Lens Advice

[sassafras]

So I have this Nikon D90 that I haven't gotten around to getting a lens for because every time I start to sift through the choices I realize there are SO MANY and I flee from decision making.

Anyone have advice for a basic, general purpose lens for a relative novice? I primarily take pictures of the dogs, and generally in pretty close quarters, so capturing them and particularly getting good action shots are my biggest "wants."

 

[k9krazee]

I'm struggling with this as well!

I just got a Nikon D80 and two lenses -- one is a Tamron 18-200mm I think and I haven't really played with it except day 1 but I wasn't terribly impressed.

Then I have a 50mm f1.8 and it's nice!! Versatile, great indoor shots, been able to capture some action (in my most recent picture thread all except the first were with the 50mm ETA: Awesome in low light!!!! Those indoor shots were taken late when it was dark with only a couple lamp lights).

But I know literally nothing about lenses and would like to know other's "must have" lenses or accessories.

 

[FG167]

I adore my 50mm for close/indoor shots!

 

[Oko]

The nifty fifty is a magical thing, definitely recommend it. I'm just now looking into adding another lens.

 

[Equinox]

50mm f/1.8 If you get the older D model you can pick it up for $50 - $85 used. Just remember, though, that on a crop sensor (which is what the D90 has) the actual focal length will come out closer to 80mm.

If you want full body shots without having to back up all that much, the 35mm lens will make it easier for you. I think the Nikon 35mm f/1.8 is around $150 - $175 used. A 35mm lens on the D90's sensor is actually around 55mm.

The kit lenses can be underrated, and you can get a lot of nice every day shots with either the 18-55mm or the 18-105mm. I've used both and like both - prime lenses are my favorite, but there's a lot to be said for the convenience and capabilities of zoom lenses as well. I use my kit lens to take pictures of the garden or just around the house, and when we are on vacation as well. Sometimes it's nice being able to go from a wide 18mm for a landscape to a closer 55mm or 105mm for a portrait.

 

[AdrianneIsabel]

A 24-70 is a great choice.

 

[Michiyo-Fir]

Grace basically said everything!

Between the 35mm 1.8 and 50mm 1.8, I much prefer the 35mm, much easier focal length to work with. I love that lens a lot on a crop sensor.

Other than that, pick up a general purpose 18-105 kit lens. They should be easily available used since a lot of people sell the kit lens to upgrade to something better. It has wide, it has telephoto, it's good o have something that carries a wide range for going out to the park, beach, hike, etc. much easier than using a fixed focal length like the 35 or 50.