I had maybe a minor problem. But really even if you don't have a problem, there must be a reason they are replacing the shutter. I sent mine in Monday, notified they are serving it now, and I expect it back next week. They pay the shipping. fixing even if out of warranty. Plus it is a cleaning and inspection. I would just take advantage of it to limit future risk. This link might get you there www.nikonusa.com/service or call (800) 645-6687
Sent my in Monday. they are cleaning inspecting and replacing the shutter. All without really admitting to a problem other than dust does get in in some environments. They pay the shipping if you go thought their return process.
I bought one with my D90 never used it. Bought one with my D600. Sure they cost a some money, but give a lot peace of mind if you drop them. I decided a long time ago that my equipment whether cheap or expensive will go with me regardless of the terrain, risk etc. No sense having good stuff, then leaving it at home because I t might get banged around, stolen or lost at sea.
Wouldn't that 17-70 be pretty good for the family photos. Otherwise I am pretty happy with a 1.8 50mm for interior. Are you still looking for a tripod. Ken Rockwell had this
Aiptek ZAC-STD-5 Lightweight Aluminum Tripod with 3-Way Pan Head - Max Height: 49.25", Max Load: 4.4 lb.
thttp://www.adorama.com/TPAIP50.html?emailprice=t&utm_term=Other&utm_medium=Affiliate&utm_campaign=Other&utm_source=rflaid21866oday as a perfectly good tripod for $6 from adorama
I have a carry permit. Sig P238 is very light, very small, very good, very expensive. Also the P938 is ever so slightly larger in a 9mm.
One Reason I really like having the 70-200 zoom, was that it allowed me to shoot from a distance and often over the heads of the masses, thus cropping them out in advance. Just look for ways to get up higher than the crowd. And if you are patient, opportunities will open to get that clear shot close in too.
We were in Rome in September. Tons of small shops with to go windows. Pizza and gelato every time I turned around. Plus great processed meats- procuito, salami, and more
You Tube had videos of the Chainpod.
I have an Enduro Monopod. Small. Light. Collapses. Wear it on your hip with a belt. Plus it doubles as a bit of a walking stick. There was a UHH thread on Chainpods the other day. This might be enough.. About $5 of parts. I am going to set one up and try it.
In Rome I carried a 1.8 50mm for interior and a 2.8 70-200mm for outside. Was very happy with this combo. Our group of 3 couples had at least 3 backpacks. We did leave them on the bus a couple of times as requested, then I just pocketed the 50MM. Plan to get a lot of pizza from the street vendors. It will largely ruin you for pizza when you get back home.
If you get to Rockwell see what he says about the 18-200 and the 18-300. These are good zooms- fill in with a couple if great primes. Consider a refurb 7100 body only and get the lense you really want. I have had good experiences buying used lenses.
Maybe adjusting your white balance on the camera settings when using this lens would help.
I do enjoy the low light capabiity and quality of the 70-200 VR, but... there are days I kind of wish I just had the 18 or 28 - 200 or 300. No more swapping lenses, carrying less weight. If I were buying a new 7100, I would take a look at a used/refurbished D600. I have one, no problems. Get one made closer to the end of the production. Join the FX world from the get go. Sensor size does matter.
I love that lense on my d600 and my d90 before that. I wouldn't get rid if it or wish I hadn't bought it. There are times I wish I had just one lense to deal with instead if switching back and forth to a wide. Depending on your style and use take a look at the 18-300 dx or the 28-300 fx. I would want the 28. Because it is fx, but effectively becomes a 42 or so on your dx. Then I'd. Uh a used wide prime. Of course the 2.8 is the best quality.
I carry a tripod in an old folding camping chair bag.