Why every photographer needs a “Nifty Fifty”.
The “Nifty Fifty” is a term used to describe a 50mm prime lens, which has become a beloved piece of equipment for many photographers. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what makes the Nifty Fifty lens so special and why people love it so much.
What is the Nifty Fifty lens?
A 50mm prime lens is a lens that has a fixed focal length of 50mm, which means it can’t zoom in or out. The Nifty Fifty lens is often a f/1.8 or f/1.4 aperture lens, which allows for a wide aperture and shallow depth of field, making it great for low-light situations and portraits.
Why do people love the Nifty Fifty lens?
- Affordability
One of the main reasons people love the Nifty Fifty lens is its affordability. Compared to other lenses, the Nifty Fifty is relatively inexpensive, making it an accessible option for many photographers. This affordability also makes it a great starter lens for beginners.
- Sharpness
The Nifty Fifty lens is known for its sharpness, even at wider apertures. This means that images taken with this lens will have a lot of detail and clarity, making it great for portraits, landscapes, and street photography.
- Bokeh
Because of its wide aperture, the Nifty Fifty lens creates a shallow depth of field, which results in beautiful bokeh. Bokeh refers to the blurred background in a photo, which can make the subject stand out and create a dreamy, ethereal effect.
- Versatility
The Nifty Fifty lens is a versatile lens that can be used for a variety of photography genres, including portraits, landscapes, street photography, and more. Its wide aperture also makes it great for low-light situations, where other lenses may struggle.
- Lightweight and compact
The Nifty Fifty lens is also lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around and use for extended periods of time. This makes it a great option for travel photography or for photographers who need to be on the move.
Conclusion
The Nifty Fifty lens is a beloved piece of equipment for many photographers, and for good reason. Its affordability, sharpness, bokeh, versatility, and compact size make it a great option for beginners and professionals alike. If you’re looking to add a new lens to your camera bag, consider the Nifty Fifty. It may just become your new favourite lens. It is mine.
