How do I cure this?

[mc1979]

I'm so aggrevated with myself, so this is basically a rant. I just got my 50mm lens in the other day, and am loving it! But I still find myself getting too close to my subjects! I know this is so stupid for me to even post this here, but is that a common mistake beginners make? It's like I'm scared if I stand too far away, I'll lose the focus in the eyes.

 

[tirediron]

Practice! For large apertures where DoF is critical, use a single focusing point and compose the image such that the point is over the area of critical focus.

 

[Vtec44]

On my prime lens, I find that the distance between me and the subject is based on how I want to frame the subject. I usually take a few pictures at different distances if I'm unsure about the clarity. As long as I can see the catch light and it's large enough, I'm happy. That's just my newbie opinion though.

 

[KmH]

You should also consider that not all print sizes have the same aspect ratio.

Consequently, room has to be allowed in the viewfinder to accommodate the differnt crops needed. The concept is also known as 'shooting fat'.

 

[cnutco]

The nifty50 can be a bit close to the subject at times. I would much rather use my zooms to give them some space. If you like primes, you should try the 85mm out. It will give you the space you need between you and your subject.

 

[mc1979]

Thanks for the comments. I'm going to keep practicing!

Cnutco, thanks for the tip with the 85mm. If I bought another lens right now my hubby would kill me! LOL