Tricky: Upgrade body or new lens?

[OsmosisStudios]

I have the opportunity to get both the D300s and 105mm f/2 DC lens on the cheap. I can only afford one, though.

I'm wondering whether I'd be better off getting the body (to replace/supplement the D80) or the lens (for portraiture, which i rather enjoy).

Of note: the lens would be used on both DX digital and my FE (film). It is also $500 less expensive as the body.

[flomaster]

I love my D80, but I would much rather have the D300s

-=Jason=-

[kirbinster]

D300s much better than the D80 (I had a D80).

[bearly]

i'd go with the body... the D300s is badass and will be a significant upgrade from the D80

[OsmosisStudios]

Im glad to see that both DPS and DPReview are echoing roughly the same thing.

[Almond.Butterscotch]

Well, to throw it up a bit, I'd go for the lens. But then again, I enjoy street photography, and roving the streets with a 35mm makes it rather hard to be hidden. (A 105 for me would mean more sneakiness, less risk of camera damage ;D)

Still, a 300s compared to the D80- that is a big difference.

[knifebox]

Get the D300s, it's a very big step from the D80

[Chip]

Is there anything about the D80 that you find frustrating, limiting, etc? And would the D300s solve those issues for you?

I know that getting the new body would make a big difference. And you can't make a bad decision.

But, I keep coming back to that lens - the creative options the DC offers seems almost too good to pass up. And what could you do with the $500 you'd save?

[OsmosisStudios]

Originally Posted by Chip

Is there anything about the D80 that you find frustrating, limiting, etc? And would the D300s solve those issues for you?

I know that getting the new body would make a big difference. And you can't make a bad decision.

But, I keep coming back to that lens - the creative options the DC offers seems almost too good to pass up. And what could you do with the $500 you'd save?

High-ISO and framerate, mainly. I shot an event the other day at ISO2000 (HI+0.3) and, while it suited the mood because of the venue, it was FAR from ideal and was still lacking. 1/25s meant alot of tossed shots.

I'd also appreciate the framerate for certain things like the carshows that Im covering (stuntbikes) this summer and, potentially, some sports.

The video would also be fun.

The 105mm f/2 DC is still on the wishlist, but I think that at this point the body is my main consideration

(The $500 would simply be set aside for more gear)

[Wylde007]

i upgraded from the d40x to the d300s it was like been shot into the future 10 years outstanding camera i'm sure you're gonna love it, the next step up would be the d700 for even better High-ISO and framerate but then more expense all round.

get it bought