Lens advice - d3000.

[[Rajath]]

I have a Nikon d3000 that I got last November. And I am very happy with it. It has given me no troubles. Thanks to DPS for a great review!

I was looking for an upgrade from the default 18-55 lens. I was looking at the following 2 lenses:

1. Nikon AF-S Zoom - Nikkor 70-300mm 1:4,5-5,6G VR Objektiv (bildstab.) inkl. HB-36 [Costs about 490 euros]
2. Nikon AF-S DX Zoom - Nikkor 55-200mm 1:4-5,6 G IF-ED VR Objektiv (bildstab.) inkl. HB-37 [Costs about 200 euros]

On the one hand, I want to buy the 70-300 lens. On the other hand. the 55-200 is well within my budget.

My question is,

1. How important is the range 55-70 mm? (If I decide on the 70-300 lens)
2. How important is the range 200-300 mm? (If I buy the 55-200 lens)

I also had a look at the Sigma and Tamron lenses. But somehow, only their macro lenses interests me.

What would you people suggest? I mostly do Urban photography. And least into wildlife. Sometimes sports. But almost negligible.

Regards

[OsmosisStudios]

THe 70-300 isnt just longer in focal length, it has a better VR, better optics, better build, etc. But its also bigger and heavier. Focal length isnt everything.

I'd always recommend the 70-300 VR, simply because it's fantastic and gives that extra bit of reach. Even if you only have an 18-55 for thw wider end, the 55-70 range isnt a huge deal.

[[Rajath]]

Thanks for the reply. I was thinking of the same. The 70-300 VR makes more sense. =)

A couple of my friends also gave me the same suggestion. The problem is the Nikkor original accessory from the local camera store (and amazon) is about 490 euros, which in my case, is kind of costly. And I should wait for some more time to get this.

How would you rate the d3000 compatible lenses from other companies? Like Tamron or Sigma.

[OsmosisStudios]

It is, but make sure you're getting the lenses with their built in motor. The AF-S equivalent for Sigma is HSM, the Tamron equivalent is BIM. If you have that in the lens code, you'll be okay. Also make sure to get the Nikon version: Tamron and Sigma both make the same lenses for Canon, Nikon and others.

Really, though, I'd just say just save up for the Nikon 70-300 VR

[Shokinen]

Also keep in mind that the 70-300 will be sharper than the 55-200 at 200mm

When I started with my D60 and my 18-55, the 70-300 was my first upgrade and I never regret it.