Advice?

mrskibler

mrskibler

New member
I tried to make a similar post earlier and couldn't seem to make it work, so apologies if there end up being two of the same posts.

Basically, I need advice from veteran Nikonites on the best lens to add to my kit lens for my D5000. I'll be purchasing this lens used because of limited resources. I enjoy landscape photography and would like to branch out into trying portraits. Because I can't afford a 16mm or 10mm lens, I'm considering a 35mm prime lens to try portraiture, but of course, I'm interested in 55-200mm zoom. So I guess what I'm asking is: if you could only buy one lens to supplement your kit lens, what would it be? (Please keep in mind, I'll be buying used.)

Thanks in advance!
 
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Mike150

Senior Member
Welcome mrskibler
I'm going to assume your camera came with a Kit Lens (Either an 18-55 or an 18-105) Either one would enable you to take good landscape shots. They're not quite as strong for portraits but will function for that as well. I think I would try for either the 35mm 1.8 or the 50mm 1.8 do do portraits and general all around shooting. If you're going to get into wildlife (birds and other critters) I think I would suggest going with a zoom that reaches as far as 300. You'll be glad you got the extra reach.
 
mrskibler

mrskibler

New member
Thanks, Mike. That's kind of what I was thinking, but it never hurts to hear it from someone else. Also, do you have any experience with B&H? I'm a little apprehensive about buying used, but I may be able to spring for both lenses if I go that route.
 
Horoscope Fish

Horoscope Fish

Senior Member
Well, technically speaking, the 18-55mm has got you covered for landscapes (18mm) to portrait (55mm) so the only thing you're really lacking is significant zoom power... Being on restricted budget, that probably means looking at the 55-200mm which is a pretty solid choice in my opinion. With those two lenses you've covered everything from 18mm to 200mm. Not a bad spread. If you run across a good deal on a 55-300mm so much the better. I say this without taking anything away from a good 35mm or 50mm prime because those are awesome lenses I think everyone should have... But, as has already been said, your 18-55 covers those focal lengths so I don't see the point in duplicating.
 
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TedG954

Senior Member
I use both 18-55 and 55-200 on my DX camera and I have been pleased with the results.

For indoor shooting (family events, etc) I bought the 35 f1.8 for lower light use.

So, your choice will be depending on what you're going to be shooting..... indoors or outdoors.
 
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fotojack

Senior Member
I wouldn't have any reservations about ordering anything from B&H. They have a stellar reputation among the photographic community. I don't hesitate in saying that you can order with confidence from them.
 
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