*For more information visit AdoramaTV YT page, and of course you can keep up with David on Instagram and Twitter @DavidBergman. LATEST UPDATE: David opened up new IGTV episodes where you can ask him questions live! find out more at http://www.AskDavidBergman.com
What is the most valuable piece of gear you as a photographer have in your toolbox? It might be your DSLR body, or ProFoto D1 kit, or maybe your favorite prime lens! Today we will talk in depth about the latter. After all, there is a reason why the classic 50 mm prime lens is called among photographers as “nifty fifty.” And photographer David Bergman will help us understand this lens’ versatility and importance.
David shares: “When new photographers get their first DSLR, it usually comes with a standard kit lens, like the 18-55mm. The widest aperture of that lens varies from 3.5mm to 5.6, meaning that as you zoom in, it closes down, letting less light pass through the lens and onto your camera sensor.”
“That’s fine when you first start out, there’s a good way to get used to shooting with a DSLR, but eventually you want something more, and I recommend one of the next lenses you buy should be a 50mm. Often referred to as a nifty 50.”
“It’s a prime lens, which means it doesn’t zoom at all, but what you give up in convenience, is more than made up by some other big advantages. The first thing you’ll notice is that it’s small and lightweight, that makes it super easy to carry around, whether in your camera bag, or just attached to your camera body all day long, but let’s get to the real reason you’ll want to buy a 50…the super wide aperture.”
“You can buy them with maximum apertures of 1.8, 1.4, even 1.2. They let in three to four extra stops of light, compared to the kit lens, zoomed at 50 mm, so you can shoot in much lower light, while keeping your shutter speed nice and fast. That usually translates to sharper images, also when shooting wide open, you can get that super creamy out-of-focus background. It helps your subject jump out of your image and the 50mm is also one of the more affordable lenses, as far as camera equipment goes.”
“So when you outgrow your kit lens, and are looking to upgrade your photo gear. Pick up a nifty 50. Because it’s a lens you just might keep forever. “
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Watch the full episode with David Bergman and Adorama TV: