Mark7829 wrote:
I am considering Nikon 24-85 f/3.5-4.5 ED VR or Nikon 24-85 f/2.8-4.0 D or Nikon 24-70 f/2.8. The 24-70 is by far the most expensive and it does have 2.8 through the range, but is their much difference between f/2.8 and 3.5 and 4.0?
Here is an option. Find a used Nikon 35-70mm f2.8D for about $300-350. It is an older but sharp and "beefy" lens. You lose some on the wide end but you can use it for a while and see if a constant 2.8 makes a difference for you. I have both the 35-70 and the 24-70 f2.8s. I still use the 35-70 if weight is a factor. It is still a heavy lens but not as big and bulky as the 24-70.