[Nikklaus]

Sorry for the double thread - moved it now, I think this area is more appropriate!

I'm new to DSLR's, but I think I know the basics. I plan on getting a D80 when I've saved enough, but I don't really know the best lens set up to go for. I was originally thinking of getting it with the 18-135 lens kit, but I was advised against it and told that an 18-55mm with a 55-200mm would be a better set up. Alternatively, I have heard that the 18-200mm VR Nikon is also a very good lens, but very expensive. Are there any other good versatile lenses available? (I basicaly need a brief lens master class!). I don't want to be able to take a certain type of photo in particular (like macro) - I would just like a versatile set up at first, though in the future I wouldn't mind trying differents styles. Also, any advice on accessories you think I should go for is very welcome!

Cheers

[Dabhand16]

Welcome to Pixalo Nikklaus. Many people would say the 18-200 is the ultimate walk-about lens, as it covers a wide range. The Nikkor will be about £600, I think, but for that you also get the VR (vibration reduction) that helps to keep things nice and sharp. There are similar lenses available from other makers - Sigma and Tamron - and they are cheaper, especially if there is no VR. that will mean you will have to be more careful when shooting to ensure the camera is really steady.

I'm not sure if the 18-55 is as good as the 18-70, and I know that recently the 55-200 has been given VR, but again, i don't know about the quality of the lens.

When I got my Nikon, I selected the 18-70 lens, and I was very happy with it. Since then I've bought more lenses, but if you only want one to cover all situations, the 18-200 is a good starting point, as you have already learnt.

[slocookn]

Nikklaus,

I have the 18-200mm. I am very happy with it. I believe this lens is great for a beginner. You have a wide angle and enough of a zoom to practice all kinds of shots! And you can "focus" more on learning the operations of the camera with out having to change lens.

This would be one less thing you would have to worry about.

This is an all in one lens, so quality "could" be compromised. I have not become good enough yet to allow and possible short comings to affect me.......YET.

[Nikklaus]

Wow cheers very much for the help. A few questions:

Dabhand16, what do you mean by 'walk-about' lens? Also, do you mean the 18-70 kit lens?

Thanks!

[Dabhand16]

Sorry, Nikklaus - should not use jargon! The walkabout lens enables you to just go out with the camera and just the one lens, that is without a bag stuffed full of accessories etc, and no matter what you encounter, you should be able to get the shots you want.

And yes, the 18-70m lens I have is the Nikon kit lens. There is a thread on here somewhere that casts doubt on the quality of the 18-135 Nikkor. Vignetting seems to be a problem (darker corners in the images).

[Dabhand16]

This link ought to be of interest. It is the one I spoke about that mentions the 18-135 Nikkor lens problem.

[Nikklaus]

18-135 Nikkor being the more expensive kit lens? I'll fish out that thread, thanks.

[Dabhand16]

Originally Posted by Nikklaus

18-135 Nikkor being the more expensive kit lens? I'll fish out that thread, thanks.

Yes - that's right.

You obviously could just buy a body and a seperate lens. Then you are not confined to the kit lenses, or to the same maker. If you opt for (say) a Sigma 18-200 lens you might end up with exactly what you want at a cheaper price.

[eighty]

I was recently at an event where a Nikon rep was there and asked them the exact same question. "I've already got the 18-135 lens so what should my next lens be?"

He was very honest and suggested the quite cheap but very worthwhile 70-300 with VR.

His words were something like, "It's cheaper than the 80-200 and you get more for your money"

I've looked at these lenses and I am waiting for a trip to the US to get mine. Might be worth a look.

[Dutchie]

Yes I was looking at the 70-300 vr. It seems to be a nice second lens. And personally I haven't had the problems with my 18-135 lens as yet. And i've made a quite a few photo's with it. The lens is not that much dearer then the 18-70.

I would personally not go for the 18-55. The 18-70 is a very good lens and has good reviews. So you might want to consider that for now.

I have thought about the 18-200 lens. But it is so expensive I think. It might be good if you don't want to buy another lens in the future. Cause then you've got a perfect lens. But otherwise it is a big chunk out of your budget for a camera.

[john4jack]

I think that the 70-300 is a terrific lens; it is incredibly sharp. I also like my 18-200.

[Nikklaus]

Has anybody had experience with the Sigma 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 DC lens? (Obviously for use with the D80)

It's in stock at my local camera store, and seems to be a good lens for a good price.

Any thoughts?

[silver]

depends..

personally I would start with the 18-70 and later add a 70-300vr,. the 18-70 is probably one of the best bang for buck nikon lenses around and the vr on the longer focal length will really help with handholding,.

I havent looked at any tests for the sigma though and if you wanted a "do everything" lens it might be worth checking out

Sil