[quote=selmslie]We [should] already know that visible noise (signal to noise ratio aka S/N or SNR) is the determined by exposure, not ISO.

When I view images on my monitor, especially images of people wearing black clothing, the noise is very visible in the clothing. Therefore I conclude from your explanation, I should expose for the dark clothing and then post process to darken the overexposed skin tones?

why did you post this?

To offer another perspective to OP: if you are weight sensitive remember as pointed out, the 24-70 and 70-200 f2.8 lenses are heavy. I had a 24-70 f2.8 and sold it because I didn't feel like I got the benefit of this zoom for the weight I had to carry vs. a 50mm f1.4 and a 28mm f2.8. I also opted for the 70-200 f4. I do not doubt that the 2.8 zooms so often mentioned by Hoggers are both good glass. I just didn't feel like the return was worth the burden. Buy a used example so if you decide it's not for you, selling it will cost less than doing so with a new lens. Plus remember the D850, while a marvelous camera is also substantial.
I have an outing planned where I want the resolution of the D850 for a large print. I plan to carry a 20mmf2.8, 28mm f2.8, 50mm f1.4 and an 85mm f1.8. Without picking nits on the total weight, these 4 lenses are not much more than a 1st class 24-70 f2.8 and after this particular outing, I'm not carrying the weight of the 24-70 all the time. PS I do have a 24-120 f4 when I want the flexibility). Just my perspective and my own desires. Everyone has to decide what they want to accomplish and what the cost (weight and $$) will be.

Not to argue, but a counterpoint from my use when my camera location is fixed then I use the zoom (200-500) to frame the shot.

Glad to join you in this rant. I find the ads obnoxious. I joke when they start, "Hey is that the woman with crotch rot?"

Can't wait to do something with it but think I'm gonna need a lesson or two... any suggestions to get me up to speed?[/quote]

When I got my D850, I learned a few functions and used the camera and then, reading the manual and Busch's book, studied a few functions and worked those into my routine. Doing this on a leisurely schedule worked for me.

Sorry to burst your bubble. Most of us have been in your shoes. Everything sells, if the price is right.[/quote]

been there, done that.
I recommend that you keep documents of your original cost in case you sell to EBay or other site who may report sales. This happened to me when I helped out a friend's estate. Ebay sent me notice of sales receipts as income, but I tallied all that with the costs of sales and original price and ended up with a business loss for the tax return.

I have used a 40mm f2.8 Nikon DX macro lens and have been very satisfied.

There have been times when I've followed this advice to my regret. I tend to leave some "room" especially when I shooting with my 45mp body.

Remember, when seconds count, the police are minutes away!

I agree that learning more about carrying if one chooses to so is an important topic. Like photography it's often about more than equipment - training, learning the law and understanding the aftermath should it happen.

I believe in open carry in principle, but these days it's a snatch and grab invitation.

I have a Nikon 55-300 DX lens in almost new condition that I rarely use. If interested, PM me.

It's just common sense if you are lugging $5-10 M in equipment with you. I'd carry if I were lugging that much cash, so why not the same rational with cameras.

Fellow UHH members are always willing to spend someone else's money. OP: it's your money and your set of criteria. Time for some research on your own depending upon your needs, desires.