Time for VR! Nikon f/4.0 Nikon f/2.8II Tamron VC f/2.8

Panza

Senior Member
Howdy folks,

My buddy, the 80-200 f/2.8 has been with me for a long time. I originally got him for panning and long range autophotography (with a monopod) but now I use it more in-hand for portraits and telephoto events. It's about time for me to go VR/VC. My hands just aren't steady enough to hold the camera and lens steady below 1/90. I tried the f/4 and f/2.8 and the VR lets me shoot comfortably at 1/30.

Both felt solid. It was odd that the F4 felt so small and cute. Still in consideration though. In more than one forum post I explained that I had broken my back many years ago.

As much as I love Nikkor lenses, I've heard amazing things about the Tamron from forum go-ers (while I haven't shot with it myself).
The f/4 Nikkor has a bit more distortion than I'd like, and one stop less light. I can hold the thing much more steadily. It's cheapest and lightest.
The f/2.8 Nikkor is heavy and expensive. Looks beautiful though.
Tamron is actually 70-186mm. Not quite a Nikkor. It's priced in the middle, and has great image quality (from what I've seen).

How do they focus in low light with the focus assist light off? Anyone have experience? Many events I tend to shoot are dimly lit.

My little sister's graduation is in May and I plan on obtaining one before then. :eek:
 
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