Choosing the Right Lens for Your DSLR Camera: D7100, D5300, and Lens Recommendations

When deciding between lens purchases for your DSLR camera, the choice can often seem overwhelming. In this article, we will discuss the Canon EOS D7100, Nikon D5300, and the various lenses available, such as the 35mm f/1.8, 85mm f/1.8, and 50mm f/1.8. Each lens offers different features and is suited for various photography needs.

Understanding Camera Bodies and Lens Choices

Both the Canon EOS D7100 and Nikon D5300 are excellent choices for different types of photographers. However, when it comes to lens selection, the choice depends on your specific shooting requirements. While it is ultimately up to you to decide how much you want to invest in a particular lens, this article aims to provide you with the necessary information to make an informed decision.

35mm versus 50mm Lenses

The 35mm f/1.8 and 50mm f/1.8 lenses are both considered excellent options, and their performance is quite similar. The 35mm lens offers a slightly wider field of view, while the 50mm provides a more traditional "normal" angle. Both lenses are known for their excellent image quality and shallow depth of field, making them highly suitable for portraits and low-light photography.

Why Not Both?

Given that the 35mm and 50mm lenses are very similar in their focal length, field of view, and bokeh effects, it is generally recommended to choose one over the other instead of owning both. The 35mm lens is great for those who want just a bit more reach or wish to explore a wider perspective. On the other hand, the 50mm is the go-to choice for more traditional, human eye-level photography.

The 85mm f/1.8 Lens

For those who are particularly fond of prime lenses, the 85mm f/1.8 lens should be considered. This lens provides a longer focal length, offering a more dramatic compression effect. It is ideal for portraits and can help in isolating subjects from the background with a very shallow depth of field. Unlike the 35mm and 50mm, the 85mm lens has a longer focal length, making it more suited for those who want to capture headshots or full-body portraits.

Combining Lenses with Camera Bodies

From a lens point of view, my recommendation would be to buy the Canon EOS D7100 and sell your 50mm f/1.8 lens to get some additional funds. Use these funds to purchase a high-quality kit lens, such as the 17-55mm f/2.8, which offers versatility across different focal lengths. The D7100 is a highly capable camera that can handle various shooting scenarios, and the 17-55mm f/2.8 offers a seamless transition between wide-angle and mid-range photography.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to choosing between the D7100 and the D5300, the choice depends on your specific needs and preferences. Both cameras offer excellent performance, but the D7100 is slightly more advanced and features a better image processor, making it a top choice for enthusiasts and professionals.

In summary, if your prime lenses are 35mm and 50mm, they are very close in terms of focal length, so it is advisable to own just one. However, if you prefer prime lenses, the 85mm f/1.8 is an excellent addition. With the D7100, you get more flexibility, which makes it a worthwhile investment, especially when paired with a versatile kit lens like the 17-55mm f/2.8.

Key Takeaways

For 35mm or 50mm lenses, choose one over the other based on your specific needs. The 85mm f/1.8 lens is ideal for portraits and offers a dramatic compression effect. The D7100 is a more advanced choice that offers better performance for both amateurs and professionals. A versatile kit lens like the 17-55mm f/2.8 enhances the overall versatility of the camera.

By carefully considering your photography goals and budget, you can make a choice that will serve you well in your photography journey.