Many thanks to the photoweenies who chimed in on my 50mm f/1.8 v. the new 35mm f/1.8 dilemma. Based on the feedback, I’m a fool to waffle because other than the person on the Amazon.com forum who ignored my $200 budget and told me to buy both lenses, everyone recommended the new 35mm f/1.8.
To summarize the many helpful suggestions:
–Everyone who had a Nikon or Canon variation of a 50mm f/1.8 said they loved the lens. Great for portraits, sharp, light and good for indoor shots. Hey, if you have another $130, get this lens too.
–Aside from aforementioned Richie Rich, everyone who made a recommendation opted for he 35mm f/1.8. The consensus was that the 35mm (53mm equivalent) would be ideal for street photography and would take good portraits too.
My sense is that even without sample shots and extensive reviews, Nikon’s track record of high quality glass makes the classic spec lens a sure bet. In my poking around I was reminded that a ~50mm prime was the predominant lens for Henri Cartier-Bresson and fellow Magnum photographers–and hey, who can argue with them?

DP Review does have some straight out of the camera sample shots here.

You can pre-order the lens (scheduled ship date “late” March) at Adorama.

Thanks for all the suggestions!

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