I'm not sure that I would disagree with the underrated part. I find a lot of folks talking about the almost mystical qualities of lenses like the Ltd's and the 77-this or the 31-that but seldom see genuine praise for a 50 in threads that ask "What is the best lens for Portraits?" or "If you could only have one lens for....?"
I fully realize that 50s are the most common lens in existence for SLRs because they were the "kit" lens back in the film days. But, perhaps that level of availability and familiarity have caused some level of contempt for it? Or, perhaps its just the "I don't want to belong to any club that would have me as a member" syndrome and because its not exclusive it's not praised to high-heaven like those that are more scarce?
I own 4 Fast-Fifties - I was given an M50/2, I purchased by Super-Tak 50/1.4 and 55/1.8 and love each of their unique vision, and purchased by FA50/1.4 because I needed both low light and AF. If I had to pick just one lens it would be the FA50/1.4 because of the combination of things it brings to the table. I think I like the rendering better of the 55/1.8 but for use with kids and such the FA becomes the deciding factor for me.
So, I do think 50s are under-appreciated, neglected no, but under-appreciated.
Last edited by Docrwm; 06-15-2011 at 09:19 PM.