and miss for its focussing (or so I have read) - although I have never had that problem. I use one on my camera a good deal of the time for indoor low light shots and like the results. It is a big heavy lens - heavier than the Canon alternative and is sharp around 1.8 to 2. I have used it for my pet portraits if you want to take a look. I also got mine second hand and saved a bit of money. Just something else to consider. Cheers Kelly
I'd try to persuade them it should be covered under warranty. 4 months isn't wear and tear, the way I look at it, unless you've been rough with it.
My parents, for example, had their car gearbox die 100miles outside of warranty and got it replaced free cos it shouldn't have died anyway. So I reckon it's always worth trying.
Yeah, Rachael @wormentude is right, 4-months isn't a wear-and-tear issue. It's a manufacturing defect. Warranty, dude, use it to your advantage. The nifty fifty is a handy lens and a clever addition to your kit.
Thanks guys. You have given me a lo to think about. Now I'm thinking about keeping with 85mm 1.8 for my outdoor portraits and playing with my kit lens a bit to decide it I want a 35mm or 50mm next. I got an email this morning and it looks like the 50mm 1.8 will be covered under warranty. I just need to find the original box. So that should be fun. Thanks for all of the helpful info :)
Just to update you guys. Canon is super awesome. They didn't give me any hassle. I don't even need the original box!!! I just send it in with the receipt and they will repair or replace the 50 mm 1.8. So I guess that's what I plan on doing. However if the 50 mm 1.8 breaks on me again I will spend the extra money to invest in the 50mm 1.4 without hesitation. My opinion is that even though 50 mm 1.8 is affordable how many $100 purchases do would you really want to put into over the years, before sucking it up and going with the sturdier 1.4. Thanks again.
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My parents, for example, had their car gearbox die 100miles outside of warranty and got it replaced free cos it shouldn't have died anyway. So I reckon it's always worth trying.
Thanks guys. You have given me a lo to think about. Now I'm thinking about keeping with 85mm 1.8 for my outdoor portraits and playing with my kit lens a bit to decide it I want a 35mm or 50mm next. I got an email this morning and it looks like the 50mm 1.8 will be covered under warranty. I just need to find the original box. So that should be fun. Thanks for all of the helpful info :)