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.
I like what DaveDitzer suggested although have never used them but they cost and weigh less. It would be nice to see photos of what the lenses produce. I notice that most of my shots are taken at less than 100mm.
I just recently purchased a AF-S Nikkor 60mm F2.8 made in Thailand is said to be sharp and can take close ups at very short distances ~ 1.5" for 1:1 and does very well for portraits at normal distances. It is light at 15 oz. I need to get my grandson and take some photos with each.
What "DavyDitzer" and "home brewer" said. What fits the bill for what you want or need works for you.
I am independent too, I prefer the weight to give me stabiity so I can get photos that I want. Not all of my lenses have VR, so stable is the answer. I also prefer the 2.8 Zoom lenses, then I have proof that I really am not a photographer Lol . . .
I am 86 so I get to be shakey sometimes and take time to relax. The Zoom lenses reach out where I can get photos that I could never get, trying to walk there.
Where did you buy it and or go to a camera store and I am sure they will help you with it
rpm wrote:
So, I broke down & purchased a D850 after shooting 18 years with my D40X. The new one has so many buttons & it's heavy! 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?
You can use it to "scan" color negative film.
Read the book with the camera in your hands and try each function as you read that section. It's just a few electrons and this began my muscle memory of handling the controls. The expected shutter life is very high. You won't wear it out.
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