50mm f/1.8

[CameronMagee]

When my 7D comes in, I'm going to stick my 50mm f/1.8 on it, and have a blast.

These rigs ya'll are building look incredible, but I'm looking forward to seeing what the camera does with one lens, no grips, no rails, no matte box, no follow focus.

I look forward to being embarrassed. :D

But seriously, is anyone else going to take the minimalist approach? I've got a full DVX100A rig with a mic locker and gear out the ears, but when this 7D wonder comes in, I'm going to go "pure" for a while and enjoy the simplicity.

[Norbert]

But seriously, is anyone else going to take the minimalist approach?Certainly. That's why I ordered it. The fact that it can be very minimalistic is probably why I am interested in these vdslrs.

[Boz]

My bank account demands a minimalist approach with the 7D. :)

I plan to slowly add a few lenses (I have two), then eventually a loupe, monitor, rails, matte box and follow focus system. But that will take at least a year to get there, if not two.

[UKyank]

I would recommend a seperate mic, even with the minimalist approach

[mtan]

Yea I will probably get the 50mm 1.8 as well. I just got my Rode Videomic and will hope for a Magic Bullet fix for the audio gain, the Beachtek is too expensive for what it does and I don't need XLR connections with the Rode.

I have a monopod, Velbon Tripod, and a spiderbrace for support. I would love to have that Zacuto but the price would have to be half of what it is to even consider it.

I might get the Cavision handgrip/viewfinder in the future instead
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/637630-REG/Cavision_RS5DM2_VSH_DSLR_Single_Handgrip_Viewfinde r.html

[Perry Wilson]

the only reason I can even afford to build that exact eng style rig from that other post is because I already have it all from using my XHA1s with Redrock( what a beast that was) in eng style... otherwise I would be right there with you man... But I am stuck with the kit lens until my Redrock sells so...

[Chance White]

I'm in the same boat. Will probably start out with a 50mm 1.8 and the Tamron 17-50 and add a longer lens later. The Z-Finder is tempting but looking for more affordable, quality alternatives, the grip + viewfinder posted is tempting but it looks like it will take 2-4 weeks. I will probably wind up opting for the Z-Finder based on all of the rave reviews. Mattebox, rails, etc much later once I start making money with my 7D.

Also regarding the 50mm 1.8, I was going to snag the Canon EF, any one care to chime in with recommendations otherwise around the same price range?

[CameronMagee]

I will chime in!

I love my Canon 50mm f/1.8. I love it.

There might be alternatives, but when comparatively looking at how much money we spent on this gear, the competition lenses might be $30 difference.

I'm not too much of a gear snob about "I only use Canon gear," or anything, but I do love that little piece of glass.

[cjwolff]

I would recommend a seperate mic, even with the minimalist approach

Has anyone had any luck with the blue icicle? $47.95 and record to your laptop from an XLR mic. A colleage of mine picked one up and it sounds decent.

[Perry Wilson]

which 50mm are you all in love with the usm that cost $1000 or the 50mm that cost $200 please link me to it on BH lookin to build up some lenses

[mhood]

I bought the 50mm EF 1.4 USM for $350 new off ebay. I love the very long focus throw on this lens. A Canon fanboy friend of mine called this lens the "Nifty Fifty" and said it was an absolute must have. Here's the Amazon listing.

http://www.amazon.com/Canon-Standard-Medium-Telephoto-Cameras/dp/B00009XVCZ/ref=wl_it_dp_o?ie=UTF8&coliid=I1QAA830SV7ND7&colid=1IBRIJKL5VYWK

[Sttratos]

I have a set of nikons. I will just use them. I think used nikons are also cheaper to get than used EF lenses and they are as good for sure.

[CameronMagee]

Here's a listing of 50mm's like you requested. :)

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/search?Ntt=canon+50mm+lens&N=4291570227+38&Ns=p_PRICE_2%7C0&mnp=107&mxp=6000

The passionate love affair I am referring to involves the $110. Of course the other two are "better", so knock yourself out. I'm stating on the record that the "cheapest" $110 rocks my world every day.

thank you

[tony240sx]

Is there a difference in image quality between the 1.4 and 1.8 or is the price difference based on simply on being a faster lens? I am looking to use the lens for video and also portrait stills work. I just want to get the best image quality so do you guys feel the extra cash for the 1.4 is worth it? I dont know enough about canon glass, so if anyone can enlighten me on the differences between the two i would appreciate it.

[mhood]

Here's a review of the 1.4 USM: http://www.photozone.de/canon-eos/159-canon-ef-50mm-f14-usm-test-report--review

...and the 1.8: http://www.photozone.de/canon-eos/160-canon-ef-50mm-f18-ii-test-report--review

[tony240sx]

Thanks mhood. It looks like the image quality is pretty comparable on the 1.8. Its just so much cheaper because of the build quality. I do remember messing with one a while back on a brevis and they feel like a toy. As long as the image is on par I can live with plastic construction.

[dcloud]

well it is 1 stop brighter that makes a difference

[cjwolff]

Here's some f 1.4 action for ya on a 5d.

http://www.vimeo.com/4973278

and 1.8 action.

http://www.vimeo.com/6550645

[tony240sx]

Here's some f 1.4 action for ya on a 5d.

http://www.vimeo.com/4973278

and 1.8 action.

http://www.vimeo.com/6550645


Of course but I can also live with one stop for that price difference at this point.




And thanks for posting that footage. Both lenses look great to me and the 1.8 really does well at around 2.8 from what I'm seeing on stills posted online. I'm gonna give it a shot and see how it compares to my nikon 55mm f/1.2.

[Perry Wilson]

MEEEW! so adorable. that 1.8 looks great Sold!... the only beef I have is there is no place for my follow focus ring

[CameronMagee]

The two are definitely different, I guess.

My f/1.8 does feel "cheap". ?? I call it "lightweight" and "portable". :)

Yes the f/1.4 is nicer. It's metal mount and build quality will let you know you paid $400 for it. Which, by the way, IS NOT BAD AT ALL. :) I love taking a step back. a 7D plus the "nicer" f/1.4 50mm is still only like $1800. Remember what it used to cost to get this work done? :D

Yes. The f/1.8 feels cheap and lightweight. The f/1.4 is nicer. In my opinion, which doesn't matter, the f/1.4 does not feel $300 nicer. It's better, sure. But they are really really close, and I'm very comfortable with my 50mm f/1.8.

*confession*
I'm actually a Photographer.

[Perry Wilson]

here is footage of the 1.8 on the 7D at low light http://vimeo.com/6807353 great footage but like I said before no place for my Redrock follow focus rings...

[bjdowns]

The 50mm f/1.8 Mark I is also a good bet. It's a bit more expensive than the Mark II, because it features a metal mount, distance meter, and is a bit more rugged. It's just as sharp or sharper than the Mark II, here's a whole Flickr group of photos taken with the Mark I - http://www.flickr.com/groups/canon50mm_1-8mark1lens/

You can find them all the time on eBay, or on the used sections of B&H or Adorama.

[cjwolff]

Of course but I can also live with one stop for that price difference at this point.




And thanks for posting that footage. Both lenses look great to me and the 1.8 really does well at around 2.8 from what I'm seeing on stills posted online. I'm gonna give it a shot and see how it compares to my nikon 55mm f/1.2.

your welcome. Hey I dunno man, can you get away with the 1.8? Certainly. But I've seen some stuff shot with the 1.4 that has a whole different feel. If you dig deep on the 5d board there was a vimeo shot with a couple of college age guys with the 1.4. It was bokeh, qualiteh, and authoriteh, as in respect it.

[Rakesh Jacob]

I shot this with the Rebel T1i and 50mm f1.8 II and given this is the COMPLETE bottom end solution from Canon it SHOCKED the hell out of me. For the price this lens is a great buy. Even if I had the 1.4 or 1.2 (which I will soon) I would still get this lens for walk around purposes because if it get's hit or harmed WHO GIVES A F---? It's cheaper then good filters LOL
http://vimeo.com/6714522
password: wheeler

[SimonPatrick]

I shot this with the Rebel T1i and 50mm f1.8 II and given this is the COMPLETE bottom end solution from Canon it SHOCKED the hell out of me. For the price this lens is a great buy. Even if I had the 1.4 or 1.2 (which I will soon) I would still get this lens for walk around purposes because if it get's hit or harmed WHO GIVES A F---? It's cheaper then good filters LOL
http://vimeo.com/6714522
password: wheeler
Wow. Really nice.

Also checked out "I-10: A Drive Into Darkness"... also very cool. Is that a SC400?

[SimonPatrick]

Now watching MUSIC VIDEO : Dougie D f/ Trae & Lil Boss - Boss Mac Swag for the 2nd time...(caught in a rewind loop at 4.18... booty heaven:Drogar-Love(DBG)::thumbup::thumbup:)

[mhood]

Just noticed that the 50mm 1.4 USM's focus ring has a full 180 degrees of travel. Much more than my other USM Prime (28mm 1.8). Does the 50mm 1.8 have the long focus ring travel? If not, that might be another reason to opt for the 1.4.

[Rakesh Jacob]

Wow. Really nice.

Also checked out "I-10: A Drive Into Darkness"... also very cool. Is that a SC400?
I wish, it's just a Ford Tarus LOL
That's what I love about these cameras more than anything, being able to always have it with you and get cool shots. Can't wait for my 7Ds


Now watching MUSIC VIDEO : Dougie D f/ Trae & Lil Boss - Boss Mac Swag for the 2nd time...(caught in a rewind loop at 4.18... booty heaven:Drogar-Love(DBG)::thumbup::thumbup:)
LOL glad you liked it. Those girls were super cool and down to earth.


Just noticed that the 50mm 1.4 USM's focus ring has a full 180 degrees of travel. Much more than my other USM Prime (28mm 1.8). Does the 50mm 1.8 have the long focus ring travel? If not, that might be another reason to opt for the 1.4.
The focus ring on the 1.8 sux, it's a small lip on the edge of the lens and it has about 90 degrees of travel (1/4 turn) BUT I havn't had issues like I thought I would. Pulling focus with it has been surprisingly easy, of course thnx to the fact it is a sharp lens and the Canons have wounderful LCDs.

[SimonPatrick]

I wish, it's just a Ford Tarus LOL
That's what I love about these cameras more than anything, being able to always have it with you and get cool shots. Can't wait for my 7Ds


LOL glad you liked it. Those girls were super cool and down to earth.


The focus ring on the 1.8 sux, it's a small lip on the edge of the lens and it has about 90 degrees of travel (1/4 turn) BUT I havn't had issues like I thought I would. Pulling focus with it has been surprisingly easy, of course thnx to the fact it is a sharp lens and the Canons have wounderful LCDs.
Hey Johnny, what camera did you use for the music vid? That's a super slick production!

[J. Odoms]

You can find them all the time on eBay, or on the used sections of B&H or Adorama.

I just happen to find one on ebay, right after reading this thread for an awesome price. It seems they're going for a constant $175-199. I paid $150 shipping & UV Filter included (W00T)

[iniosante]

Besides being a faster lens, the f/1.4 50mm has (8) aperture blades compared to the f/1.8 only having (5) blades. If you are getting the 7D because you love the look of shallow DOF then get the f/1.4- the bokeh it produces is significantly more aesthetically pleasing due to it having eight blades.

Ash
www.iniosante.com

[Rakesh Jacob]

Hey Johnny, what camera did you use for the music vid? That's a super slick production!

That was the HVX200a with no lens adapter. I usually shoot with a Redrock M2 or Letus Extreme, but I wanted deeper depth of field so I went without. I really wanted the club to look gritty and not polished and not pretty. I wanted people who are into that type of thing to feel at home and those that aren't to feel icky LOL
And I get people that love it and people that are absolutely offended by it, which is cool 'cause that's what it was intended to do :)

[kalieaire]

I'd personally go for the 50mm 1.8. I actually have the 1.8, 1.4, and 1.2. I use them all for different occasions.

Let me tell you, the 50mm 1.8 is still the most heavily used lens in my collection. Sometimes I want to be light and move around. With the 5D and the 7D, you have to deal with using extra equipment anyway like a mic preamp etc. Because of that, weight gets to be a hassle sometimes.

The 50mm 1.8 really helps in this department.

[SimonPatrick]

That was the HVX200a with no lens adapter. I usually shoot with a Redrock M2 or Letus Extreme, but I wanted deeper depth of field so I went without. I really wanted the club to look gritty and not polished and not pretty. I wanted people who are into that type of thing to feel at home and those that aren't to feel icky LOL
And I get people that love it and people that are absolutely offended by it, which is cool 'cause that's what it was intended to do :)
Well it looks brilliant. Goes to show that the elusive cinematic look isn't necessarily about shallow depth of field. I really like the grungy look of the place... very atmospheric and edgy... the kind of place where I might get lucky or I might get dead... (being something of a nerd, more likely the latter)

[Steeltech6]

The 50 1.4 and the 1.2 have ultrasonic motors which quietly aid autofocus while shooting stills. This also provides full time manual focus even when switched to autofocus mode - something the 1.8 can't do. Both the 1.2 and the 1.4 have a focus scale that often helps when setting up a rack focus with video.

I've used the 50 1.8 for a while but just recently got myself the 50 1.4. I really think the image quality for those of us shooting video is comparable. I've heard people mention that the resolution of the video that these cameras are able to produce isn't as high as the stills that they are capable of. For this reason, image quality from the lens isn't as big of a deal if you want to shoot video with the cheaper lens. I don't necessarily agree with that statement, but an interesting point. I will always try to use the tools that will give me the BEST image quality and the BEST audio if it's within my budget.

I agree with what everyone here says, if you can spring for the more expensive versions, get them; if for no other reason than to use the extra stops of light that they afford you. At about $100, the 1.8 is a very easy choice to make if just for your "Crash Lens" that you keep on all the time.

I myself desired the 1.4 because of the larger focus ring and I want to be able to easily use a follow focus ring gear on this lens. Aside from the better low light performance and build quality, that was the biggest factor for me.

-Michael Rivera

[KeithAndrews.TV]

Just picked up the 50mm f/1.4 from my local shop tonight. I can't tell you how much I love this lens and the speed! It truly is a perfect portrait length and will work great for those MCU's and CU's where you want to really throw the background out of focus. I am now considering either buying the new ef-s 15-85mm f/3.5-5.6, or the ef-s 17-55mm f/2.8. Now that I am hooked on speed I may just have to go with the 17-55mm!

[Rakesh Jacob]

get the 2.8. I've been messing around with a T1i while I wait for the 7D and the 18-55 3.5-5.6 only sees the outside of the camera bag when it's been long enough for me to forget how much it sucks compared to the 50 1.8. Then after 5 minutes and it's back in the bag :(