17/02/2026 8:06 pm
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I’ve been shooting with my Nikon D7500 and the standard 18-55mm kit lens for a while, but I’m really looking to get that nice, blurry background and sharper details that only a prime lens can offer. I mostly enjoy street photography and taking portraits of my family. I’ve heard great things about the Nikon 35mm f/1.8G DX as a standard choice, but I’m also considering a 50mm for tighter shots, though I'm worried it might feel too zoomed-in on a crop sensor. Since I’m on a bit of a budget, I want to make sure my first prime is a versatile one. Between the 35mm and 50mm focal lengths, which one do you think is the best 'all-rounder' for a DX body?
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17/02/2026 8:07 pm
sooo i totally get the struggle! when i first started out with my d7500, i was stuck in the same 35 vs 50 debate. honestly, i bought the 50mm first because i wanted those blurry backgrounds for shots of my kids, but i quickly realized it was way too tight for indoor stuff or just walking around the city. i was constantly backing into walls just to fit everyone in the frame lol. here is my breakdown for a budget-friendly start: * Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G: this is 100% the best all-rounder. it gives u a "normal" field of view on your dx body. it’s usually around $175-200 brand new, but u can find them used for like $120. seriously, the best bang for your buck.
* Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G: amazing for portraits, but it feels like a 75mm on your camera. great bokeh, but less versatile for street stuff. basically, go with the 35mm first. it stays on my camera 90% of the time cuz it just works for everything. gl!!
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17/02/2026 8:40 pm
In my experience, the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G is the winner. The Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G is cool for portraits but maybe too tight for street stuff? You'd be backing up constantly!! The 35mm is basically the perfect all-rounder cuz it's cheap and fits more in. I'm really satisfied with mine so don't overthink it... best choice for ur first prime imo!
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17/02/2026 8:50 pm
Nice, didn't know that
