What to rent

The 85 f1.4 or 1.8 would be a nice portrait lens. The 85/1.8 you can buy for less than $400 .

 

Owning both a 105 and an 85mm, I would recommend the 85mm. If you keep your eyes open, you can find used 85/1.8's for around $250-275. :smile:

 

i think the best buy in renting is the 85/1.4 or the 70-200VR. Both are super lenses that can be had here in San Francisco for $30 for the weekend or per day (sometimes less if on special). I have the 70-200 and find it great when I want to be further from my subject and I had the 85/1.4 but replaced it with the 85/1.8 so I could pick up some flashes w/ the savings. Your 50 should also be good on digital. I'd also go with others in suggesting picking up the 85/1.8 used when you find one. Great bang for the buck, much like the 50/1.8, and it's very versatile for a variety subjects and light-conditions.

I also have the 105 micro, and while i find it super for macro shots, don't like it as much for people. If you like that focal length, I'd suggest the 105 f2 DC lens, which was designed more with people in mind.

Good luck,
Brian

 

I would second the 85/1.4, they don't call it the cream machine for nothing. BUT, I rented the 17-55 f2.8 and had a wonderful time taking portraits with that lens. The zoom really helps with the framing and the bokeh seemed good enough for me. Check out lensprotogo.com, very respectable and reserved the lens for me when I had an event to shoot.

example of portrait.
D80, f/4, 1/250, ISO 280, No Flash

 

Renting is not a bad way to go depending on your needs, but I would second getting an 85 1.8 now, you can always resell it later for about what you pay for it now. Any difference would surely be less than the rental fee.

A quick search on Ebay finds this one. Buy it now $250. Or even a new one on KEH is only $385. Rentals can range from 30-60 a week. Even buying that $250 lens and selling it after a month of use for $200 would cost less.

 

I bought 85 1.8 here and absolutely love it. It was the lens I used during a track meet when I wanted to get that perfect printable photo.

 

If I were renting for portraiture I would go

85 1.4
105 vr
28-70 2.8
70-200 2.8

JMHO