Nikon D3100 - 18-55mm Lens not good enough, need more zoom

Guest

I bought Nikon D3100 camera with 18-55mm lens (package deal), now I notice that it doesn't have enough zoom. I want to know what options I have, shall I sell this and buy 18-105 mm or 18-200mm or buy a 55-105mm lens?

Why do people carry two lens (18-55mm and 55-105mm) when they can get 18-105mm one lens? Is it just price or some other reason.

Please post your iinputs.

Please hurry, I need to order lens before I go on cruise next week.

Added (1). Do I have to buy Nikon lens only or can I buy other brands, Please suggest which brands are good if yes.

George Y

Your best deal is to get the 55-200mm AF-S VR lens. That, along with your 18-55mm, gives you a wide 18-200mm range. Now, I have an 18-200mm AF-S VR and love it. It does take the place of two lenses, saving lens-changing time and giving me a lighter package to carry along. When I went to China in 2007, it was the only lens I brought along.

But, the rule of thumb is - the more you expect from one lens, the poorer result you will get. Think of a dedicated all-in-one tool vs a toolbox. Yes, you can do alot with that all-in-one, but a true craftsman uses different tools for each job.

Just remember this. You probably won't be able to sell the 18-55mm for very much. It's better to keep it and suppliment.

As for brands, you can use any Sigma, Tamron, Tokina, or other brand lens that has a built-in autofocus motor.

Here's a partial list for you.
http://en.wikipedia.org/...ocus-motor

If you have any other questions please feel free to email me.

jetwash2002ca

You can add a 55 - 200mm or a 70-300mm, either 1 will give you a mid to long range telephoto ability.

Along with your existing 18-55mm, this combo should cover most of the ground.

Optically speaking, it is easier to control the optical quality for a lower zoom power zoom lens (i.e. 70 - 210mm) vs.a higher zoom power lens (i.e. 28 - 300mm).

keerok

Zoom lenses are the worst type of lens next to mirrors. Science made sure of that. Glass elements work best only at a single focal length. Making the lens work on multiple focal lengths degrade picture quality. Many don't see the difference hence the crave for more zoom. I don't blame them.

I don't deal with two zoom lenses. I only have the kit 18-55mm lens. Other than that, I use a box full of manual film prime lenses. They're far much better. As for you, go with what you are comfortable with. There's an 18-300mm Tamron that might tickle your fancy.

thephotographer

You can either decide to keep the 18-55mm lens and get a new Nikkor 55-200mm lens that will give you more range, or decide to sell the 18-55mm lens and get a new Nikkor 18-200mm lens that will replace both.

There are other brands that makes lenses such as Sigma and Tamron, but their quality is usually worse.

Cerys E