Before I pull the trigger...(Or hit the Proceed to checkout button)

[RSCDoug]

I'm trying to decide whether or not to do the deed and go after my first DSLR...Before I do, I'll make it clear that I've read all the whys and why nots on the blog...I want a DSLR, but I think I'll go entry level probably the Nikon D60 (or D40X depending on the tax return)....

My questions is this, since most of these cameras come with the 18-55mm lense, what should be the first lens I buy that will help me cover the largest variety of situations that would be limited with the 18-55?

[Murtasma]

a longer telephoto like a 70-200. The 50mm F1.8 would be an ideal lens to have as well. I believe Nikon makes a cheep 50mm F1.8 like Canon does.

[SusanH1970]

It really depends on what you'll be photographing most often. Portraits? Landscapes? Nature shots? Do you need something that will let you zoom in very close (i.e. for photographing birds, etc.)?

I mostly do portraits, and the first lens I purchased to go along with my kit lens was a 50mm 1.8. I've found it's great for general use, as well, but my next lens purchase will be one that gives me more range.

Let us know what you need, and I'm sure you'll get tons of suggestions.

Edited to add: Murtasma beat me to it! I was thinking of the 70-200 as well for my next, or even a 70-300.

[RSCDoug]

Wow fast responses thanks...

I will be taking mostly outdoors, nature shots...Macros, animals, landscapes...The whole gamut outside...

Plus, with a baby on the way I imagine I'll be taking a ton of shots of the little one...

[Murtasma]

70 - 300 and the 50mm F1.8 should give you majority of focal lengths you will find most useful in the beginning. You will probably want to get a dedicated macro lens sometime down the line as well.

[SusanH1970]

Originally Posted by Murtasma

70 - 300 and the 50mm F1.8 should give you majority of focal lengths you will find most useful in the beginning. You will probably want to get a dedicated macro lens sometime down the line as well.

^ What he said.

[OeterB]

I'm Canon, but in terms of range... My 18-200 (kit) lens covers everything I've needed so far.

I'm not sure why, but even some of my better extreme low light pics have come from this lens, rather than my 50mm f/1.8. I guess it's only because it's got some more weight in it and I can hold it steadier? Not sure.

But I love my 50mm for most things. The 18-200 is great to just throw on and not have to worry about changing lenses. And, as said above, my only desires lens wise at present is a macro lens. I'm not sure whether to get a flash or the macro lens, but that's for another topic thread.

I think if you have that 18-200 range covered, you'll be golden. The 50mm is gravy. That said, the above opinions are more experienced than me.

[harrysixtie7]

Im selling my D40x, or whenever I get it on the gear page. If you dont want the lens, no problem. I loved the camera, but up/downgraded to a D70 b.c I have big hands and I like buttons

[RSCDoug]

Harry..PM sent...

As for everyone else, thanks for the advice...I think I know what I need to do...Anyone want to lend me $500 bucks...ha...I'm good for it, I swear!

Kidding! I look forward to being able to share some of the pics I take with whatever Camera and lens I end up with. This is a great site.

[Gobae]

I have a D40X and I've been quite pleased with it. Supposedly it has more grain at high ISO's than the regular D40, but since I've never shot with anything else I can't compare.

Pretty much all the lenses that were recommended so are right on the mark with what I discovered I needed and now have. (18-55, 70-300, 50/1.8) Keep in mind that the D40/x/60 series now needs the focus motor in the LENS and so you'll need an AS-F or AS-I series lens for full usability. That said, the 70-300 and 50/1.8 are from my wife's N6006 and I merely use them in manual focus mode with perfectly fine results.