Re: Question about Lenses

I know I am jumping into this thread a little late but better late than never.

On the subject of name brand (IE Canon / Nikon) vs off brand (Tamron, Sigma, etc), I have seen some great results from the off brand, if you get their higher end lenses. I wouldn't shy away from them but they won't be as good as their name brand counter parts on a as consistent basis.

On the subject of a super zoom (IE 18-200mm) vs carrying multiple lenses, I myself am torn on this and have been for some time. I currently carry a Nikon 18-70mm f3.5-4.5 and a Nikon 80-200mm f2.8. But on vacations where photography is important but it isn't the reason I am going, I normally rent a Nikon 18-200mm lens so I don't have to carry nearly as much. One theory is, that the all in one lens cannot get as good of photos as a pair of lenses specifically designed for that range. The other theory is if you get caught without the correct lens on the camera you won't get any shot at all anyway and that is the worst quality to get...

I have heavily considered buying a Nikon 18-200mm but my weakness is having those shots where everything is out of focus but the subject and the f2.8 does that so beautifully! (Like this)

In summary, I would rent a super zoom and take it for an outing that you normally do. Put it through the paces and see if you are disappointed in the quality compared to the pair of lenses or if you are just over joyed at not having to change lenses. I have rented a Nikon 18-200mm on a number of occasions from [www.photorentalsource.com] They are local to me so I don't but they do ship all over the USA and then when you are done you ship it back to them.

BTW: My current equipment:
Nikon D70
Nikon 18-70mm f3.5-4.5
Nikon 80-200mm f2.8
Nikon 35mm f2

Brian Jansky
Houston, Tx
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