Is AF NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8D for this situation?
I want a portrait lens for my Nikon D3000-I'm looking for something that lets in a lot of light, which is why I like the 1.8. I want to take most head/shoulders shots, as well as full body, but obviously I need two different lenses for those so I'm focusing on the first for now. I want very high quality glass, but a lens under $250. I know that the Nikon D3000 will allow this lens to perform like a 75mm lens. I plan on using manual focus mostly.
I have the 35 mm DX for my portraits with a 1.8f and it is fantastic and very cheap
You really only need one lens, and the 50/1.8 is a great one. You can use the 50mm for full body shots as well. Unless you're in a very small space you can just take a few steps backwards.
When attached to your APS-C sensor D3000 the 50mm lens will be a short telephoto lens approximating to 75mm on a 35mm full frame Camera. This will be close to ideal for taking portraits as it will have slight perspective compression and is flattering particularly with prominent features.
the D3000 doesn't have a focus motor in-built, so you'll have no choice but to use manual focus with that lens… If you want autofocus you'll need to buy the af-s version, which will be more expensive.
The Nikon 50mm f1.8 prime is a good choice for portraits with your camera. For your budget of $250.00 you can buy the AF-S version which will auto focus on your D3000. Of course you can also use it in manual focus if you prefer.
If you want to take full body shots just back up.
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