Nikon SLR Cameras

Advice on new lenses for Nikon D80 DSLR?

dvskitten
dvskitten

Hi, I currently have an Nikon 18-55 mm DX lens and 55-200 mm VR lens for my Nikon D80. Although, I'm generally happy with them, it is sometimes a pain to be exchanging the lenses all the time. Is there a light general purpose lens that could replace both? I say light b/c I did have the 18-200 VR lens and it was just too heavy for me. I mainly enjoy landscapes, although I also like macro work as well. Sounds like I'd still need two lenses for that. What would be a better pair to own for that kind of work on a budget of $1000 for both lenses?

Guest
Guest

If you don't need the 100-200mm part of the 55-200mm lens that much, then you could consider the 18-105mmVR.

Macro work pretty much always calls for a special macro prime lens, or extension tubes - neither will save you some work for switching lenses or mounting the extension tubes. But given that macro work requires a tripod and whatnot, i don't see the issue in a quick lens change there.

Or are you looking for an intermediate between these two lenses that is decent for handheld closeups? If so, check out the dirt cheap 28-80mm/3.3-5.6G. I like it a lot on my D90 as a longer-than-standard-zoom, and its close focus limit designed for use on full frame/film combined with the crop factor makes it quite capable for closeups. It's terrible wide open at 28mm, but tack sharp from f/6 on.
Here is a sample shot:

Guest
Guest

If the quality of the 18-55 works for you then look at an 18-105. IF you want better and are prepared to pay for it, 16-85. If you want a bargain, the old 18-135.

Macro… Any macro lens currently in production is good. I own a tokina 100mm f2.8 which I like but the tamron, sigma or the nikon 105 are also excellent.