50mm f/1.8 STM - mixed AF results

c h u n k wrote:

Alright, guess I'm going to jump on it - trusting you R2. Shot a little more with my 50 1.8 ii tonight and it just misses all the time - it's more reliable on the outer points than it is at the center point for some reason too. Seems like my t2i was even a little better with it. I keep hearing people saying the stm is way more reliable and I cant resist.

Yeah, know where you're coming from.  I've had two 50/1.8 II lenses.  One was pretty good, and one was just terrible (AF was all over the place).  I've been wanting a good 50 for quite some time now.  Took a chance on the new 50 STM (pre-ordered it even), and it has not disappointed.

Sure, the IQ has its predictable niggles due to the inherent design of the lens (some purple fringing in high contrast areas, and some halation at large apertures), but IMHO it's a really solid (reliable) lens and a real pleasure to use.  The AF consistency has a lot to do with that of course (it's as good as my 40 STM).

Have you done many close up - headshot length with it at 2.8 or wider? Was it as good there?

This focal length on crop really does naturally lend itself to portraits.  I've been shooting everything at f/2 (primarily in low light).  Here's a typical 100% crop (70D @ ISO 1600)...

100% crop.  70D with the 50/1.8 STM, 1/125 sec @ f/2, ISO 1600.

Pretty flat lighting (sorry).

No sharpening or noise reduction.  Click on "original size."

Hope this helps.  Good luck in your quest.

R2