Need Help With Lenses for Nikon D5000 Please!

[susanc]

Hi Everyone,

I just upgraded to a Nikon D5000, but am totally confused about the two lenses that I have for it. I bought the camera kit that came with a AF-S DX Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.G VR lens. I was talked into buying the AF-S CX VR Zoom-Nikkor 55-200mm f/4-5.6G IF-ED lens that was on sale. I have used both lenses and I don't see much difference it them. What am I missing? I also would like to know which lens (I'm assuming a telephoto) would be good for getting shots of birds up close and also for distance shots of mountains, etc. that would bring them close. Would I use the same telephoto lens for both situations?

I know that's a lot of info, but I really do need the help. I'm disappointed that I can't take closer shots of birds that are approx. 10 feet away.

Thank you for your help in advance!

[RyanS]

The lenses are two different focal lengths - try taking your bird photos with the 55-200.

[OsmosisStudios]

You cant tell the difference? Yikes.

The 18-55 lens is a wide-angle to medium telephoto lens. The 55-200 is a telephoto lens.

The 55-200 starts where the 18-55 lens ends. This should be clear.

[IAMAMRA]

rotate the main portion of the tube while looking through the view finder...this should allow you to see the difference..