GP Lens?

[MisterJolly]

I'm looking or a general purpose lens, one I can leave on the camera.

Story so far; using loaned Nikon D100 (20 year absence from photography, first digital), soon to get own D300s.

Need a 'first' lens for general purpose use (other lenses may follow).

Any recommendations, budget <£500.

[kirbinster]

Some hate it, but the Nikon 18-200 VR is quite versatile and might serve you well.

[autofocus]

It kind of depends on what you mostly want to shoot. I don't know too much about this new lens from Nikon (see below) but it has a nice medium zoom focal range that would offer a lot of utility as a general purpose lens. Not the fastest lens in the bag, however, but OK

AF-S DX NIKKOR 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR from Nikon

[mattdm]

This really depends on your shooting style and what you want to do. For some people, the AF-S NIKKOR 24mm f/1.4G ED might be exactly the answer — it's right at the classic moderate-wide-angle field of view on the D300s.

[MisterJolly]

Years ago, as a film user, I was reasonably 'people' oriented; street photography, portraits, etc. I dare say I shall pick that up again, but as I get older I'm less inclined to get out and about so a little table-top/still life might be in the offing too.

As I say I'm looking for a first dSLR lens, general purpose. More 'specific' lenses may be later additions.

Thanks again.