What camera? On an APS size sensor camera, the 50 becomes a 75 and the 85 becomes a 127. Which would be a better focal length for you and consider there is about an $800 difference.

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Given the choice of buying one more lense(yeah, right). Which lense would be the better lense? 50mm 1.4 or 80mm 1.4

This lense would be used for things like 'star trails', 'sunsets at the lake', and 'low light' needs.

Sorry, should have mentioned the camera is a Sony a350. Was thinking about the cost, but I'll only buy one of them, and was hoping it would 'cover' the items listed above.

Quote:
What camera? On an APS size sensor camera, the 50 becomes a 75 and the 85 becomes a 127. Which would be a better focal length for you and consider there is about an $800 difference.

Quote:
Given the choice of buying one more lense(yeah, right). Which lense would be the better lense? 50mm 1.4 or 80mm 1.4

This lense would be used for things like 'star trails', 'sunsets at the lake', and 'low light' needs.

One thing to consider first of all -- do you really need the f/1.4? The zooms of today with wider openings are a thing to consider.

Here is something that may help your decision:

http://www.tcinternet.net/users/nmolson/lenses.htm
and perhaps:

http://www.adorama.com/catalog.tpl?article=022708&op=academy_new

I have the 'zooms' pretty much covered. Was just wanting to go with a fixed lense that has more options when it comes to speed. My 70-300mm Sigma is dark when you try to stop a hummingbirds wingbeat. Yes, I could 'lighten it up' in the computer, but it just isn't the same....

Thanks for the links though, interesting reading.

Scott (maybe the 50?) B

Getting a 1.4 lens is not going to help with the Humming Bird issue. With the bigger aperture you also trim down the depth of field. If you already need that fast lens for the lighting, you still need a good bit of shutter to stop a humming birds wings. If you ever see a great Humming Bird image and the wings are almost frozen... make sure you look carefully and see if the photographer used a fill flash or strobe. Otherwise, its very unlikely you are going to freeze a humming bird motion. Even with a 1.2 lens it wont happen

Ended up with the Sigma 50mm f/2.8 for the Sony! The macro stuff I've taken in RAW can't be loaded into my laptop, and I'm working that issue(okay, I'm waiting for Sony to return a few emails).
Playing with the lense I noticed I don't have to race against the afternoon light to get some great shots....and I'm still fumbling through the camera settings and need all the time I can get.

Thanks to all that gave an opinion, everything you guys gave me for input was used to save a few bucks....so I guess I'll have enough funds to get another lense now!?!?!

Scott (like the new box smell) B