do you even need another lens?

Hey photographer - have a nifty fifty lens? It's a 50mm photography lens available for Canon, Nikon, Sony - pretty much every brand. Great for portraits, weddings, landscapes and much more!
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The best lens for wedding photography is quite possibly the best lens for portrait photography. People usually think the best lens for photography is the same as the best lens for bokeh but when you learn wedding photography or portrait photography you find that may not be true. A low aperture lens does give great photography ideas for beautiful bokeh from a lens. My favorite is the Canon 50mm 1.2, but the new RF 50mm 1.8 is a close second (some might say that's the best lens for Canon shooters even). What's your best lens for portraits or best wedding photography tips?
Finally answering the number one question I get asked "what's your favorite lens?" or "If you only had one lens to shoot with at a wedding, what would it be?" It's the same answer for both, and I even go into how to use a 50mm lens for wedding photography with individuals, couples, groups, and more.
Here's why I think the Canon 50mm is the Best Lens for Photography (For EVERYTHING use). Find out the best Canon lenses for portrait and wedding photography.
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This is about 50mm lens, the best lens for wedding photography in 50mm lens photography with bokeh. A nifty fifty lens by Vanessa Joy using 50mm 1.2 50mm 1.4 that is the best lens for photography, the best lens for bokeh, the best canon lens for portrait photography, the best canon rf lenses, the best canon rf lens for portraits, and 50mm 1.8, also the best canon lens, the best canon lens for portraits and the best canon lens for wedding photography With wedding photography tips, learn wedding photography, wedding photography tutorial and more.
#bestlens #weddingphotography #portraitlens

[@georgecastro4188]

I have a question for you? I assume you're shooting full frame? If you are my opinion is an 85mm lens would be much better for your head shots! Depending on how close you are you will get some distortion using a 50mm for your head shots!

[@VanessaJoy]

I do now but the 50 was still my most used lens on a cropped sensor as well - the 85 is actually my favorite lens for headshots bc of the compression you mentioned - but we’ll get to that in another video 😉

[@markrigg6623]

How can the 85 be good if you dont use it? You use a 50mm for everything remember.

[@VanessaJoy]

Lol I do use it for everything, that doesn’t mean I use it for everything every time. It’s just versatile enough that I can use it for everything (except macro - and groups of 56 people in a small space. 😉

[@penboyasgod6103]

Yes, but a good 85-105mm Zoom would be ideal so you could frame an individual much easier.

[@andrewasher2201]

So still confused. It is helpful to speak in terms of full frame equivalents. I know that being a aps-c shooter, I can see why you would have a 50mm be a all in 1 wedding shoot. Your samples images of stepping back seem like you would be pretty far back. I love the 50-55mm on apsc for street bc you rarely disturb your subject.

[@rezzab]

I’m 79, I’ve been a photographer since I was about sixteen, in my film days the only lens I used was a 50mm and the results are great, now I’m digital I have a few cameras with several lenses but my most used camera is my lovely Leica M9 with just a 50mm lens.

[@VanessaJoy]

Barrie Marshall so fun!!

[@lescobrandon3047]

I too am 79 and remember when we called the 50mm lens a “Sneaker Zoom”. Want a closer angle, move closer.

[@freeman12321]

@@lescobrandon3047 funny

[@saundramcbridephotography6249]

I ❤️ my 50mm. It's a work horse and has never let me down. I'm so glad you made this video, thanks.

[@VanessaJoy]

SUCH a work horse right?

[@HullioGQ]

50 mm lens was what we were forced to have in my Photography class in college. Learning composition and lighting took precedence over glass. Best class I ever took.

[@VanessaJoy]

Wow that is SUCH a good idea.

[@GRIANMEDIA]

Beautiful. I used to think just that, until I went 35mm and I feel more liberated.

[@VanessaJoy]

Haha I could see that for sure - gives you that little extra breathing room

[@carmenfissenden2530]

Vanessa , I concur . 50mm is a great prime to begin with as a general go anywhere lens . Some prefer 35mm , but I am with you and grew up with 55 mm as my first prime and preferring the slightly longer end of 50 mm , I keep a 60mm on my camera . This works great for general travel and portraits , with a 120 mm for more general model shoots . Anything wider and I grab the phone and use it’s 28 mm . I can only encourage more people to use the 50mm perspective that ranges from 50 - 60 in full frame terms . These lenses often have apertures from 1.2 to 2.8.

[@ronspi]

I love my 50mm (F1.8 and F1.4) for the Nikon. I use it on both, the full frame and the APS-C cameras and even having a 75mm equivalent where you have to step back to capture the image, is worth the quality. 50mm is the optimal eye sight in terms of field of view. This is the most comfortable range of detail the eye can see at once, so duplicating it while taking picture is a plus. I like your flow. Very nice pace and you don't speak in up-talk manner, which is great.

[@VanessaJoy]

I like that perspective... comfortable range of detail

[@ronspi]

@@VanessaJoy Subscribed.

[@onlysublime]

my skills as a photographer are far below yours but you're an inspiration. In any case, I've never captured any beautiful images with my 50 mm 1.8. It was my very first lens. I know, it's a budget lens but I got it because everyone was raving about "nifty 50" and how the lens I picked as the best bang for buck. I have never had anybody really say any of my 50 mm pics was amazing. I've tried the 50 mm 1.4. And the 50 mm 1.2. None produced that magical shot. Then I slowly added lenses to my collection. But the first lens that drew gasps and awe was the 85 mm 1.8. I wouldn't even try that hard and it produced gorgeous images. People thought I suddenly got better as a photographer but I didn't really do anything different. From then on, I became a huge 85 mm fan. My favorite lens in my collection is the EF 85 mm 1.4. It's very fast to focus, has image stabilization, and produces very sharp images. I had tried the EF 85 1.2 and never was able to capture good images with it because it was so slow to focus and it didn't have image stabilization. I'm not a tripod shooter and I don't have the steadiest capabilities. I thought the 70-200 2.8 mark II would be the dream lens but I borrowed a friend's and while it was good, it required more skill than I had. I desperately want to try the new RF 85 mm. for the wider shots, I prefer around 24-35 mm. And for most things, the 85 mm. I do really want to get a 135 mm. anyway, love your channel and hope it grows as fast as it deserves to.

[@AlfredoHernandez472]

I totally agree! The 3 go-to lenses in my Bag are the 35, 50, and 85. But the one that's used the most is the 50mm 1.4 and It's always come through like a champ. I still own zoom lenses but they are mostly ornaments in my bag these days. Great video Thanks Vanessa!

[@VanessaJoy]

Haha ornaments. Lol

[@v3rlon]

I tend to think of the nifty fifty (fantastic plastic) as the 50mm f1.8. You can get these for most cameras for less than $200 new if shopping around. Canon and Nikon DSLRs and Sony all have these. The 50mm f1.2 or 1.4 is usually quite a bit more money and quite a bit larger. The mirrorless cameras for Nikon and Canon have more expensive lenses. Also note that sensor size matters. The 50mm field of view on a full frame camera is like about 35mm on an APSC camera or 25mm on a micro 4/3.

[@earthwalker4538]

I use a Nikon 50mm 1.8 and It is amazing. I use it for everything. So much more crisp than my zoom lens i currently have and I love the slight compression and depth of field that it produces. I almost use it exclusively bc I love it so much.(and its the best one I have. 1 out of 2😜) Thank you for your wonderful videos!

[@VanessaJoy]

Shane Everett Henry my pleasure 😇 glad you like!

[@umairather8178]

Dear Im also using 50 mm but some time my setting r not good for landscape..... Missed many things pictures with blurry background 😔... Going on trip I'm afraid I will do the same cz of bad settings..... Any advice for outdoor shooting with 50mm

[@yanafridabinaev]

Agree! 50mm all the way! My fav lens! I am glad I’m not the only one😄

[@VanessaJoy]

I love it!

[@carmenfissenden2530]

I agree - the standard kit lens of old film cameras was always my go to for most jobs and now i use a 30mm on MFT , as it was the closest to my old 55mm 1.8 on film. Zooms have their place and I don’t knock them, but a good prime lens is way more versatile than a zoom because it is around f2 or faster , where the zoom is heavier and often a little slower by a stop or two , and costs way more. I have parked the bigger gear in order to feel lighter and more active . The smaller lens is often overlooked compared with even small zooms , so is harder to go unnoticed . Great video and I hope that many who view it consider switching to a standard prime to see for themselves what is so fantastic about these very affordable alternatives to a kit zoom .

[@mugshot749]

I'm a retired news agency photographer Vanessa, and they will have to prise my Canon F.D. 50mm f1.2 L lens out of my cold dead hands.

[@Mr09260]

I am so glad to have seen this Video Vanessa...I have just received my first Mirrorless camera ..Nikon Z7 and my first lens is a 50mm f1.8 Z lens .....Love the details it gets and perspective

[@VanessaJoy]

Peter Betts yay congrats!! 🎈🎊🎉🍾

[@metalwooddesign]

I'm using the same 50mm on my 5D MK IV that started it's life on a T3i. Wonderful all around lens and fast. You make a fantastic point about zooming with your feet! Thanks for the great content!

[@VanessaJoy]

So glad you like it :-)

[@rdptube]

Vanessa, I just purchased the EF 50mm f/1.8 STM (budget entered into the decision); it arrived just yesterday. Your video was great and your responses to comments even better. I went with a 50mm because an amateur astronomer said my EF 24-105MM 1:4 L IS USM wasn't fast enough for good Cosmos Shots; your video made me even more glad I did. Thanks for sharing your knowledge for us mere mortals. I have a Canon EOS 7D and have lots to learn. Your video/follow-on discussion provided a great step in that direction.

[@nlh835]

I have a Sigma 50mm 1:4 and a Canon 1:8, for my Canon 6D. I really love the 50mm!

[@VanessaJoy]

nlh835 fun!!

[@Teleken1968]

I just subscribed after your channel coming up a number of times when I was researching CaptureOne and had to laugh when I saw the title for this video. Apparently it’s not just CaptureOne we have in common - my favorite lens for my Fujifilm APS-C systems is my 35mm f2 (52mm equivalent) and my favorite for my shiny new Nikon Z6 (full frame) is their 50mm f1.8.

[@VanessaJoy]

Ken Schuller haha so fun!!! Glad to have you along :)

[@billzidis2656]

I do love my 50mm 1.4 alot.Unfortunately in some corporate events the space is so limited i use very wide angle and everyone looks like an alien :D . Otherwise 50mm 1.4 and 70-200 2.8 is my number one. Oh ! Let's don't forget the 24mm Shift lens. The prospective you get shooting couples is amazing if there is time ! Great content.I trust you will have many more subscribers soon !

[@ScottRadfordChisholm]

Thanks Ness. For many years I swayed off ye ol faithful nifty 50, but over the last year I have fallen in love with it again!!! So versatile, as you say, less weight to lug around, fast and sharp. I'm loving my nifty 50 all over again.

[@VanessaJoy]

Glad to hear it!

[@rogerdsmith]

I spent a lot of years selling photo equipment. 50 years ago, if you were buying a 35mm camera, every camera came with a 50 mm lens included. The pros always wanted to add a 35 mm and a 85/90 mm lens. That’s the classic three lens combination I owned, when I was shooting with a Leica M4.

[@yemarican]

I agree. The reason of me watching your video here is because as of an hour ago, I have decided to ONLY use the 50 mm lens for everything. Best results at all times. Zooming deteriorates the quality of the photos.

[@quazisanjeed6395]

I'm not an indoor photographer nevertheless; being a hobbyist nature photog, I have owned a 50mm 1.8 since the beginning of this wonderful pastime of mine. The current one is Canon EF 50mm 1.8 STM. I use it for capturing flowers, low-light evening cityscapes, rainy environment and occasional human portraits. Nothing like this cheap but great glass. The price difference between 1.8 and 1.4 does not seem justifiable to me.

[@VanessaJoy]

to each their own :)

[@DavidChoy]

Ah, an ode to the canon 50. Can’t get enough of these love stories and I love how this one focuses on more than the aperture! Some things I’ve learned about the Canon 50s after years with them as my go-tos. 1. 50mm is the best lens to learn on - the lower the aperture, the better the learning tool. The 1.2 is worth it compare to the 1.4. Especially for new photographers. 2. I prefer the color on the EF 50 1.2 L compare to the color on the EF 50 1.4, but one of my favorite photographers uses the cheap 50 1.8. 3. You don’t need to constantly use the 1.2 at 1.2; as this video explains, the frame and perspective are just as amazing as the aperture range on the 50. A wedding photographer that I know almost never uses the 1.2 at 1.2, but still picks up the 50 most of the time. The 50 is great for couples and groups as well as individual subjects. 4. Important: DPAF on the R and on the screen of the 5d iv and the 6d ii enable the EF 50 1.2 to focus much faster and more reliably than the optical viewfinder on the 5d iv can achieve in the dark. It’s amazing. 5. While the EF 70-200 ii,iii focuses faster in the daylight, you simply can’t use it the same way in the dark as the 50... and EF 85 is too slow, and EF 135 is too long to compare; that leaves the 50 on the EF system as THE best EF lens for dark environments with a natural perspective and a low depth of field. You might be thinking about the 35 right now. Compare to the 50, I find myself cropping in on 35mm because I have to stand further back to get the natural perspective I would have got on the 50. 6. I prefer the “character” of the EF 1.2 over the RF 1.2, but the RF has much, much better focus around the edges of the lens, and is more versatile. The RF color is also stunning. After using the RF on 3-4 shoots on loan, I let it go. The EF on the R is amazing with the adapter in the dark and I still love it on the 5d iv. If I had to pick just one though, I might pick the RF today. 7. Check out various DOF calculators: the 50 is amazing and versatile, but simply can’t do what the 85 1.2 can do. The depth of field is simply wider on the 50 for reasonable distances to people. After seeing what the RF 50 could do with color and focus, I purchased the RF 85, and it’s an amazing compliment to the EF 50 despite the nearby focal length. As I begin to shoot more low DOF human individuals - especially outdoors - I now pick up the RF 85 just as often as the EF 50 and EF 70-200. 8. The EF 50 is relatively tiny and even if you put the 24-70 in your bag, there is still room for the 50 ... and it might take a little more work to move your feet and take extra shots in case you miss focus, you may love the photos you get from the 50 over what you get from the 24-70. 8. Yes, the EF 50 1.2 and RF 50 are usable in servo AF - I won’t get every frame of my kid running at me at 1.2, but I’ll still get plenty to choose from.

[@VanessaJoy]

Ha, I've never thought about it as being a good lens to learn on, but you'er right! Lol and no... no kids running at 1.2. Just not happening haha

[@hlk466]

wow- my heads spinning. great info! what do you feel are the weaknesses of the 50 1.8 stm? maybe you need a KZbin channel

[@bariskaya4754]

Ah! Good to know I'm not unique 50mm lover in this planet. I didn't saw such a lovely and helpful explanation last months, congratulations 👏❤️

[@Rabe1907]

Ich bin bei dir ! Mein Immerdrauf ist das 50 mm 2.8 Makro !😁 👍

[@kevenspargo6829]

The 50mm prime is very versatile on a full frame camera. You achieve beautiful shots with it. That said, it’s unfortunate that the video does not warn beginners using APS-C cameras that they won’t be able to get the same results from a 50mm lens due to the crop factor of their camera. They should be looking for a 30-35mm lens to achieve the look demonstrated in this video.

[@VanessaJoy]

Actually a good majority of these images were shot with a crop sensor as I shot with the Canon 1D mark IV for a very long time. I’d still say it’s good for 1.3 and 1.6 cropped sensors 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@juliocesarpereira4325]

If you have APSC DSLRs or mirrorless cameras (my case), a 50mm will give you the approximation of a 75mm or 80mm lens. You have to take this into account in small places. In this case, I recommend a 35mm or a zoom lens. In this case of 35mm, my Nikon DSLRs have a feature that corrects that fisheye distortion that may occur when you take closer shots. Or you can do it with Lightroom or Photoshop. Or use analog 35mm or 120mm cameras, since they are technically "full frame".

[@VanessaJoy]

👏 ❤️

[@JoshLuciano]

YASSSSSS! Vanessa, it's so dope seeing you pushing out more content! YES! Keep crushing it

[@VanessaJoy]

thanks so much! So happy you're watching :-)

[@JoshLuciano]

@@VanessaJoy Of course! Always learning from you.

[@dominiku168]

I have at least half of dozen 50mm lenses in my collection from manual focus to AF F/1.2. They were great but after certain period of time, you will find 50mm is so boring. Then you explore some wide angle like 20/24/28mm or 85/105/135 for portrait. Many lens manufactures saying 50mm is the most standard out of the standard, normal out of normal. For me, 40-42mm is the most view human eyes cover for that angle. Although not too makers produce 42mm lens that's why we got stuck with 50mm and that's pretty much the standard lens across the entire industries.

[@VanessaJoy]

love your analysis here :-)

[@vntconcept]

I just bought a canon m50. what is the best lens to buy for videogarphy?

[@KYN-Photography]

I have a 50 mm but also go to my 70-200 Tamron G2 for my outdoor shots of my couples. The 50 however is a pretty decent lens for the cost. Can't go wrong. Loving the content. Joy 2 the world.

[@VanessaJoy]

Haha nice pun

[@MrCochise71]

I'm a professional landscape and environmental landscape photographer in Utah. I shoot many of my shots with the Canon 50 1.2 L EF It's definitely my baby! Nice video!

[@VanessaJoy]

Cochise Hart so nice to hear that coming from outside the wedding and portrait world

[@MrCochise71]

@@VanessaJoy Soon as I saw you praise your 50mmL I had to subscribe! 🙌

[@VanessaJoy]

Oh yay!! Thank you!

[@MrCochise71]

@@VanessaJoy 🙌🙌

[@JoeHTX]

I doubt you'll get a very good shot of a bald eagle 100 yards away, or even a grizzly bear that far away, or even a hummingbird 8 feet away. I've ran into so many scenario's where it's literally impossible to "zoom with your feet", either because of terrain restrictions, or danger (as in the case of a grizzly bear). I suppose though that if the only thing you're going to do is take pictures of people in a studio setting then one high quality 50mm lens would be all you need. But for most folks it's just not practical.

[@VanessaJoy]

Lol yeah definitely not for wild life 😜 but for all other human-based photo sessions it’s quite practical. Now who “most folks” are is really up for debate

[@JoeHTX]

@@VanessaJoy When I say "most folks" I'm talking about all the people I know who are photographers. We all go for wildlife and landscapes and such. Personally I very rarely take a photograph of people. I do realize that "most folks" means different things to different people and that's okay!

[@VanessaJoy]

@@JoeHTX haha yeah most folks for me are human-photographing photographers 😂 it’s all good!

[@andrewgavin1490]

Now that you’re loving the R5 have you tried the RF 50 1.2? I’m tempted by it. I had gone with the 24-70 2.8 because of the IS and flexibility but with IBIS the 1.2 is tempting me.

[@WesPerry]

When I first started out, I used some cheap extension tubes to use my 55mm for macro shots, too. So...pretty much everything 😉

[@LoriGraceAz]

When I upgraded my 5DMarkIII to a Sony a7RIII, I discovered the ability of high megapixel cameras to allow you to use "crop" or "Super35" mode to allow a lens to shoot at 2 different focal lengths. So, I now can shoot an entire wedding if need be using just a 35 and 85mm lens. The 35 gives me 35 and 52mm focal lengths, and the 85 gives me 85 and 127mm focal lengths, all at the press of a button. Yes, the crop mode turns my 42mp files into 18 mp, but those are still more than enough megapixels to deliver to a client. If I had to use only one lens, it'd probably be a 35 or 50.

[@VanessaJoy]

well there ya go then ;-)

[@Seitenwerk]

Mmhh. While I understand what you try to achieve. A 85 image when cropped is, in the end, still a 85mm. But compression, bokeh/depth of field and other optical stuff stays the same. That’s just something to keep in mind. I myself also usually just take two lenses with me. A 35mm and a 50mm. I also have a 85mm but I feel that it is usually so limiting for me that I barely use it.

[@juliamckernan354]

Finally someone that appreciates this great lens!

[@VanessaJoy]

Haha it’s a beaut!

[@Maximilan20]

Videos like these I live for. No rants, no side talks just straight into it as the title says. The images shown are TACK PIN SHARP. What did you use please?

[@VanessaJoy]

Camera?? They vary from a Canon 1dxii to an R

[@ChelseaBell2013]

Hi! Using your 50 lens, how do you take group portraits but keeping everyone's face is still Sharp? Thanks!!

[@syeduzair7830]

Use a small aperture like f4 or f5.6...

[@jameshall9233]

Hi. In the past I have shot about 50 weddings but that was back in the film era. Now that I am retired I am thinking about getting back into the art. I have lots of gear only now digital stuff of course. Any tips on how to get back to this awesome art form?

[@stevefrederick9736]

I too use a fixed 50mm as a go to lens for most things. Love it. When shooting sports my go to would be a 70-300mm.

[@VanessaJoy]

yes definitely need that length for sports :-)

[@sols9449]

Vanessa that shot in the church stairs is so well put together I can’t tell you how great it is. I wish I knew how to do group shots the way you do. Awesome you’re focusing on your own channel. Everyone listen up Vanessa is the best teacher if you want to learn to be a professional!

[@VanessaJoy]

Thanks so much! so great to have you here and thanks for the kind words :-)

[@greggunther]

Your photos are FANTASTIC!

[@VanessaJoy]

Thanks so much Greg :-)

[@IsaiahMcAllisterImagery]

Most wedding photographers like the 35mm 85mm combo on a wedding day. But it’s the 50mm and 135mm for me.

[@VanessaJoy]

Nice!

[@ron5935]

My photo mentor had a large wedding photography business. He provided Leicas with 50mm to all five photographers and used one himself. He also carried but seldom used 35 and 90 4.0. 99% of all shots were 50 mm. he personally developed 150 rolls each Sunday evening during wedding season. 100 foot rolls of Plus X were ordered by the case from Kodak.

[@VanessaJoy]

Wow that's pretty crazy! Who was this?

[@bird271828]

Vanessa, I totally agree. For many years, I used a Leica M3 with a 50mm F2 lens. I loved it.

[@VanessaJoy]

bird271828 oooooo Leica

[@JoshHarrisPhotography]

Love the “normal” focal length of a 50mm. My go-to whenever I just want to work on my skills and certainly if I expect to be shooting handheld in low light.

[@VanessaJoy]

Me too!

[@ColeDedhand]

Your "everything" is not exactly the same as most people's "everything". 50mm prime is great for any situation where you control your distance to the target. Like portraits and weddings. Which is what you do. So yes, great for your "everything".

[@reneefariasphoto40]

This post reminds me of the good ole film days, 23 years ago when I started my career as a full-time photographer. I used Mamiya 645 and 6x7 and on the 645 I used the 80mm and on the 6x7 the 110mm. Both being the near equivalent of 50mm on an FX 35mm digital or film camera. I mostly produced commercial print (of all types). Still do produce the same type of photography to this day, I use a similar setup, but also use the 80-200mm f/2.8 Nikor on my FX Nikon bodies, along with a 28mm prime, 50mm prime and 85mm prime. In general, I still love the 50mm and agree with this post. :)

[@VanessaJoy]

I miss those film days!

[@reneefariasphoto40]

@@VanessaJoy Oh Yeah!!! wait was that a Kool-Aide quote? "Oh Yeah" LOL

[@mangloreanwithabeard]

Addicted to your videos , Very informative

[@VanessaJoy]

Aw yay thanks so much for being here :)

[@mangloreanwithabeard]

@@VanessaJoy welcome Joy :)

[@davidrutledge6215]

Now those are what I call really nice photos! Thanks for sharing your advice.

[@VanessaJoy]

Aw thanks so much!

[@local9]

Back when I bought my 750D, I grabbed the Nifty 50, (50mm 1.8f) and have never used the kit lens that came with the body. Now I've expanded into other lenses, still, I don't touch the kit lens. Given its a cropped sensor and the lens is an EF lens, means I'm pushing 80mm focal, which is just perfect.

[@shy-guy5544]

Excellent video. I loved the soft diffused effect that you achieved with your wedding photos. Did you use a special filter or other special equipment to achieve this effect? Thanks

[@VanessaJoy]

Depends on which photo but ultimately it’s just the way I tend to photograph and where I place the light. ☺️ Thanks so much for the kind words!

[@shy-guy5544]

@@VanessaJoy Thanks

[@FiZ]

I was invited to attend a friend's wedding (and was even told I was under no pressure to shoot photos, despite being known for that). All I brought was a Fuji x-t2, a 35mm (~53mm equiv.) and one extra battery. Some of my photos still get passed around more than those from the official photog! (But I actually made sure I was never in the photog's way)

[@heyyitsandy]

I really identify with you on this.... I went through phases of playing ‘favorites’ with several focal lengths over the years as I upgraded my kit, and over the last 2 years or so, my little canon 50 1.4 is what I normally keep on there, because it’s small, light, and I tend to get better results with it, typically better than the pricier lenses! It’s got me thinking it’s time to go 1.2 because that’s what you do in a situation like this. Great VID. SUBSCRIBED.

[@VanessaJoy]

thank you so much!!! so glad you're here :-)

[@keithdolge]

Love my 50. I had a Canon 1.2 but after 10 years or so it died, so I sold it for parts and just picked up 1.4 for about a third of the price. Works well enough for me.

[@reviewsbyrobbie]

50mm on my EOS-R is fantastic!

[@RobertDombiphotography]

Reviews By Robbie that is what I’ve got on my R too

[@reviewsbyrobbie]

@@RobertDombiphotography I use that and 16-35mm 2.8 for video and I'm set!

[@heavydsilva1773]

Agree

[@VanessaJoy]

totally agree :-)

[@deltaimaging5774]

i too shoot Canon (since 1976 actually, in 6th grade) and i absolutely love the 50 f1.4 EF on my 5D3 and 5D4. glad to see im not the only one who shoots with the 50...

[@charruaporelmundo]

I was using 35 and 85,… but I just got a very expensive 50 mm for Sony system, I told my self, now what 😁🤷🏻‍♂️. Will begin to educate myself on it good usage, also the images it produce are magical. Thanks

[@dancedj2k2]

I see this video is a couple of years old, but it just popped up in my stream now. I really liked this video. Great direction and great explanations on why you do what you do. Something many people never tell you in their videos.

[@VanessaJoy]

Thanks so much! Glad you appreciate it. :-)

[@reugene12]

I was shooting a wedding (video) and the reception had very low lighting. (ambiance) I was forced to shoot with only my f1.8 50 mm lens wide open. It was a lifesaver!

[@VanessaJoy]

RonE Smith that definitely happens!!

[@truthsayers8725]

carry my EF 50mm 1.4 in every bag i grab, even if i have to move it (which i usually do). i grew up with an AE-1 in the late 70s-early 80s and zooms back then were notoriously slow (aperture), soft and never held focus... ive got the 24-70 f2.8II on my 5d4 for a LOT of work but i still love the 50

[@jamesmlodynia8757]

During the 5 plus years that I photographed events I found out that while I used some focal lengths more than others as some one that didn't use a second photographer or assistant I had to have primes and zoom lenses from 20mm up to 135mm to cover all the events that I photographed, while I did photograph weddings, I also did Memorial day events, sports, baptisms, birthdays and family photos. A lot of time I worked outdoors but with weddings and baptisms it was both indoors and outdoors.

[@VanessaJoy]

nice!

[@anthonydennis460]

Vanessa, I loved your video. Made me feel I have been doing everything right since 1952. Got a Brownie Hawkeye for my 9th birthday with normal lens. Got Leica IIIG with 50 mm lens in 1960 as high school yearbook photographer. Did weddings while in college in 1964 with Rollieflex with its normal 75mm Tessar lens. Moved up to 4x5 in 1966 with 135mm Optar (normal lens 50 mm equivalent). Bought Nikon F2 with 50mm F2 for model portfolios. Still use it for black and white headshots and everything today along with Leica M3 and 50mm Summicron. Went digital 8 years ago with Canon 5D MII and 50mm lens for weddings and school yearbook photography. Learned from Dennis Reggie that he uses the 500 for his wedding group shots. Did Hollywood style headshots, stage and theatrical photography with 4x5 and 35mm, all with normal lenses. Shot with flashbulbs for years for certain shoots. I love the smell of flashbulbs in the morning.. I have purchased other lenses but hardly used them since the normal 50mm and its equivalent served me well. Did formal family portraiture on 5x7 view camera with 8 1/4" lens ( 50mm equivalent) Was fortunate to have studied with Clarence Bull in 1970. Always have my Leica IIf with collapsible 50mm Summicron on me at all times. I still love film. Love my 50s as well. Made life simpler.

[@iemwill9429]

this is such an "ePIC" analysis on the 50mm lens! LOL :P keep it up! 🙏

[@a.sk.]

And with a lil tweaking you can also take macro shots!

[@lizda7]

Hi. What tweak for macro with 50? I want to know pls

[@JimKilgo]

It's the 'Nifty Fifty' very versatile lens!

[@VanessaJoy]

lol I don't know if I could call it that with a straight face - but I'm gonna have to try now :-)

[@PaulQuinones]

I have a Nikon 50mm 1.8d model lens that I don't use because I went mirroless. After watching your video, you've just convinced me to get the 50mm for my nikon Z6. Thanks Vanessa Joy. 😊, your work is awesome

[@VanessaJoy]

Paul Quinones haha nice 👍

[@bjsullivan1]

The 50S is a superb lens Paul.

[@mannyv.2769]

Amateur photographer from NYC here. Beautiful photos!😃🤙🏽

[@VanessaJoy]

Welcome!! And thx 😊

[@ChristopherBalladarez]

Jeez girl! YOUR WORK IS AMAZING. I finally found someone that I want to shoot my wedding.

[@VanessaJoy]

Oh my goodness THANK YOU! Such a compliment:)

[@jinxterpinxter]

@@VanessaJoy What camera do you use?

[@wanneske1969]

I have about 15 EF-lenses, from 15 to 600 mm, zoom and primes, but the 50 mm is actually the one I use the least, don't know why.

[@VanessaJoy]

Haha funny. We all have our own perspectives right?

[@PointBlankZA]

Just got the 35mm on my crop sensor, 52mm equivalent - Lightroom tells me, if I filter focal length, that my choice was correct as the vast majority of my images are shot around that focal range. It's only my big vista type landscapes that dip below 18mm and a few wildlife photos over 100mm... Awesome focal length to play with, great way to challenge your compositions!

[@VanessaJoy]

Fun! And thanks :)

[@modernmusicstudio303]

Your compositions are amazing! Very beautiful work! Definitely checking out more. Thank you for posting and for sharing your knowledge with us!

[@VanessaJoy]

Thank you so much!

[@africanhistory]

I discovered the beauty of the 50 late in my career. If you got stuck with only one lens for eternity, It would have to be 50. I use to think it was the 70-200mm I was so wrong. Way more important that zooming is the lens speed.

[@kaspar_1982]

apparently you can do micro with 50mm by turning it around and there is even an adapter.

[@kt6339]

Outstanding real-world overview of the 50mm, your spot on every comment / really enjoy your content!! & only think I’d add on the 50, is I think it’s more what the eye actually sees when a person is Looking at a scene

[@DavidKfilmmaker]

I send flowers to my RF 50 1.2.

[@aaronm5149]

Thanks for all the content

[@leotomma3494]

Finally someone showing pictures instead of talking about it

[@VanessaJoy]

Haha I do try

[@ThomasBricker]

Well done Vanessa. You are very good at what you do! I appreciate you and your perspectives. You were also a great shooter. 👍🏻

[@VanessaJoy]

Appreciate your comment! Come back anytime ☺️

[@mikethomas3498]

I agree. That 50 is amazing. I do sports and use it up under the Basketball hoop. Fast, precise and sharp images. Thanks for video

[@VanessaJoy]

oooo that must come out great!! Thanks for watching :-)

[@derbagger22]

I've been eyeing the RF 50mm f/1.2 for awhile now...want, want, want...

[@VanessaJoy]

it's a lovely lovely lens

[@dhretimanmallick2586]

Thanks for your wonderful video! Would you please let me know which 50mm lens is better for Sony Alpha Full Frame camera?

[@luissalazar2021]

You’re right about the 50mm but since I am shootings medium format the 120mm is my very favorite.

[@VanessaJoy]

That makes sense :)

[@selectumiustis7620]

Hi Vanesa I love your work I just buy this lens today can you make a video how can use with your R6 for pictures of 8 or 9 people with the back ground focus

[@josephchan4198]

Good refresher course for wedding or Portrait if needed. May look at your other videos to refresh memory on being creative and people skills. Thanks for video.

[@VanessaJoy]

Thanks!

[@upbeatfilmmakers3291]

Learned a lottttt......thanks so so much.. from India..🙂

[@willr8915]

Thanks for the tips, Vanessa. Agreed the 50mm makes everything look better compared to some of the wider focal lengths. One question, when you're doing group shots, how do you ensure that everyone is in nice crisp focus, but keep the bokeh creamy? Do you make sure everyone is stood on the same 'plane', do you shoot at a 2.8 or 3.5 maybe? Thanks a lot!

[@VanessaJoy]

If shooting groups that aren’t in a perfectly straight line I’m at least above 5.6. I stand them as far away from the background as I can to get a softer background. Good question!

[@willr8915]

@@VanessaJoy ah so 5.6 is the magic number. Thanks a lot, good to know!

[@IndaReid]

I love your attic space- very Chic! On my way to winning that Canon! ;-P

[@VanessaJoy]

Thanks 😊 it’s above my garage haha

[@karenm853]

Love this video. Thanks vanessa. You are always so helpful and it was great meeting you in Rosemont IL this fall. I loved my 50mm f1.8 so much I got the 50mm f1.4 and love it even more! Thanks for everything you share. You’re the best

[@VanessaJoy]

so happy to hear it! And YES the jump from the 1.8 to the 1.4 is PRETTY HUGE!

[@kibbsnowden6893]

I like the nifty fifty but I like the 85mm 1..2 is a great lens ,not shooting weddings presently I used my 135mm a lot when i was and 85 also the 50mm,several cameras ,Good tip for beginners...

[@DenisWasike]

Hi Vanessa, I have the nifty fifty 1.8 lens and shoot with a 90D canon body, I've been able to get some sharp decent shots. Thank you for the inspiration and the freebies

[@HaoTran-zu2of]

Another awesome video, thank you for sharing. When do you usually shoot 85mm?

[@leninmoreno4020]

Love your style! To the point with great photo examples and not so long of a video. Earned a sub 😀

[@VanessaJoy]

Lenin Moreno oh yay!! Thanks so much 😊

[@RakeshSharma-jj8ng]

Thank you so much. I have got dslr canon 700 D . I have 50mm canon too. Do you think I can take best of the photos. Do the higher model in dslr make difference?

[@VanessaJoy]

It’s about the photographer more than the camera so yes ☺️ check out this series on budget photo gear: kzbin.info/aero/PLsXiwWyXBJiZwOF18htYx888B0M9ZIR37

[@Francisfphoto_]

Still using your RF 50mm f1.2? Or only using now the RF 28-70?

[@thewoodys_surf_instrumental]

The first len's I bought back in the day for my Nikon FM and FE-2's was a 35mm , then a 85mm, then the 50mm. Later the 16mm then the 180mm 2.8. Great glass Nikor made back then, but when I went digital 15 years ago I went with Canon, just felt better in my hands and the menu made more sense than Nikon's. Vanessa, would love to see more videos on your post production work. Thanks and Cheers!

[@VanessaJoy]

I'll definitely show you more post production work - promise!

[@michaelbandeko3519]

I am a landscape photographer. I shoot with multiple cameras. One will always have a 50mm lens on it.

[@VanessaJoy]

Nice!

[@smallaxe3692]

Amazing photos! That sequence of three at 1.58 are insane!! Very inspiring

[@VanessaJoy]

Thanks so much

[@daywithdelta7645]

I’m convinced! Getting the 50! New to this. I’m probably going to get a cannon.

[@VanessaJoy]

Yayyyy

[@thenameischerryyy]

Your photos are great! 👏I have a mirrorless camera for over a year and the first prime lens that I purchased is a 35mm. It's also good but I'm convinced, 50mm is my next target! 📸😍

[@VanessaJoy]

Go for it!

[@movieman2009]

What about using a 24-105 zoom or the like and set the zoom at 50 mm ? Is my assumption correct that you may not always use F 1.2 or 1.4 but stop down? So would the zoom lens be more financially versatile vs a fixed 50 mm ??