50mm Prime Lens for D3100

[peteallen84]

Hi all,

I've recently bought my first DSLR, a Nikon D3100, and I am considering getting a prime 50mm lens. I've had a look at the Nikon 50mm f1.8 D AF lensm which I've read good reviews of, but I understand this doesn't have autofocus with the D3100. As a newbie to photography I wonder, is this likely to make much difference in using the lens? Is there a better lens out there for my camera (and subsequent cameras as and when), or is this lens the best option for a newbie?

All advice and reviews would be hugely appreciated.

Cheers guys

Pete

[markgozz]

Hi Pete the Nikon 50mm f1.8 G AF-S Lens will auto focus on the 3100 and it's compatible with FX format bodys if you upgrade in the future but you will have to extend your budget a bit from the f/1.8 D AF .
As a newbie to photography I think that auto focus is a handy advantage but not a necessity .

Mark

[greenwing]

Originally Posted by peteallen84

Hi all,

I've recently bought my first DSLR, a Nikon D3100, and I am considering getting a prime 50mm lens. I've had a look at the Nikon 50mm f1.8 D AF lensm which I've read good reviews of, but I understand this doesn't have autofocus with the D3100. As a newbie to photography I wonder, is this likely to make much difference in using the lens? Is there a better lens out there for my camera (and subsequent cameras as and when), or is this lens the best option for a newbie?

All advice and reviews would be hugely appreciated.

Cheers guys

Pete

I think the lack of AF would be a nuisance with the D3100. As Mark said, there's always the 50mm 1.8G AF-S.

But, why 50mm? Because that's what you've decided would be useful, or because people say you should? If you've decided it would be useful to you, go ahead & get it. If not, see if that's what you really need before you jump in.

Chris

[peteallen84]

I think a 50mm would be useful, yeah, and I've read a lot of review on their benefits. I would like to try out lots of aspects of potography, which will obviously require different equipment, but I have to start somewhere! Other than the autofocus, are there any other major differences between the 50mm f1.8 D AF and the f1.8 G AF-S (other than about £60, of course)? Has anyone got either of these? Are you happy with it?

[beatnik69]

The D is smaller and lighter than the G. I have both and get good results from each of them. You'll probably find the G more useful as it has the AF built in.