> I'm kinda confused because some say 30mm is better for all round stuff but might distort faces if I get too close? Regarding what #2 said about "I agree with the previous points, but you should be careful about the technical limitations", I have found that focal length choice is usually more about the room you are in than just the glass quality. I remember my first family shoot with a 50mm; I spent the whole night squished against the kitchen cabinets trying to fit everyone in. It was a nightmare. If you want to stay under budget, check out the TTArtisan 35mm f1.8 AF Sony E. It usually runs way cheaper than the Sigma or Sony options. The build is decent and the autofocus is snappy enough for a graduation. You wont get the Optical Steady Shot, but honestly, at 35mm you dont really need it unless you are shooting video. It gives you a more natural perspective than 30mm for portraits without being as restrictive as a 50mm indoors. Its a solid middle ground for learning how a prime lens behaves without breaking the bank.

Honestly, congrats on the a6000. Its a classic but man, that kit lens is basically a paperweight for portraits. I have been through so many lenses on my old a6000 and unfortunately, the standard advice people give usually misses the mark for actual portrait work. The Sigma 30mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary Sony E is a killer lens for street stuff, but ngl, I was pretty disappointed when I tried using it for tight headshots. Its just too wide. You get that weird perspective distortion where the nose looks bigger than it is... definitely not the professional look you want for your sisters big day. Here is the reality for your budget:

• The Sony E 50mm f/1.8 OSS is probably your best bet under $250. Tbh the autofocus can be a bit sluggish and hunt-y on the older a6000 sensor, which is frustrating as hell when you are trying to catch a candid moment. Also the build feels kinda plasticky and cheap, which was a letdown for me. But the OSS is a lifesaver since the a6000 doesnt have any internal stabilization.
• If you can find a used Viltrox 56mm f/1.4 AF Sony E, grab it. I had some minor QC issues with my first copy which was a bummer, but the glass itself is way more characterful. Dont worry about the indoor space too much. You might have to stand in a corner, but that 75mm focal length equivalent is what actually gives you that blurry background and flattering face shape. The 30mm just wont give you that pop you are looking for, unfortunately.

I agree with the previous points, but you should be careful about the technical limitations of cheaper glass. Make sure to consider how focal length affects compression on that APS-C sensor.

• The Sigma 60mm f2.8 DN Art is technically superior for sharpness.
• Consider the Samyang 45mm f1.8 AF Sony E as its a safe middle ground for indoor shots. Watch out for chromatic aberration.