Nikon D3100 -- 18-55mm Lens not good enough, need more zoom help help?

Question

I bought Nikon D3100 camera with 18-55mm lens (package deal), now I notice that it doesn't have enough zoom. I want to know what options I have, shall I sell this and buy 18-105 mm or 18-200mm or buy a 55-105mm lens?

Why do people carry two lens (18-55mm and 55-105mm) when they can get 18-105mm one lens? Is it just price or some other reason.

Please post your iinputs.

Please hurry, I need to order lens before I go on cruise next week :(

Answer 1

Your best deal is to get the 55-200mm AF-S VR lens. That, along with your 18-55mm, gives you a wide 18-200mm range. Now, I have an 18-200mm AF-S VR and love it. It does take the place of two lenses, saving lens-changing time and giving me a lighter package to carry along. When I went to China in 2007, it was the only lens I brought along.



But, the rule of thumb is - the more you expect from one lens, the poorer result you will get. Think of a dedicated all-in-one tool vs a toolbox. Yes, you can do alot with that all-in-one, but a true craftsman uses different tools for each job.



Just remember this. You probably won't be able to sell the 18-55mm for very much. It's better to keep it and suppliment.



As for brands, you can use any Sigma, Tamron, Tokina, or other brand lens that has a built-in autofocus motor.



Here's a partial list for you.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Nikon_compatible_lenses_with_integrated_autofocus-motor



If you have any other questions please feel free to email me.

Answer 2

It is a good entry level DSLR. The primary disadvantages is that it lacks a few features, such as ability to focus AF lenses, and ability to act as a remote commander for Nikon's flash units. With this camera, you need to stay with AF-S lenses if you want autofocus to work. If you don't need those features, then the D3100 would be good for a first DSLR. The 18-55mm lens is an entry level lens, and although not the best lens, it is on par with the 18-55mm lenses offered by other manufacturers.

Answer 3

Zoom lenses are the worst type of lens next to mirrors. Science made sure of that. Glass elements work best only at a single focal length. Making the lens work on multiple focal lengths degrade picture quality. Many don't see the difference hence the crave for more zoom. I don't blame them.



I don't deal with two zoom lenses. I only have the kit 18-55mm lens. Other than that, I use a box full of manual film prime lenses. They're far much better. As for you, go with what you are comfortable with. There is an 18-300mm Tamron that might tickle your fancy.



http://pulse.yahoo.com/_Q32DLZ63V4T6BVR535ON3HBNLM/blog/articles/168432?listPage=date&listItem=201009

Answer 4

You can either decide to keep the 18-55mm lens and get a new Nikkor 55-200mm lens that will give you more range, or decide to sell the 18-55mm lens and get a new Nikkor 18-200mm lens that will replace both.



There are other brands that makes lenses such as Sigma and Tamron, but their quality is usually worse.

Answer 5

You can add a 55 - 200mm or a 70-300mm, either 1 will give you a mid to long range telephoto ability.



Along with your existing 18-55mm, this combo should cover most of the ground.



Optically speaking, it is easier to control the optical quality for a lower zoom power zoom lens (i.e. 70 - 210mm) vs. a higher zoom power lens (i.e. 28 - 300mm).

Answer 6

Nikon D3100 Package

Answer 7

you might like this one



Nikon 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED IF AF-S VR Nikkor Zoom Lens for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras



70-300mm telephoto zoom lens with f/4.5-5.6 maximum aperture for Nikon digital SLR cameras

Vibration Reduction (VRII) minimizes effects of camera shake to produce sharper images

2 Extra-Low Dispersion (ED) glass elements delivers super contrast and resolution performance

Internal Focus (IF) system provides fast and quiet autofocusing; 4.9-feet close focus range

Measures 3.1 inches in diameter and 5.6 inches long; weighs 26.3 ounces; 5-year warranty

Answer 8

Really interesting question, looking forward to reading the replies