85 1.8 vs Sigma 50 1.4 on Crop: Pros/Cons (ignoring FL differences)

Considering either the Sigma 1.4 or the Canon 85 1.8 as my first prime lens. I shoot indoors and outdoors - mostly family pics (3 and 4 yr olds) but also enjoy nature/landscape shots.

Current lenses are 24-105 and 10-22. I have a 50d.

I'm looking for pros/cons of each lens given my situation. I already know many believe 85 is too long on a crop. I'd rather get your pros/cons of each without any arguments based on focal length. The FL question is one I'll have to decide on based on reviewing how I normally shoot.

Also, not interested in other prime FL's at this time (ie, 35 or 135).

So, what are your thoughts? I have checked past threads and inevitably it morphs into a discussion about why 50 is better on crop due to 1.6 magnification.

Thx.

Just had a sutudent over who found 50mm too long for indoor portraits and was asking about alternatives for their crop body.

There's not much to say. The size of the indoor location matters alot. You are absolutely right 85mm is darn long on a 1.6

Both are extremely good pieces of glass assuming the Sigma has no issues.

had the sigma 50 on a crop body and it was fantastic. Then I went FF and this is where the lens shines. It's almost magical.

85mm was too long on crop, but if you're using strictly for portraits or to be a stalker, it'll serve the purpose well.

The 85 1.8 was my first prime and I found it a pleasure to learn to use. Easy to AF, nice sharp and vibrant pictures (though not as sharp as the 135 2.0). As my kids are running around, hardly keeping still for a fraction of a second, I find my 85 easy to use to capture the moment. Obviously tighter framing on indoors, but personally I like that look. When I hike with my kids in the woods, I usually have the 85 on, because it balances nicely with general nature and children outdoor play.

(ignore the processing, this is a response to the "too long for indoors" argument.)

Here's the 85mm in a small dining room (uncropped):

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Trying to shoot 3 and 4 year olds is tough. The 85 focuses a bit faster than the Sigma, although not that much faster. But trying to get shots of kids, speed of focusing is one aspect that will improve your number of keepers. So every little bit will help.

My answer doesn't necessarily relate specifically to crop v. FF though.

For both outdoors and indoors you will need something less than 50mm on crop and something longer like 85mm f1.8. So I will say Sigma 30mm f1.4 and canon 85mm f1.8.

bobbyz wrote in post #9526469
For both outdoors and indoors you will need something less than 50mm on crop and something longer like 85mm f1.8. So I will say Sigma 30mm f1.4 and canon 85mm f1.8.

+1000..... this the perfect setup for primes on crop.

^i agree! (30 + 85)

itmfl wrote in post #9527084
^i agree! (30 + 85)

uhhh... me too. haha.

Sometimes I wish I had my 50 still...
and i want a 135...