Nikon D3100 Camera Lenses

I just bought a new D3100 SLR camera, and I would like a really good Zoom lense for it. Does anyone know if I can get a brand of lense that is NOT Nikon for less money? Can I use an off brand, or am I stuck with Nikon only? Any suggestions on where I can get the lense(s) as well?

I'm really new to this camera, so I need help.

The major problem is less money means less quality. Nikon lenses are expensive because they use quality glass and over all lens quality is much higher than any of the off brands.

I recommend against the off brands because of not only my own experience but so many others who write here about problems they've had with cheap lenses.

Always remember you can judge the quality of any lens or camera by it's price. Quality is never cheap and cheap will always disappoint you.

Congratulations on your new D3100.It's a great entry-level dslr.

Since it doesn't have an internal autofocus motor, you'll need AF-S Nikon lenses (don't worry, almost every new lens Nikon puts out has been AF-S). But you can go 3rd party if you look for lenses with BIM (Built In Motors). I've successfully used Sigma HSM and Tamron lenses. Tokina and other makers also have optics that will work perfectly with your D3100.

Read the specs carefully. On Sigmas, look for the HSM designation. On others, read the specs.

Here's a list from 2010 that contains a partial list of lenses for your camera. The list keeps growing each year!
http://en.wikipedia.org/...ocus-motor

Hope this helps.

Any lens maker that makes lenses that have 1) a Nikon lens mount and 2) an internal focusing motor will work just fine.

However, since any lens you buy is your actual investment and if you buy a Nikkor lens will last for decades, it makes more sense just to spend the extra money on the Nikkor lenses.

In 5 years or so, you will be buying a new body to take advantage of new technology, as you can see, the lenses are your actual investment, NOT the camera

Many advanced amateurs buy good used Nikkor lenses instead of new generic ones.

You are "branded" if you already paid too much for a certain camera brand and their lenses.
Tokina makes great lenses that are more affordable than other brands.
Visit these sites.
Tokina lens review http://www.kenrockwell.com/...1-16mm.htm
Tokina website http://www.tokinalens.com/
Price them http://www.tristatecamera.com
Just like cars made by one big corporation.
All lens manufacturers regardless of brand offer different levels of quality.
You do get what you pay for regardless of brand.
Be aware that a few lens brands can be toal junk at any price. Read the reviews.
Entry level low priced
Advanced photographer medium priced
Pro photographer high priced

Have a look at Nikon 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G AF-S ED VR II Nikkor Telephoto Zoom Lens for Nikon DX-Format Digital SLR Cameras

One-lens solution adept in a wide variety of situations
Nikon VR II (Vibration Reduction) image stabilization
Two Extra-low Dispersion (ED) elements; three aspherical lens elements
Exclusive Nikon Silent Wave Motor (SWM)
Focus to 20 inches for extended versatility
Nikon Super Integrated Coating (SIC)