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Photography Question 

Lori Teller
 

macro & wide angles lenses for D70


I have been shooting photos with a Nikon D70 since last May. I would like to acquire a macro lens and a wide angle lens for my camera. Suggestions for which ones are good. I'm willing to spend $200-300 on each lens. Thanks, Lori


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March 08, 2005

 

Michael H. Cothran
  Nikon has arguably produced the finest macro (they call them "micro") lenses for the past 40 years. I would buy Nikon brand if you can swing the moola. Their current crop consists of 3 (I own all three of them, plus two older MF versions) - the 60mm/2.8, 105mm/2.8, and the 200/4 ED.
Unfortunately, you will not own any of them for $200, so if that is your budget limit, just hold onto your money, and save. As an alternative you might find a used version on Ebay. But new, with USA warranty, the 60mm is about $350, the 105mm about $550, and the 200mm is about $1400.
Tamron and Sigma offer macro lenses in similar focal lengths, and probably offer pretty good results.
Good Luck,
Michael H. Cothran
www.mhcphoto.net


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March 09, 2005

 

Lori Teller
  Thanks Michael, I appreciate your help. I'm willing to make the stretch for the 60 mm. Lori


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March 09, 2005

 

Michael H. Cothran
  Lori,
You never really stated what your intent for the macro lens is. Any of the 3 Nikon micros are really as good as they get. But, your subject matter may play an important role in deciding which of the micros to start with. While I love the 200, I can certainly understand that it's price is out of range for many shooters. I use it strictly for flowers. The long focal length throws everything else out of focus. The 105 is also a great all-around lens. It will also provide out-of-focus areas (just not as pronounced as the 200). It also serves as a great "portrait" lens. I use it to photograph jewelry in particular, and also use it in the field for flower shots. The 60 is the normal "first" macro that most people buy. It is incredibly sharp, and great for scenics as well as close-ups. I use the 55/60 for studio work, such as flower arrangements, arts & crafts pieces, Ebay shots, etc.
Which one you start with should be determined by what your need and/or desire for the lens is. If it's strictly financial, then go for the 60 to start. You won't be sorry with any of them.
Michael H. Cothran
www.mhcphoto.net
PS - check out my website. All the Jury photos were taken with either the 55/60 or the 105. Many of the flower shots in the Fine Art section were taken with the 200 or 55/60.


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March 09, 2005

 

Lori Teller
  I would probably use it mostly for scenics, insects (mostly butterflies), and flowers. There is a camera exchange store that sells good quality used lenses so I may be able to find one of the more expensive lenses there for less also. I will definitely take a look at your website. I appreciate all your help. What wide angle lenses do you like? Lori


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March 09, 2005

 
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