Choosing the Right Lens for Nikon D7200: Nikon 50mm 1.8D vs. 18-140mm Kit

When deciding between the Nikkor 50mm 1.8D or the 18-140mm kit lens for your Nikon D7200, especially if your primary focus is on portrait and street photography, it's crucial to weigh the advantages of both lenses. In this article, we'll explore the pros and cons of each lens, helping you make an informed decision that suits your photography needs.

Why the Nikkor 50mm 1.8D is a Standout Choice

The Nikkor 50mm 1.8D is often praised for its exceptional value and performance, earning it the nickname "a steal" in the photography community. Many photographers, including myself, recommend this lens for its outstanding optical quality and affordability. If you were in the same position as the original poster, my advice would unequivocally be to opt for the 50mm lens. Here’s why:

Portraiture Expertise: The 50mm prime lens is ideal for portraits due to its fast f/1.8 aperture, which allows for excellent low-light performance and unparalleled bokeh (out-of-focus background). This aperture speed and focal length enable you to achieve a beautiful, shallow depth of field, making the subject stand out. Performance and Optical Quality: The 50mm 1.8D offers exceptional sharpness and contrast, providing crisp and clear images that are perfect for both portrait and street photography. Price Point: As a professional-grade lens, the 50mm 1.8D is remarkably cost-effective, making it an excellent investment for photographers on a budget.

Understanding the 18-140mm Kit Lens: A Versatile but Less Specialized Choice

The 18-140mm kit lens is a versatile option, providing a range of focal lengths from 18mm to 140mm, making it suitable for various shooting scenarios, including wide-angle shots and telephoto portraits. Here’s why it might be a good choice if you're looking for a more all-around lens:

Convenience and Portability: With a single lens covering a wide range of focal lengths, the 18-140mm kit lens is highly convenient for travel and situations where you need to carry lightweight gear. Versatility: This lens can handle a variety of shooting styles, making it a reliable choice for both portraiture and street photography. Its 100-140mm focal range also allows for decent background bokeh, even at f/5.6. Disadvantages: While it is a good all-rounder, the 18-140mm kit lens comes with some trade-offs. It is a consumer-grade lens, meaning it may not perform as well in low-light conditions ordeliver the sharpness of a prime lens like the 50mm 1.8D. Additionally, it lacks the specialized features and optical performance of a prime lens, such as a wider aperture.

When to Choose the Nikkor 50mm 1.8D Over the 18-140mm Kit

If your primary focus is on portrait and street photography, the 50mm 1.8D offers superior performance and sharpness, making it a more suitable choice. Here are a few reasons why:

Portraiture Specific: For portrait work, the 50mm prime lens is a dedicated tool that can’t be replaced. The f/1.8 aperture allows for creamy bokeh and exceptional low-light performance, making it an ideal companion for portrait photographers. Bokeh Quality: The bokeh produced by the 50mm 1.8D is renowned for its smooth and pleasing quality, which is crucial for isolating your subject from the background. Price for Performance: As mentioned earlier, the 50mm 1.8D is a cost-effective option that delivers professional-grade performance without breaking the bank.

Should You Consider an 85mm Lens?

An 85mm lens is often recommended for portrait photography because it provides a slightly longer focal length than a 50mm, which can be more flattering for portraits. The 85mm lens offers a longer focal length than the 50mm but still maintains a relatively narrow field of view, making it ideal for portraits. However, it may not offer the same level of sharpness as a 50mm 1.8D.

Conclusion: Balancing Cost and Performance

In the end, whether you opt for the Nikkor 50mm 1.8D or the 18-140mm kit, it ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you want a highly specialized and high-performance lens for portraits and street photography, the 50mm 1.8D is an excellent choice. However, if you require a versatile lens that can handle a variety of shooting styles, the 18-140mm kit lens is a solid option. Additionally, consider that you may want to add a 24mm, 28mm, or 35mm prime lens later to form a versatile two-lens outfit for a wider range of photography needs.