What to buy next?

[xm310x]

Hi guys!

I've just purchased my first dSLR camera about two weeks ago. I bought a Nikon D7000 and I love it! It came with the 18-105mm kit lens which I really like. I've got between $100 to $400 or so to spend and I'm not sure what the next step should be... I'm thinking a lens? Maybe the Nikon 50mm f/1.8D AF Nikkor Lens or Nikon 50mm f/1.4D AF Nikkor Lens? Speedlight? Softlight box? Too many options!

[OsmosisStudios]

Start with a 50mm f/1.8D AF lens. That'll get you working with low-light and shallow DoF. Lighting can come later, once youve mastered the rest.

[xm310x]

Thanks OsmosisStudios for the response! I've been researching that lens and it has gotten great reviews. As far as minor equipment, what do you recommend? Tripod? Cleaning kit? Ect...

[Almond.Butterscotch]

I wouldn't worry about spending the rest of that money just yet. Use your camera- go out and shoot. Figure out what you need. No use in buying a load of crap.

As for a tripod: you'll probably eventually want a tripod, but not those dinky cheapo ones you get at walmart or best buy- do you really trust your $1000+ worth of equipment to a $20 aluminum-tin tripod?

[vandergus]

Even with the D7000, I would still recommend the 35mm f1.8 over the 50mm f1.8 unless you have a specific need for that focal length. The 35mm is, in general, more useful than the 50mm.

But, yeah, I would shoot with what you've got until you've identified some specific gaps that you need to fill.

[Shokinen]

Originally Posted by Almond.Butterscotch

I wouldn't worry about spending the rest of that money just yet. Use your camera- go out and shoot.

I agree with AB, those answers will come as you shoot. Normally a flashgun leads more towards portrait while a tripod more for landscape. With time, you'll get to see what you like the most and what you need to accomplish what you want.

I was really into landscape last year and wasn't attracted towards portrait. Guess what I have been doing the most this year.... portrait hahahaha.

A prime is always a good idea. Like OS said, you'll get to experiment with low-light and depth of field. They also help your composition. They force you to move and experiment new angles/persepective. As for the 35mm or the 50mm, I beleive it's a personnal choice. Check your favorite picture exif file and see what you are using the most. You can even do some test with your 18-105. Set it to 35, take a few picture of a subject, set it to 50, take a few picture of the same subject, compare.

Hope this helps