Fast low-light lense?

ABN Panzer

Senior Member
All, Been away for quite a while and unfortunately need some assistance as I get back in to digital photography.
I'm looking for a fast low light zoom lens... or at least that is what I think I need.

My oldest daughter competes on an Elite Cheer Team and the environment the competitions are held are not conducive to the two kit lenses I own: AF-S Nikkor 55-300 1:4.5-5.6 and 18-55mm 1:3.5-5.6.

The stages are often dark background with bright lighting with 'fast moving' targets (cheerleaders).

Am I even offering enough information that would allow someone to help/make a lens recommendation?
What other info would be needed (Camera is a Nikon 5100)

I'm at a loss with this one, but I know that I've run through all the various settings, and modes and the pictures are blurry(motion blur).

Any help is greatly appreciated!
 

Texas

Senior Member
How high will the iso go and still be acceptable quality wise ?
Each double of iso is same as a faster f-stop click.

Brute force fix, a full frame body and F/4 24-120 will do the job. Probably get it used for $1200 upgrade to your current kit.
 
Last edited:

Marcel

Happily retired
Staff member
Super Mod
2.8 is the aperture you should be looking for. Either Nikkor, Tamron 70-200 2.8 are workhorses of lenses when it comes to indoor or outdoor sporting events.
 

hark

Administrator
Staff member
Super Mod
Zooms with an aperture of f/2.8 should work well although they can be pricey. Another option would be a prime such as a 50mm f/1.8 or 85mm f/1.8 although these lenses do not tend to include any type of VR.
 
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