I'd like to get a telephoto new lens for my d3100, mostly for taking zoo/nature pics, and background blur for portraits. I get frustrated with the lack of zoom with the kit lens. Im looking to spend about $200, and would buy used if thats an option. I thought what I wanted was pretty simple, but after looking at the telephoto lenses ranging from 150-1000 I'm throughly confused. Also, with the d3100, do you have to get a motorized lens?
Telephoto lens
- Thread starter Eob
- Start date
Don Kuykendall_RIP
RIP :(
If you want to use auto focus you do have to use a lens with the built in focus motor. Here is a zoom that is in your price range.
http://www.cameta.com/Nikon-55-300mm-f-4-5-5-6G-VR-DX-AF-S-ED-Zoom-Nikkor-Lens-Factory-Refurbished-57852.cfm
It is a factory refurbished lens that does come with a 1 year warranty. I have bought 2 cameras and a lens from this company and all three were refurbished. Great prices and good service.
http://www.cameta.com/Nikon-55-300mm-f-4-5-5-6G-VR-DX-AF-S-ED-Zoom-Nikkor-Lens-Factory-Refurbished-57852.cfm
It is a factory refurbished lens that does come with a 1 year warranty. I have bought 2 cameras and a lens from this company and all three were refurbished. Great prices and good service.
If your trying to catch a fast shot while you have a chance, the getting a AF-S lens is the best way to go! I tend to take more unrushed photos so I bought mostly AI manual focus lenses for my needs! 
But from what you've described I think Don is right, and a good AF-S lens would likely work best for your needs!
But from what you've described I think Don is right, and a good AF-S lens would likely work best for your needs!
I have the 18-300mm Nikon lens and am loving it - it rarely leaves my Nikon's body. I also bought this to go with my D3100 (manual focus only):http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B001NMX1IW/ref=wms_ohs_product?ie=UTF8&psc=1. You can't really argue at the price!
Rancher_RIP
RIP
I have a 55-300 that I purchased from Adorama as refurbished and couldn't tell it wasn't new. Even got a second one of the same for my sister...same thing. Also couldn't beat their free freight and super fast delivery. My D7000 was here in 2 days when I got it. A plus for me was no tax to boot.
This is a album i put together to show how versatile the 55-300 is.it can cover a lot of different subjects.
Nikon 55-300 - Nikonites Gallery
Nikon 55-300 - Nikonites Gallery
My advice is to get the most telephoto reach you can get first time around. If you even think you will be shooting shots of birds, particularly small birds from anything more than a 20 foot distance, then start looking for something in the 400mm range minimum. Get the fastest f/stop lens you can afford. If your bird shots will be done while at a zoo, or somewhere else where birds are captive, then the 55-300mm will probably be fine for you.
dramtastic
Senior Member
+ One
55-300 lens is on the way. Thanks for the help! I hope it isn't too heavy. Im looking for a new camera bag to lug it around in. I've been looking at these, any other recommendations?
All – Kelly Moore Bag
EPIPHANIE CAMERA BAGS
All – Kelly Moore Bag
EPIPHANIE CAMERA BAGS
Nero
Senior Member
I'd recommend one of the Lowepro Slingshot bags.
Hope you enjoy it