Camera people: Canon 50mm f/1.4 or f/1.8?

[JacksonsMom]

So, I've been wanting a 50mm for a long time.

As a newbie, I still am learning a lot, and used to using auto/etc.

What is the main difference between the Canon 50mm f/1.4 or the f/1.8? I read some reviews on amazon, and I almost think I should splurge for the f/1.4... but then again, the price on the f/1.8 is so much more in my budget at the moment... but if I'm going to ultimately be happier with the f/1.4, should I not even waste my money on the f/1.8 or would it better for a beginner like me??

http://www.amazon.com/Canon-Standard...n+50mm+f%2F1.4

http://www.amazon.com/Canon-50mm-1-8...n+50mm+f%2F1.4

[stardogs]

I went with the 1.8 and have liked it. I've heard great things about the 1.4, but it's just too pricy for me.

FYI check Adorama and KEH for used ones - way cheaper.

[tzigane]

They're essentially the same, it's just that the 1.4 goes wider than the 1.8. I personally have never run into a scenario where I needed something wider than 1.8. While it would be handy for low-light, the amount in focus is just so insanely narrow. I personally don't have a use for anything that narrow, but I also mostly shoot dogs, where even 1.8 doesn't get the whole head in focus if he's looking at me.

[AdrianneIsabel]

1.4 is awesome but really as self coined newbie you should go with the 1.8.

[AndrewF]

The difference is exactly 1/2 of a stop. You don't gain a huge amount of extra light, extra view-finder brightness or added bokeh for the cost you pay over the 1.8. Unless you really need the half-stop, you're better sticking with the 1.8. For the money, they're the best bang for the buck.

One thing the 1.4 does have is more aperture blades which does make the out of focus area a bit nicer. This would be (IMHO) the reason to go with the 1.4, if you're biased towards it.