Nikon 50mm f/1.8 AF on a Nikon D40?

Question

guys id like to get this 50mm by Nikon for my D40. I am aware that everything will work except AF.

I'm intend to use this for portrait and low light conditions,

the lens is very affordable.

my question is:

1. is it difficult (time consuming) to manual focus?

2. can you suggest an alternative lens for the same purpose? (regardless of price)

Answer 1

It's a nice lens, and certainly can't be beat in price.

1. It depends on what you'll be shooting in low light. Portraits, night photography, or anything posed will be fine. The focus light still works on the D40 (it's the green focus dot in your viewfinder. It lights when your intended subject is in focus). Action shots or anything moving will be very difficult to keep in focus. Manual focus is definitely more time consuming and is more difficult to get right.

*You can see for yourself what manual focus will be like. Just switch your kit lens (18-55mm) to "M" on the lens, and you will have the ability to manually focus.

2. Sigma just released a 50mm 1.4 HSM lens ($500), though it won't be available for a month or so for Nikon cameras. HSM means that it will auto-focus on the D40 (among other things). Sigma also makes a 30mm 1.4 HSM.

If you don't like Sigma lenses (I haven't used any personally), Nikon is rumored to be releasing an AFS 50mm within a few months. Prices aren't set, but if it's released, it is likely to be between $400-$700.

Answer 2

I am in the same boat as you regarding low-light, fast lenses!  You can learn alot from Ken Rockwell about the lenses on offer, but I would also highly recommend you hire the lens you are interested in before you buy it.  For a very small cost, you will soon find out if a lens suits you, and prevent ending up with a very expensive paperweight!

Good luck!

p.s. I am hiring an AF-S 28-70 f/2.8 this weekend for a wedding - there is no way I could afford this lens, but this is a great way to get the shot I need when the occasion demands it!