Lesson Learned

[lhermiston]

I bought my Nikon D5100 last fall. I love it, but I've also fallen into the "I need new lens to take better photos" trap. I've bought a 50mm and a 55-300mm.

I want to be clear that I love my new lens, but in doing a photography project the last couple weeks I've found that time and time again, I'm using my 18-55mm kit lens more than the other two.

So, I know there's a strong temptation to buy new glass. I know others here will tell you not to. I know you're going to buy new lenses anyway. But, if you're a new photographer, get to know your kit lens before diving into something else. You'll be glad you did.

 

[photo_chick]

The temptation to succumb to Gear Acquisition Syndrome is great, especially when you're first getting started.

 

[mcraige]

I understand completely. After buying my DSLR, I was constantly looking for lenses. After a few trips, I've learned that the "super zoom" I wanted would rarely be used. Glad I didn't buy it.

 

[Elk Grove Chris]

I fell into the same trap when I bought my first DSLR. Then I listened to others and always rented a lens prior to buying it, saved me a ton of money.

 

[Mickey1Fan]

I have a D200 and bought my sons 18-200 mm lens.

I only use the one lens and don't have to change it or carry anything else with me. Having said this I want a new prime lens because I only have the 18-200.

I still have a lot to learn but I am going to try the scavenger hunt for practise/learning shots.

 

[2Tiggies]

I don't think that temptation ever leaves for some of us All that's happened with me is understanding that the lens doesn't compensate for the photographer which helps me resist these urges a lot better lol

 

[cobright]

I just got the Tamron 28-300mm because I'm willing to sacrifice a rather marginal bit of quality and an acceptable bit of performance (in 90% of my Disney photography) for being able to get in and out of the park with one lens one body.

And yet... the look on my little prime's face ... "Why daddy? Why? Am I not good enough for you anymore? Is it something I've done? It's so cold in the closet, all alone and cold. So cold..."

 

[mom2rtk]

I just got the Tamron 28-300mm because I'm willing to sacrifice a rather marginal bit of quality and an acceptable bit of performance (in 90% of my Disney photography) for being able to get in and out of the park with one lens one body.

And yet... the look on my little prime's face ... "Why daddy? Why? Am I not good enough for you anymore? Is it something I've done? It's so cold in the closet, all alone and cold. So cold..."

But some of those primes are so tiny............. Surely you can fit in just one more?

Besides, my doctor says weight bearing exercise is good for me.

I have some really nice lenses that I usually take with me to Disney. But my Tamron 18-270 also has a place in my kit. It's the lightest easiest way I can get that much reach.

It's all about acceptable tradeoffs.