Nikon SLR Cameras

Is it worth upgrading my Nikon lenses?

Guest
Guest

I currently have a Nikon D40 with the 18-55mm f/3.5 kit lens (no VR), and a 55-200mm telephoto (also no VR). I'm looking to get more into photography and I don't know if I should upgrade my lens and/or my body. Would it be worth it to get better lenses or a body? I was thinking about getting the same lenses but the newer versions with VR. I'm into a lot of types of photography. I haven't really found my niche yet but so far I like street, scenery, and portrait photography.

retiredPhil
retiredPhil

I suggest you pursue photography with what you have. If somewhere along the journey you find you can't do something with the gear you have, then it would be time to buy something else. At a minimum, the gear you have will get you through any basic photography course.

Awffy Huffy
Awffy Huffy

It depends… I have 3 bodies, D5100, D7000 and D7100… For the way I work the bodies were more of a priority… I have access to different options much quicker - each body has a different lens attached.

I'm not a Pro… And a Pro is most likely to advise better glass… It isn't bad advice… It depends on what your priorities are… If you are happy with the image quality you are getting and don't feel that you are restricted with the apertures they have then add another body… If you feel your lenses restrict you and would prefer faster glass then invest in the better glass.

I'm really happy (delighted) with my current set up… I'm just about to upgrade to faster glass, only because i'm shooting a lot more and could benefit from what faster glass brings to the table… It's a worthwhile investment now.

JustMe
JustMe

The D40 is really not much more than an entry-level camera. If you want to develop further into photography, you should look at upgrading both body and lenses.

Nick P
Nick P

What are your photographic results with the lenses you already own? Can you make sharp as a tack 11x14's maybe even a 16x20?

You have no logical reason to upgrade your camera body, at least that you have presented to us.

In my case I found my Pentax 18-55mm and the 50-200 lens sharp enough. And I moved onto a 100mm macro for close-ups and a 70mm "Limited" lens for Portraits. If your camera is performing OK, I see no reason to start over with another camera body. My Pentax Kx was discontinued the "next" month after I purchased the camera! But as of now, I see no reason to chuck the body and purchase an "up-dated" body. I would rather put that money into another lens to "expand my photographic options.

John P
John P

I have a friend with a D40, she gets pics which please her. You should thrash your camera and lenses in some difficult situations, and try to find what frustrates you about your present set up. Then, after a couple of months or more, come back and ask the question again.