Telephoto Zoom Advice for Nikon
Jul 24, 2017 08:22:13 #
Over the weekend, I posted an inquiry containing several questions including one about the purchase of a Nikon 70-300 FX zoom for my d7100. Several of you questioned the quality of the lens and suggested a 70-200 zoom. I"ve done a little research and see there are a number of offerings from Nikon, Sigma, Tamron, and Tokina with minimum apertures of 2.8 or 4.0. Some with and without VR. The long range plan is to purchase a 300 or higher lens at some poiint. My budget dictates a used lens. The newer Nikon zooms are way over the budget. I'll use this lens almost exclusively outside. Suggestions please before I go crazy with all the choices?
Jul 24, 2017 08:27:18 #
Jul 24, 2017 08:40:02 #
If the 70-300 FX VR lens is what you had in mind I simply cannot understand how someone, familiar with this lens, could question its optical quality.
This particular lens is sharp, light and convenient as a tele zoom. I have seen reports of its "softness" at 300mm but that has not been my experience. I have several prints from this lens and the quality is there.
The 70-200 VR seems as an exceptional lens if you do not need more than 200mm. I use an old 80-400 VR that has covered nicely my wildlife shots.
A prime 300mm is perhaps what you need.
This particular lens is sharp, light and convenient as a tele zoom. I have seen reports of its "softness" at 300mm but that has not been my experience. I have several prints from this lens and the quality is there.
The 70-200 VR seems as an exceptional lens if you do not need more than 200mm. I use an old 80-400 VR that has covered nicely my wildlife shots.
A prime 300mm is perhaps what you need.
Jul 24, 2017 08:41:21 #
Go with a used Nikon 70-200 f4 VR. Lighter and less costly than the f2.8 (which I have) but still professional quality. The 200 on a crop sensor is plenty of reach for most things. Perhaps a 1.4 tel extender at some point.
Jul 24, 2017 08:42:21 #
bobgreen wrote:
Over the weekend, I posted an inquiry containing ... (show quote)
Take a look at the new Tamron 18-400mm lens. All the range you could ask for, sharp, and only $649.
Jul 24, 2017 09:12:05 #
jackpinoh
Loc: Kettering, OH 45419
bobgreen wrote:
Over the weekend, I posted an inquiry containing ... (show quote)
I have a 300mm lens on a 1.5 crop sensor camera like the D7100. If you are planning to use this lens to photograph animals and birds (it is NOT a landscape lens), you will be very disappointed. The field of view is too wide for wildlife. Renting one for a day or even testing one on your camera in the store will confirm this. Save your money for a used 150-600mm lens or stick to family, landscape, and street photography.
Jul 25, 2017 05:49:02 #
Jul 25, 2017 06:16:48 #
I have the Nikon 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 AF-S VR lens. It's remarkable what Nikon was able to do considering it's only $497. It cost more when I purchased it. They recently introduced the 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6E AF-P lens. It has an electronically controlled aperture and a stepping motor.
Jul 25, 2017 06:44:52 #
bobgreen wrote:
Over the weekend, I posted an inquiry containing ... (show quote)
First of all, the new "replacement" version of the Nikon 70-300 is reputed to be much better than the older one, which was little more than a "kit" lens. Personally, I have the older version of the 80-300mm lens (a full frame) and it is heads and shoulders better than the DX (crop sensor) version of the old 70-300. Yes I have both and the 70-300 has become my "wife's lens" and is in her bag along with her 18-70mm lens. Both are serviceable but there are better (and more expensive) Nikkor lenses available. My 80-400 has been surpassed but not replaced by a newer. faster focusing and "better" version that has a "SWM" silent wave motor built-in. But, it also costs $1000 more, especially if you get the older one used as I did.
Jul 25, 2017 07:09:11 #
I would look for a used Tamron, first version 150-600mm lens. They are available since the second generation came out. If you can afford it, get the second generation, if budget is tight, get a used first generation. I'm sure oyu can get for a little more than a new good quality 70-300mm and you will be happy to have the range on the 150-600mm lens.
Jul 25, 2017 07:24:08 #
This shot was taken with the Nikon 70-300mm FX lens on a D7000 camera hand held with deer at about 50 yards shot at 300mm. Though I don't have the camera anymore I still keep this lens as it is one of Nikon hidden gem in lenses (low cost and extremely effective even on my D810 FF or D500 DX).
bobgreen wrote:
Over the weekend, I posted an inquiry containing ... (show quote)
Jul 25, 2017 07:35:19 #
I have been very happy with Nikkor my AF 80~200 f/2.8D and AFS 300 f/4D ED-IF with/without TC17II. I have not been in any situations that the kit failed me. The lenses are sharp and the images have enough detail to crop in if necessary. I bought all used in an near new condition.
Jul 25, 2017 09:07:23 #
Archboo3
Loc: Central Florida
I am using a Sigma 120-300 2.8. I use it for sports and wildlife. The one I have is the Pro sports version. You can also purchase a computer dock for it. The dock let's you program the lens for your specific camera. I am very Happy with my. I have had it for over a year now, and once I got use to handling the larger lens, it's been great. you must use at least a Monopod with it.
Jul 25, 2017 09:26:18 #
bobgreen wrote:
Over the weekend, I posted an inquiry containing ... (show quote)
https://fstoppers.com/originals/tamron-vs-nikon-which-70-200mm-f28-telephoto-lens-best-money-171839
http://www.whatdigitalcamera.com/roundup/lens-roundup/best-70-200mm-tele-zoom-lenses-64789
https://petapixel.com/2015/03/28/just-the-lenses-the-great-200mm-shoot-out/
Jul 25, 2017 11:22:20 #
I did a bit of research, and bought a refurbished Nikon 70-300 f4.5 -5.6 VR II IF-ED for my Nikon 7100. I think it is an awesome lens. Compact and lightweight. I use it for handheld bird photos.
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