Definitely the 50mm f1.4 - it approximates the human eye's angle of view, and is the most versatile focal length: move in for a nice shallow dof, or step back for reasonably wide shots.
I wouldn't get hung up on what 50mm 'means', but generally think of lens focal lengths in three categories:
wide angles (35mm or less in focal length)
'normal' (35mm-65mm)
telephoto (85mm +)
eventually you'll want one of each. I'd probably look for a good 35mm or 28mm focal length next. FDs are so inexpensive you can get fast lenses for not much $$ at all.
Also consider Canon FL lenses, the precursor to FD lenses, which are also excellent buys.
Cheers
Brian
PS - in case you absolutely have to know: the focal length of a lens is defined as the distance in mm from the optical center of the lens to the focal point http://www.dpreview.com/learn/?/key=focal_length
Thread: FAQ like Info about 35mm lenses
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07-31-2010 08:10 AM
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08-30-2010 06:39 PM
That was a great read. It was very helpful, now I can start building up my collection of lenses =D
Canon 7D | Nikkon 35mm f2.0, 50mm f1.4, 135mm 3.5 | Tascam DR-100 | Rode NTG-1 | Jag35 Full HDSLR Shoulder Rig | FCS 2 | FCPX | MBP 15"
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