Lens for a Nikon D50

[Adelle]

I got a Nikon D50 with a 18 - 55 mm AF Lens several months ago, I am very happy with my camera so far as its a big step up from any camera I have had before. However I want a better zoom lens as I often get frustrated at not being able to zoom in enough on subjects that I am trying to take photos of.

I love taking photos of my dogs of course, I also like taking landscapes and I also love taking wildlife photos when the opportunity presents itself but as you know its not easy to get close enough to get photos of wildlife (such as deer) without scaring them off. I don't want to break the bank either but I would love some suggestions for a beginner photographer for what type of lens I should be looking at so that I can zoom in more when necessary.

 

[Net45582]

I would look for a 55-200 lens....I'm not familiar with the Nikon D50 body though. Someone else may have better info for you.

 

[lisid]

Ok, here is what I would look for. You need a zoom that goes to about 300mm to get "close" enough to any animals except tame ones. Nikon has a very good 70-300mm "g" series lens that will work perfectly on your D50 and it is very inexpensive. Yes, you sure can spend LOTS of money if you go for a "fast" zoom lens such as f4 or f2.8 but you can get by quite nicely with the slower lens. The one I mentioned is an f4 to f5.6 ( I think). You can also buy aftermarket lens as well. Some folks like to stay with the name brands for the lenses but in the type you are looking for it would make little difference.

Compatibility is usually the issue but the majority of aftermarket lenses will be fine. Sigma makes good lenses as well as Tokina, there are a few others as well. If you stick with the Nikon lens you'll be fine and it won't break the bank, the Nikon gives better resale value if you decide to upgrade. That's my two cents worth.

 

[Adelle]

Thank you for your input that is the exact lens I was thinking of getting

 

[photomama24]

The best zoom lenses are really the most expensive lenses....that are faster with apertures at 2.8.

I would honestly stay away from the slower zoom lenses with apertures 3.5 or higher.

If you going to use an SLR definitely try to learn photography as well. So I would say get a Nikkor 50mm 1.4 lens. Its fast, and very sharp. In a professional photographer, and take it with me to every photo shoot.