inexpensive faster glass?

S

stix

Senior Member
I want to pick up a faster lens to experiment with on my D3100.
I've considered the Sigma 28-105mm 2.8-4.0, Tamron 28-105mm 2.8, Nikkor 105mm 2.5, Nikkor Q 135mm 2.8, among others. I'm interested in (specific) lens suggestions, including what to stay away from.
I have three lenses; Nikon (kit) 18-55, Tamron 55-200, Sigma 70-300. I'd like to add a lens suitable for hand-held indoor action, such as kids karate class and indoor motocross racing. Both of these situations have inherent problems; low light, fast action, and tripod and flash use is not allowed in karate class. None of my current lenses work well in these situations without getting into very high ISO. I've heard alot of (cheaper) fast lenses get very soft wide open. Is anyone familiar with issues in these (mentioned) lenses?
Since neither of my non-Nikons are motorized, I'm used to manual focus, thats not an issue for now. I plan to invest in quality glass eventually, but not until I get a solid understanding of
exactly what I want. I'd like to play around with a faster lens that'll work in these situations, to further narrow down what I eventually invest in.
Target cost is under $150 and a motorized lens isn't mandatory, so I'm not opposed to (older) SLR glass.
The lenses I mentioned definately fit the budget, but would like to hear what opinions you guys have.
I don't know much about older glass on modern digitals, other than many are compatible without AF. Any input on that would also be appreciated.
Thanks.
 
Marcel

Marcel

Happily retired
Staff member
Super Mod
I don't think that you will get what you are looking for within your budget. I think you will have to wait until you have more money. Fast glass is not inexpensive unless you find a real bargain in the used dept.
 
M

Mike150

Senior Member
I have to agree with Marcel. You're going to have to up your budget. That Tamron 28-105 f2.8 you mentioned is over three times your budget.
Rather than try and give a lens recommendation, I'll suggest you check out https://www.lensrentals.com/
Find a lens you might be interested in and rent it for a few days. Rather than lay out big bucks for a lens you later find wasn't exactly what you wanted, you can try one and if it's not right try the next one up or down.
I've been wanting to try out some wide angle lenses and have some fun with my grand kids so I decided rather than plunking down $800 for the Nikon 10-24, I'll rent it for 5 days for $75 and that includes shipping both ways and insurance in case I get crazy and break it.
 
S

stix

Senior Member
Mike150 said:
I have to agree with Marcel. You're going to have to up your budget. That Tamron 28-105 f2.8 you mentioned is over three times your budget.

Find a lens you might be interested in and rent it for a few days. Rather than lay out big bucks for a lens you later find wasn't exactly what you wanted...
Click to expand...

I do alot on eBay and have found all the lenses listed for under $160. (used), thats how they made the list. I have less than $125. invested in (both) my current zooms. You have to be patient, but deals are out there. I did the same thing when I had Canon gear. Between the Canon and Nikon, I've bought/sold six different lenses and pretty much broke even. I've learned alot using the different lenses, no way could I have afforded all new. So yes, I'm definately bargain hunting.
There's a big jump in cost with motorized lenses. Once I figure out what I really want, I'll buy a new motorized lens with VR, but I'm fine with manual for now. My main goal is to stay away from lenses with known issues.

As for focal length...Rexer John is rite. I've been watching my average exif data, and seem to shoot 70-110mm range alot. Thats how I got to the primes I listed, also in the target price-range.

Thanks for the link Mike, I didn't know that service existed.
encouragement.png
 
E

Epoc

Senior Member
I think the Nikon 105/2.8 might be pushing it for under $180, but yes the others can be bought if you spend time looking. None are great, thats why there cheap. Go the 50mm/1.8G right now and start shooting quality!:)

http://tinyurl.com/bmu9dc6
 
P

pistnbroke

Banned
keep off Tamron my tests show it to be inferior to Nikon/Sigma ..Look for a 135 mm E series Nikon ..one of the best lenses ever made and cheap.
 
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