Looking for Nikon D3100 lens buying advise

9 years 11 months ago #370779 by mattcollins
Hi all,

I'm relatively new to photography but am seriously addicted to it lol. Firstly what I currently have:

Camera
Nikon D3100:

Lens
18-55mm 
55-200mm

I'm looking for some advise on where to go next lens wise. I love nature photography, but also looking to dabble more in portrait photography

I was thinking of maybe looking at my next buy being either:

105mm macro lens (currently struggling to get any really good close up shots, can this be achieved with tubes?)
70-300mm lens (as great as I find the 55-200mm I still struggle to get good shots of animals etc more than 50m away)

For portraits I've heard a good lens may be a 50mm lens

Also another question, is it worth sticking to Nikon/Nikkor lens or can the Sigma etc be just as good but cheaper?

Being a complete beginner any advise, criticism etc would be greatly appreciated

Many thanks,

Matt


,
9 years 11 months ago - 9 years 11 months ago #370795 by effron
The modern 105 f/2.8 VR is a great lens and versatile, portrait and macro. If you decide on the 70-300, make sure its the newer VR model, which has as much bang for the buck as any lens,  the non VR is junk. Your choice, but if you stay with photography you'll eventually own them both anyway....;)

With those two lens ranges, I'd stick with the Nikons....

Why so serious?
Photo Comments
,
9 years 11 months ago #370817 by garyrhook
Tubes are a fine addition. There's a discussion thread here , and you can seem some recent shots in this thread .

I love my 105, and yes, it's great for portrait work. 50mm? Meh. If you want a wider aperture go for an 85 for portraits.

You might also consider a 24-70. Versatile, high quality. The Tamron would be a better choice than the Sigma, IMO, but the Nikon would be a first choice. I use an older Tamraon 28-75 (non-VR) and am perfectly happy with it. You just have to have good technique.

+1 on the 70-300, although if you really want to do wildlife you may find that a 500mm is a better choice. The Sigmas are not well-regarded at the far end of the range, from what I'm reading, but you may be perfectly happy.


Photo Comments
,
9 years 11 months ago #370963 by mattcollins
Thank you for the replies!

I think I'll aim for the 70-300mm first as thats the most affordable and then look to get the 105mm as I didn't realise this was good for portraits too!! 

Many thanks,

Matt


,

817.3K

241K

  • Facebook

    817,251 / Likes

  • Twitter

    241,000 / Followers

  • Google+

    1,620,816 / Followers

Latest Reviews

The Leica SL2-S is an attractive, premium mirrorless camera with photo and video specs that are sure to impress. And with the legendary Leica name, you know this camera exudes quality!

Mar 26, 2024

The Sigma fp L is a compact full-frame camera with a 61-megapixel sensor, 4K video capabilities, in-body image stabilization, and weather-sealed construction. What’s not to like?!

Mar 19, 2024

The Canon 1DX Mark III is a big, burly professional camera packed with top-end features. Is it worth the investment in 2024? Find out in this detailed review!

Mar 04, 2024

In the OM-1 vs OM-5 debate, which camera comes out on top? Though they’re different cameras for different purposes, comparing them head to head clarifies which is best for your needs.

Mar 01, 2024
Get 600+ Pro photo lessons for $1

Forum Top Posters

Latest Articles

Time management is a critical skill to master when you’re a photographer. But how do you get the most out of the limited time you have? Check out this guide to learn a few tricks!

Mar 27, 2024

The Leica SL2-S is an attractive, premium mirrorless camera with photo and video specs that are sure to impress. And with the legendary Leica name, you know this camera exudes quality!

Mar 26, 2024

Opening a photography business means undertaking various photography marketing strategies to promote your work. But you don’t want to do the same old thing - try these unique ideas!

Mar 22, 2024

The Canon EOS 80D might be a few years old, but it’s nevertheless a quality camera to invest in as a beginner or enthusiast looking for a mid-range DSLR with tons of lens options.

Mar 22, 2024

Wedding consultations are a critical part of a wedding photography gig. It’s when you learn about the couple and their wants, and present them with how you will meet those desires.

Mar 22, 2024

If you're looking for the best metal print of 2023, you'll find it from Artbeat Studios. After months of testing, Artbeat Studios beat out the competition!

Mar 21, 2024

Getting the best video shots on your camera or smartphone requires you to understand the fundamentals of composition and video editing. It helps to have the appropriate gear, too!

Mar 20, 2024

It’s easy to lose your inspiration behind the lens, especially as a beginner. These creative photography projects can help inspire you to try new techniques and improve your photos.

Mar 20, 2024