BetterPhoto Q&A
Category: New Answers

Photography Question 

Cheryl Flood
 

Decision on Lens for Nikon D70s


I am purchasing a Nikon D70s and thought I had it narrowed down on what lens to purchase, but after reading reviews and posting a question earlier, I'm wondering if I can do better than my original choice.

First off, I'm aspiring to be a serious hobbyist but am starting a level much lower. I have a film SLR and am making a big move to a DSLR. I would like to do portraiture, as I have two kids and mainly shoot photos of them, family events, etc. I want to do most of them without flash.

So here's what I came up with:

1. Nikon 50mm f/1.8D (to be used for portraits of people/close ups.)

and either

2. Tamron 18-200 f3.5-6.3 blablabla
OR
3. Tamron 28-200 f/3.8-5.6 macro
OR
4. Nikon 28-200 mm f/3.5-5.6D


I simply can't find a lens that's like 18-150 or something. They don't seem to exist or if they do, they're not in my price range!

Imagine a mom sitting on the side lines during swim lessons, soccer games, at the park, or doing a more formal photo shoot. This is the primary use of any lens I choose ($500 is the budget.) I want to be able to get those beautiful portrait head/shoulder shots with the background all fuzzed out (thus my desire for the Nikon 50mm prime lens).

Anyway, suggestions? I'm wearing myself out looking at reviews, and all the different lenses out there. I'm stalled by indecision and would just like to go ahead with a purchase and live to not regret it! lol!


To love this question, log in above
0
May 18, 2006

 

Jon Close
  Sigma's 18-125 f/3.5-5.6 DC is virtually the same as 18-150. 18-200 also isn't much different than 18-150 and people tend to like the longer range. Tamron and Sigma each make one that is f/3.5-6.3. Nikon's own 18-200 is the cream of this class, but is more expensive because it has VR, AF-S ("Silent Wave") focus motor, is f/5.6 at the long end rather than f/6.3, and demand so far outstrips supply.


To love this comment, log in above
0
May 18, 2006

 
Log in to respond or ask your own question.