What lens to get

[divabydisney]

I am hoping to get a new lens for my upcoming trip. I have a Nikon DSLR3000. I only have the 2 lens that came with the package when I bought it, a 18-55 and 50-200? I'm looking to get a new lens, don't think I can afford a wide angle. I'm going Tuesday to the camera shop so we'll see. What do most of you shoot with?

Another side question, what do you do with your camera on water rides to ensure it doesn't get wet?

 

[mrcricket]

I am hoping to get a new lens for my upcoming trip. I have a Nikon DSLR3000. I only have the 2 lens that came with the package when I bought it, a 18-55 and 50-200? I'm looking to get a new lens, don't think I can afford a wide angle. I'm going Tuesday to the camera shop so we'll see. What do most of you shoot with?

Another side question, what do you do with your camera on water rides to ensure it doesn't get wet?

I really like my Tokina 11-16mm f2.8. I use it about 50% of the time. Another lens I use a lot when traveling is the Nikon 18-200mm. I've gotten some good shots with it and it's the ultimate walk around lens as it gives you a HUGE focal range.

 

[Experiment_626]

What's your budget, OP?

Scott

 

[photo_chick]

I keep a 28-105 on most of the time. But we all shoot differently so what I like might not be right for you.

A lot of people who are just starting out and have a similar setup to yours opt for the 50mm f/1.8 (or similar lens like a 30mm or 35mm) next as an inexpensive fast prime option. The fast primes will allow you to get the really low light shots.

 

[Gianna'sPapa]

Not only what is your budget, but what are you looking to shoot that your current lenses can't? Example: If you are looking for lowlight for the dark rides, then I would recommend the Sigma 30 f1.4, etc.

 

[ssanders79]

Have you checked out the thread Tom started?
The Ultimate Lens Review Thread (All Brands) - Wallets & Credit Cards, BEWARE!

 

[divabydisney]

Thanks for the replies so far. My budget isn't big. I am looking to spend about $300 but can justify spending more if necessary. As much as I want a wide angle, that just isn't going to happen. I'm looking one that will do great for fireworks, and just overall great. My 55-200 does great for some things, but I want an all in one per se. I don't want to change out lens a lot. I will be traveling alone with kids and already have stuff to carry.

Also maybe I just need a filter? I bought a circular polarizer one last month and can't tell any difference. I don't know what I'm doing wrong with it but it shouldn't be that hard right?

 

[ssanders79]

18-200mm is the main "all-in-one" lens but is well over $300.

The cp you have should rotate. While looking through the viewfinder rotate the filter and you should see a difference in reflective stuff and the sky.

 

[HPS3]

I have a D5100 which came with the kit 18-55mm. About a month ago I bought the 35mm f1.8 AF-S. I find myself shooting with the 35mm most of the time. It is perfect for low light and its really sharp. I think I paid $239 off of ebay.

 

[Mexidoc]

I have the d5000. I recently bought nikon 35mm 1.8. Great lens but since its a prime you have to move around a lot, or change lenses. So, I found tne tamron 18-270. It has been great. I have 4 daughters and they are my primary focal points. The tamron is not that fast but i think the expansive range makes up for it. It might be a little more than you wanted to spend but tamron was offering a $150 rebate through july 31.

 

[Spectro is #1]

Try renting a lens. It is an inexpensive way of trying what you might like. There are a ton of sites renting lenses these days so shop around.

 

[MikeandReneePlus5]

I have a D5100 which came with the kit 18-55mm. About a month ago I bought the 35mm f1.8 AF-S. I find myself shooting with the 35mm most of the time. It is perfect for low light and its really sharp. I think I paid $239 off of ebay.

Man...I wish Canon had a 35mm option in this price range.

the EF 50mm f/1.8 can be had for $119 to my desk.

The EF 35mm f/2.......$320!

Where is the $200 option???