I shoot my granddaughter's recital every year and borrowed a 200mm 2.8 (one year), which worked. I found that my 18-200mm f3.5 worked as well, using ISO of 1600-3200. I prefer using the incandescent white balance in manual mode, everything is subjective. I usually windup sitting about half way back and can get good shots without bothering other people. I use a D300s and shoot in RAW. I like the variable lens since it gives me the ability to zoom in if I so choose. I also would like to get a faster lens for low level light. Good luck.

Originally used a Nikon FE2. then Nikon d50 and now Nikon D300s.

I have the 70-300mm which I use on a D300s. It works fine and the shots are sharp and clean. I have had this lens since it came out and it has given me good performance.

I use a NIKKOR 18-200mm f3.5 VRII on my D300s which works well with no noticeable barrel flair. It is nice and sharp and have had good results. For a longer lens I use a NIKKOR 70-300mm f4.5 VR, but the 18-200 is mounted 95% of the time.

I agree with the bent arm. Young girls seem to be able to bend therir arms like that. It's something to watch for. I had the same thing happen to me with my granddaughter. Yes a longer focal length is much better for portraits.

Having just joined I'm taking in the info. I currently use a Nikon D300s, came up from a D50 two years ago. I use it with the NIKKOR 28-200 VRII. I do have the 70-300 VRII also and was thinking of getting a TC 1.4 since I can't afford good long glass at this time (retired income). I do love my D300s and am getting better with using manual and metering or priority modes.

You are right on both occasions.

Thanks for the welcome. here are three more from the same trip to Ithaca NY and the Finger Lakes. These were taken in aperture priority. With my now knowledge, from reading and practice, I would have shot in manual and taken meter readings a little differently.

chasim above the falls




caught fisherman further down stream

I'm in agreement with the different settings issue. I think both cameras should be in full manual mode with the same settings for a true comparison.
With all the reading and experimenting I've been doing lately I've gone to using full manual or one of the priority modes (aperture or Shutter).
I have found some good books by Bryan Peterson on exposure, flash, and composition.

I have purchased all my gear from B&H. I worked in the city at that time and if you ever get to go to the store it's quite a trip. Staff is very knowledgeable and help full. You can also call and they will answer any questions for you.

I've just gotten back into photography in the last two years, after I retired. I'm interested in nature, landscape, and portrait photography. My equipment is a Nikon D300s with the following lenses; All NIKKOR, 40mm f2.8 with Macro, 70mm-300mm f4.5 VR II, 28mm-200mm f3.5 VR II. My flash is a Nikon SB900. My backup is a Nikon D50 (purchased before the D300s) with more NIKKOR lenses.
I'm hoping to learn much and share.