SB-600 or 35mm 1.8?

[Rustypteclare]

I'm using a D70 with the kit lens. I added the SB600 some time ago and use it virtually all the time - often in bounce mode. (Check out 'better bounce card' - a nifty idea that works wonders).

Certainly the more powerful (and heavier) SB 800 or 900 should be considered. Personally I would have little use for a wide angle lens - but all this depends on what YOU want to photograph. (Not to metion the costs involved - smile)

ATB!

ps You can make your own 'better bounce card'.

[wulf]

How about getting a cheap, old, MANUAL 50mm f/1.8 lens? It is a cheap step forward, gives you an idea of the "fast glass experience" and also whether working in manual mode is for you.

I don't think either of the bits of gear you mention are ideal for soccer shooting (too wide on the lens and too far away for flash to have much useful effect). Either would be great for portraits but a cheaper lens will give you an idea if fast glass is the best next step or an external flash. I've now got both but, if I had to choose, I'd go for the lens, not least because the flash is more obtrusive and another bulky thing to carry round. It does make it look like you know what you are doing though!

Wulf

[amymnc]

I played with the lens set on 35mm yesterday and it was OK but I'd be better off with 50mm for portraits. Also tried to work with manual focus mode- hated that. Looks like I really need to upgrade my camera. I'm getting really frustrated with only 3 autofocus brackets in the d40, the lens and flash compatibility issues...sigh. It has served me well over the years.

All things considered, I'll go for the SB-600. Then after Christmas break for the D90 and new glass...or the d300. Decisions, decisions.

thank you for your input!