Do-All Lens for D7200
Nov 28, 2015 14:04:08 #
I have been on the search for a new camera and have been going back and forth between mirrorless and DSLR. I think, for my purposes, I am leaning pretty heavily toward a Nikon D7200. Based on what I've been reading about "kit" lenses, it sounds like they're not terribly good lenses. But what I've been looking at, and what appears to be a very good lens is the Nikkor AF-S DX 18--300mm f/3.5--6.3 ED VR zoom lens. It supposedly works well at very close up shots. Just wondering what any of you have to say about this lens, or should I go with 2 or 3 other lenses. Oh, and I'm not to concerned about the weight of the combination of camera and zoom lens. Thanks.
Nov 28, 2015 14:10:51 #
Really depends on what you are planning to shoot, and where.
If you dismiss the 'kit' lens, then a 'do-all' lens is likely going to make even bigger compromises than the kit. However, if stopping to change lenses is inconvenient (or even dangerous), then a do-everything might be perfect. If I was on a family vacation, then an all-in-one would be an attractive option, since the fam wouldn't have to stop and wait for me to change lenses.
Again, it really depends on what you specifically need.
If you dismiss the 'kit' lens, then a 'do-all' lens is likely going to make even bigger compromises than the kit. However, if stopping to change lenses is inconvenient (or even dangerous), then a do-everything might be perfect. If I was on a family vacation, then an all-in-one would be an attractive option, since the fam wouldn't have to stop and wait for me to change lenses.
Again, it really depends on what you specifically need.
Nov 28, 2015 14:11:41 #
No single lens does all but I think the Nikon 17-55mm f/2.8 should pair well with the D7200.
Nov 28, 2015 14:14:18 #
BebuLamar wrote:
No single lens does all but I think the Nikon 17-55mm f/2.8 should pair well with the D7200.
I'd like to maybe go beyond the kit lens offerings. Changing lenses can be an inconvenience, but not a serious one.
Nov 28, 2015 14:15:42 #
Peeb wrote:
Really depends on what you are planning to shoot, ... (show quote)
The reason I'm attracted to the 18--300 is to be able to zoom in on a subject without having to take the time to change lenses and maybe lose a shot. In the end, I will, no doubt, acquire other lenses for specific uses.
Nov 28, 2015 14:29:21 #
Far North wrote:
The reason I'm attracted to the 18--300 is to be able to zoom in on a subject without having to take the time to change lenses and maybe lose a shot. In the end, I will, no doubt, acquire other lenses for specific uses.
I'd like one for that reason as well.
I've been looking at a sigma 17-70 f2.8-4 myself. Just slightly more coverage than the 'kit' 18-55 but faster (wider aperture, for lower light shots). Honestly, any zoom includes compromise, and the most discerning photographer loves prime lenses (check my sig- I am apparently not discerning!).
You also need to consider bokeh, when is subjective.
You also need to consider sharpness at the edges (a common problem with super-zooms at the extreme focal lengths).
Distortion (both barrel and pin-cushion) are an issue (tho this might be somewhat correctable in lightroom or photoshop).
Re-sale value is worth thinking about.
It's really far from simple. Can you rent and try prior to jumping in?
Nov 28, 2015 14:33:24 #
Far North wrote:
I have been on the search for a new camera and hav... (show quote)
Take a good look at the Tamron 16-300mm VC lens, its a very good lens overall and does go a little wider. Right now there is a special $130 Rebate on them taking the $629 price down to only $499. That makes it a real bargain!
Nov 28, 2015 14:37:33 #
Peeb wrote:
I'd like one for that reason as well. br br I've ... (show quote)
I realize that there are always compromises with something that "does all." That is why I do a lot of research and question asking of those with experience with whatever it is I am looking at before making my decision. Up here, 200, 210mm is probably just fine for most situations, but there are so many opportunities for wildlife and bird shots that involve long distances, that really need a long lens to bring in. For example, caribou are wary critters, and trying to sneak up on one 400 yards away over open ground is a losing proposition, whereas having a long telephoto will cover a lot of distance without having to crawl on one's belly a long way to get a shot.
I don't know that renting a lens here is possible, although I haven't been to the only camera shop in Anchorage to ask.
Nov 28, 2015 14:42:44 #
Far North wrote:
I realize that there are always compromises with s... (show quote)
Your needs seem wholly consistent with you you describe. Let us know what you decide!
Nov 28, 2015 14:42:47 #
Far North wrote:
I have been on the search for a new camera and hav... (show quote)
I use an 28~300 for my daily carry everywhere lens. That is on a D700 FX. Additionally, I carry a 20mm. The ratio of lens usage between the two is 0.1% for the 20mm.
So, your looking at a 18~300 is a good choice. Do some research as to the good and bad points of that particular lens and see if the characteristics are suitable for your use.
--Bob
Nov 28, 2015 15:10:58 #
rmalarz wrote:
I use an 28~300 for my daily carry everywhere lens. That is on a D700 FX. Additionally, I carry a 20mm. The ratio of lens usage between the two is 0.1% for the 20mm.
So, your looking at a 18~300 is a good choice. Do some research as to the good and bad points of that particular lens and see if the characteristics are suitable for your use.
--Bob
So, your looking at a 18~300 is a good choice. Do some research as to the good and bad points of that particular lens and see if the characteristics are suitable for your use.
--Bob
Thanks for the info.
Nov 28, 2015 15:12:07 #
MT Shooter wrote:
Take a good look at the Tamron 16-300mm VD lens, its a very good lens overall and does go a little wider. Right now there is a special $130 Rebate on them taking the $629 price down to only $499. That makes it a real bargain!
:thumbup: :thumbup: :thumbup: :thumbup: :thumbup:
Nov 28, 2015 15:14:12 #
Far North wrote:
I have been on the search for a new camera and hav... (show quote)
This was shot handheld, from a kayak, at 300mm with the 18-300, on a D7100.
It was cropped considerably.
The lens is not perfect, but when I need to travel light, it does very well.
Nov 28, 2015 15:48:17 #
moonhawk wrote:
This was shot handheld, from a kayak, at 300mm with the 18-300, on a D7100.
It was cropped considerably.
The lens is not perfect, but when I need to travel light, it does very well.
It was cropped considerably.
The lens is not perfect, but when I need to travel light, it does very well.
Nice!
Nov 28, 2015 17:20:54 #
I have the 18-300 f3.5-6.3 on my Nikon D7100 and am very happy with this combo. Think you will enjoy it too. :thumbup:
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