Jennifer Voss , Jun 27, 2008; 10:57 a.m.
Another photographer suggested that I buy a prime lense when I asked how she got such clear and crisp portraits. I
have a D80. Any suggestions on what lense I should buy... I feel like I have no clue!
Robert Hooper 
, Jun 27, 2008; 11:00 a.m.
What kinds of things do you shoot, Jennifer? Even without knowing I can suggest the Nikon 50mm f1.8 D with confidence.
Its cheap ($110 street price in USA) and very sharp.
Eric Wirtz , Jun 27, 2008; 11:01 a.m.
If you're looking for something sharp as a razor blade and fairly cheap then look into the Nikkor 50mm f/1.8D. It's just a smidge over 100 bucks and pretty decent for portraits. The 1.4 version is closer to 300 bucks I think.
Jennifer Voss , Jun 27, 2008; 11:03 a.m.
That's the one I was looking at online, but didn't know if it was good or not... just randomly found it. I do mostly engagement, family, seniors, and weddings. I just never seem to get the detail I want when doing close ups. Right now, I only have the standard lens that comes with the camera. Any other suggestions on lenses? I need a zoom as well. !!
Rene' Villela 
, Jun 27, 2008; 11:05 a.m.
Jennifer... we need more info! what do you shoot? Kids? Landscape? Flowers? There is a lens for every category! Also
what lenses do you have and very important, how much dough you have in hand for a piece of glass? Rene'
Eric Wirtz , Jun 27, 2008; 11:09 a.m.
That photo above was taken with the 1.8D not the 1.4. When I type fast I get stupid ;)
Asking something such as you're asking, which prime AND zoom you should buy is going to start a fight! Only kidding...kinda.
Joe A 
, Jun 27, 2008; 11:11 a.m.
Another vote for the 50mm AF f/1.8D. Be sure to buy from a reputable source, either your local camera shop or a proven national source like B&H or Adorama or KEH.
Which lens do you have? The D80 came with a few different choices.
What's your lens budget?
Robert Hooper , Jun 27, 2008; 11:12 a.m.
Yes, tell us what lens you are using and perhaps post an example of an image you are not happy with. There are a lot of
variables that contribute to sharp images. How confident are you about technique? Perhaps you have a poor lens sample.
Bruce Margolis , Jun 27, 2008; 11:13 a.m.
Jennifer, the 50mm f/1.8 is a very good lens optically. While it may help you, it also is limiting.
The 50mm focal length on a digital body is actually a short tele lens. In other words, it does not have a wide angle of view so if you want wide shots or groups shots, this won't be the best lens. OTOH, it is a wonderful lens for portraits as long as the subjects don't mind you getting in close. Some people have a problem with that.
What does 50mm look like? Simply set your kit lens to 50mm. That will give you a rough idea.
There are many other possibilities but virtually all will cost more money. Setting a budget would be helpful.
Jennifer Voss , Jun 27, 2008; 11:30 a.m.
I believe I have the 18-55mm lens.... FOr a prime lens, I wanted to stay under $200.... Most of my portraits are
somewhat clear, but when I try to take photos of my one year old, I seem to never get those detailed eyes, etc. I'll
attach a few photos
[IMG]http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q62/jynn10/layne.jpg[/IMG]
[IMG]http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q62/jynn10/jess.jpg[/IMG]
[IMG]http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q62/jynn10/claire.jpg[/IMG]
