Christine Oatley wrote:.

Hi, I would like to buy a Nikon D200 and obviously need a lens. I amonly used to a point and shoot digital camera (Canon PS45) and havenever used it to it's full potential, so I have much to learn. I aminterested in all aspects of photography, macro landscape etc, but Iam in no way going professional..

Then why a D200?.

I have read some reviews about the autofocus being slow on the Tamronlenses. Has anyone got some good advice re Nikon/Tamron lens?Also, what particular lens would you suggest I get for a starters? Ihave been looking at the 18 - 250 Tamron and the 18 - 200 Nikon.There is a price difference of around 200, but I would rather paythe extra to get the quality, should there be a lot of difference..

Why buy a semi-pro body if you're going to stick a mediocre superzoom on it? I'd go, at least, for a 18-70 and would seriously consider something like a 28-75 2.8Don't wait for the Nikon D-whatever, have fun now!http://www.flickr.com/photos/j_wijnands/..

The camera determines focus and commands the lens, not the other way around. The Tamron 18 mm x 250 mm has glowing reports in a recent Popular Photography Magazine. Look on their web site.Bob,.

'We don't make a photograph with a camera; we bring to the act of photography all the books we have read, the movies we have seen, the music we have heard and the people we have loved.' Ansel Adams.

Sony R1Canon Pro1Casio Z750Nikon 3100.

Image control:Zoom outZoom 100%Zoom inExpand AllOpen in new window..

I'd go with a normal zoom as the first lens. Consider the Tamron 17-50 f2.8 or the Nikon 17-55 f2.8. Sticking a superzoom on the D200 is just WRONG. For example, even the cheap 18-55 kit lens that comes with the D40 can take a better picture at wide-angle than the 18-200VR, simply because it faces fewer compromises, from only needing to cover a much smaller zoom range..

Christine Oatley wrote:.

Hi, I would like to buy a Nikon D200 and obviously need a lens. I amonly used to a point and shoot digital camera (Canon PS45) and havenever used it to it's full potential, so I have much to learn. I aminterested in all aspects of photography, macro landscape etc, but Iam in no way going professional.I have read some reviews about the autofocus being slow on the Tamronlenses. Has anyone got some good advice re Nikon/Tamron lens?Also, what particular lens would you suggest I get for a starters? Ihave been looking at the 18 - 250 Tamron and the 18 - 200 Nikon.There is a price difference of around 200, but I would rather paythe extra to get the quality, should there be a lot of difference..

Capricorn..

Thank you all for your help. My brother advised me but I didn't listen. I think I might go for the Nikon D80 or the Pentax K10D. The reason for being ambitious in wanting the D200 is that I will retire soon and thought I could master 'The beast' when I have more time, but maybe I'll 'Test the water' first!.

Chris..

Christine Oatley wrote:.

Thank you all for your help. My brother advised me but I didn'tlisten. I think I might go for the Nikon D80 or the Pentax K10D. Thereason for being ambitious in wanting the D200 is that I will retiresoon and thought I could master 'The beast' when I have more time,but maybe I'll 'Test the water' first!.

The D200 is a truly awesome camera. With this awesomeness however, comes a serious demand on the photographer. If you're going to use it just for casual shooting, you will be more than likely very disappointed with the results. Pop over to the Nikon D1/D2 etc forum and cruise around, looking at D200 posts. There's one currently running from a wedding pro who is having all sorts of image problems with his new D200s (plural). It seems to be 'operator error', as he's got the same problems with both bodies and all his lenses (even Nikon slip up in QC sometimes, but not that often!).



The D200 also, as has been said, really deserves good lenses, which are expensive and heavy. And it's a great big heavy beast, not nice to carry around 'just for fun' - it's even worse with a big lens on it. Not to put it down - I own one and it's great; it's just not for everyone..

Pick up a D80 and a good lens or two - that will keep you happy for a very long time; investing time in learning a new skill is one thing (and very good, too), but pushing further than you need to can be counter-productive..

D80 or K10d? They're both quite good. One thing though - buying the D80 gives you access to almost every lens Nikon ever made (with a few, very specific, exceptions); Penatx has a new mount, with not too many lens choices available yet (but that will change in time, no doubt)..

Either way, enjoy yourself, and hang about in the relevant forum - your contribution will be appreciated.Rob.

Everyone, everywhere, has to do everything for a first time. There is no failure in failure, only in failing to learn...

I'd suggest handling the D80 and the D200s. There's nothing inherently bad about the D200, it's just not set up as a beginner camera. It is a lot larger and heavier, the build is more rugged, etc. has essentially no scene modes - which means you do more thinking in some ways that could be left to the camera with other cameras. But if you don't "need" the ruggedness or 5 fps, then there is no reason not to look at the D80 for it's perhaps more convenient or comfortable size..

The 18-200 vr Nikon lens is good (it's not flying off the shelves and being hard to find at $750 US because it's a stinker). Reading some of the competent reviews and comparing results with the 18-55, 18-70, 18-135 and 18-200 vr kit/walk-around lenses will help you consider initial lens choices. I happen to have the 18-70 and added the 70-300 vr which might be an acceptable alternative choice (close price-wise and maybe more available) to the 18-200 and won't offend the easily offended...

BraveUlysses wrote:.

D80 or K10d? They're both quite good. One thing though - buying theD80 gives you access to almost every lens Nikon ever made (with afew, very specific, exceptions); Penatx has a new mount, with not toomany lens choices available yet (but that will change in time, nodoubt)..

I don't think that you are correct in what you say about the Pentax mount. It IS correct to say there are not many used Pentax lenses around. It IS correct to say there are lots of used AF Nikon lenses around..

Christine,.

I endorse the comment that the leap from P & S to a D200 is massive. Another take - Consider a D50 new or reconditioned (There are still a few around) and get yourself some decent lenses then buy a D80s or a D200s once your skill levels are up to using the extra features. The D50 is a classic in the making. It will hold it's value very well so you can learn on it and make only a small loss when you sell on..

I bought a Nikon reconditioned one from Tecno as a backup to my D80 a months or so ago for 220 (body only).

Http://www.tecno.co.uk/...Store/c3585/2001-3585/Home/Refurbished/details.aspx.

They have refurbished D80s in at the moment but no D50s. A D80 with 17-70mm at 629 seems OK to me. (But do not delay or they will be gone!).

Chris Elliott.

*Nikon* D Eighty + Fifty - Other equipment in Profile.

Http://PlacidoD.Zenfolio.com/..

The reasoning behind my longing for the D200 is that I would have a camera with all the potential I will ever need should I ever need it. I think I will take everyone's advice and go for the D80 and the 18-70 lens. I am sure I will be more than happy with it and the D200 will fade into the sunset of my mind!Christine..

I would endorse what others have said..

A D200 is a serious pro camera and well underused with what is actually a general purpose travel lens ( albeit a good one )..

I'd suggest you consider a Nikon D40 (cheap and still very good ) with the Tamron 18250 or with the basic kit lenses ( which are fairly good ). In time you will identify the kind of photography you do and, hence, the requirements you have for camera body and lenses..

Essentially buying a D200 would be the equivalent of buying a Ferrari as a car to learn to drive in. Also a D200 is a pretty hefty beast - compare it's weight with the D40 !.

Any of the entry level DSLR will be excellent, as will their kit lenses at this stage of your development. Identify the ones you like to use ( how it feels to use ) in a camera shop or three and then choose..

If you must have a single all purpose lenses then the Tamron 18-250 would get my vote. It's consistently marked above other all-in-ones in reviews..

StephenG.

Fuji S9600Fuji S5200Fuji F30Fuji E900Canon A710ISPCLinuxOS..

So you are suggesting she learn by being forced to manually focus on everything she shoots??? The Tamron is not an AF-S compatible lens, so will not autofocus on the D40. Only AF-S and Sigma HSM lenses autofocus on the D40..

I also don't know why people insist that a particular camera is only for "serious" photographers and that you cannot, nor should you try, to grow into it. Why would I want to learn all about using scene modes if I eventually want a camera that doesn't have them? I'd rather cut my teeth on the tool that will work like I will have to work..

As for the D200 and the 18-200, Nikon created the lens for this very camera. No, it's not the greatest thing since sliced bread, but again, it's a starting point and a decent tool across a fairly broad spectrum. I started my D200 kit with the 18-200 and the 50mm f1.8. Now I've added the 17-55, the 35 f2, the 55 f2.8 AI-S micro, the Tamron 75-300 (stopgap while the 18-200 was in the shop), and now the 70-300VR. In the next few days, I'll be adding the Sigma 10-20 or the Tokina 12-24. Someday, I'll get the 70-200VR, but I will have to earn a lot of bonus points first (if you know what I mean)..

So, Christine, if you are serious about learning to use a great camera, don't sell yourself short because it's "too advanced". Just realize that there will be some hard work involved in learning what works and what does not work. The D200 begs to be shot in RAW and then the photos need to be processed in a good editor. So, for starters, budget at least $300 for software. That will get you Nikon Capture NX and Paint Shop Pro. It will cost substantially more if you want to go straight into Photoshop, and I would still get Nikon Capture NX.

You will need to understand exposure compensation, white balance, and how to use ISO when the lights not so good (you can with dSLRs). You will need to learn how to view a scene to get the most out of it..

Now, here's the kicker: you still have to do all those things with the D80. Oh, you can shoot jpg instead of RAW, but you can do that with the D200. RAW has more dynamic range on both cameras, so I would recommend you use it..

The bottom line: The D200 is a great camera. It will disappoint you if you don't treat it right, but treating it right just means putting in the effort to get it right. The D80 has the ability to massage your ego, but when it's doing that, you are not getting better, it's just masking your flaws. So, the question becomes, are you wanting to get serious about photography? That doesn't mean you have to want to be a pro. There are MANY great amateurs. If you still answer yes, then don't let anyone talk you out of the D200 just because it's a serious camera, just go in with your eyes open..

Cheers,Eric..

I think for most folks, the big differences between the D200 and the D80 would be the size and weight (to the extent that one carries extra weight or doesn't depending on choices). Whether some people will or won't admit it, I'd bet a significant portion of D200 users also seldom take it out of P (Programmed Auto) anyways. The presence of scene modes is convenient but doesn't mean an individual won't or can't learn to deal with different conditions. One can put the D200 in P but need not. Likewise, one could ignore all of the "extra" modes on the D80. I'm sure many folks do.



Back in the good old days, one matched needles and chose a desired speed or aperture from guess or memory..

If you intend to work towards taking advantage of the features of the d200, then there is no reason at all a beginner couldn't use it. But since many of it's advanced features might not be needed, choosing the D80 for it's smaller size and lighter weight is certainly a valid decision. I wouldn't suggest choosing it because someone said you "can't" or "won't" take advantage of all of the D200 features right away..

Size and weight is a valid decision criteria. When I swapped back to a dslr after having used a much smaller and lighter long zoom digicam when first juming from a film slr kit, the extra size of the dslr kit and it's weight was very obvious walking all over the San Diego Wild Animal Park or Zoo...

I also did not mean to say don't get the D80 because it is somehow a lesser camera (despite my long, rambling rant). Each is a tool. Cameras don't take pictures. Photographers do. So, in the end, get the tool that you will be most comfortable working with..

Cheers,Eric..

Thank you so much Eric, you have made me feel much better about my craving. You have stated exactly what I have tried to say! I am also grateful you have pointed out the fact that the D80 will also need a great deal of learning to master it. I do know I would not want to purchase a D40 or D40x, I just as well carry on with my PS45 digital as do that.I am willing to learn and will hopefully have more time to do so when I retire.Thank you again..

Chris..

I got a D200 as my first dSLR, so don't feel you can't do that, though a D80 is smaller and lighter and will give you the same image quality - it's a great camera..

If you compare the D200 and the D80 in a store, the latter feels like a toy to be honest - but if you bring out a D200 at a family gathering it will look pretty big. Carrying it round your neck even on a stroll in the park might be tiring..

Budget for a good lens - if you can afford it get the Nikkor 17-55 f/2.8 - superb build quality, superquick autofocus, and FAST. Great for portraits, landscapes, just about anything where too much reach is not required..

Later you can aim for the 70-300VR or even the superb (faster) 70-200VR. Another couple of inexpensive good ones are the 50mm f/1.8 or the 85mm f/1.8..

Good luck!.

Alex.

Http://akiralx.smugmug.com/..

Craig Gillette wrote:.

I'd bet a significant portion of D200 usersalso seldom take it out of P (Programmed Auto) anyways..

Whassat then? Never used it, ever. On any camera I've ever owned..

Back in the good old days, one matched needles and chose a desiredspeed or aperture from guess or memory..

Or, more appropriately, from an understanding of the information presented and learned skill. And match needle meters are still very useful if you understand how they work..

The extra size of the dslr kit and it's weight was very obvious walking all over the > San Diego Wild Animal Park or Zoo..

Tell me about it - D200 with grip + 70-200 VR lens = 2.7 kgs, nearly 6 pounds... But I wouldn't have it any other way..

A clean lens and clear thoughts,Rob.

Everyone, everywhere, has to do everything for a first time. There is no failure in failure, only in failing to learn...

Hello Christine,.

Just get the D200 with 18-200mm VR and you won't have to look back and have those coulda, shoulda. The D200 will last you for a long time and since you're willing to learn then why not spend your time and energy on the one you really want..

Best of luck to you,jacq..

BraveUlysses wrote:.

D80 or K10d? They're both quite good. One thing though - buying theD80 gives you access to almost every lens Nikon ever made (with afew, very specific, exceptions); Penatx has a new mount, with not toomany lens choices available yet (but that will change in time, nodoubt)..

Pentax has not changed their mount in any way for many years, sonce the KAF2 mount was introduced. All Pentax K-mount lenses will mount on the K10D/K100D bodies but in some of the older manual focus lenses, not all metering modes will be available for use. The same is true for older M42 mount lenses, with an adapter. You can also use any of the third party K-mount or M42 lenses as well so there are quite a lot of potential lenses out there. They just seem to be in short supply at the moment..

JohnPentax *ist-D, K100D, Oly Stylushttp://www.pbase.com/jglover..

Thank you all for your helpful comments. You know, I have wanted the D200 for a very long time just because of the potential it has. When I went out to see my son in Florida, I ordered it from a company called 'The New Connection' but it never arrived (Scam company) so I thought that must be an omen. Now, you have all encouraged me to go with my heart.......... and I will certainly learn with my head! I may not master it like a pro, but I will have a darned good try!.

I am working at the moment so can afford it, when I retire (hopefully within the next year) I will have time to use it properly.Thanks again folks.....most kind.Chris x..

Whichever you get, make sure you visit Thom Hogan's website and order the relevant e-book..

Http://www.bythom.com/d200guide.htm.

Is the link for the D200 book. Simply the best $35 you will spend on your camera. Hope to see you on the D200 forum shortly!.

Rob.

Everyone, everywhere, has to do everything for a first time. There is no failure in failure, only in failing to learn...

Thanks Rob, I will find the book here in England. I will be in touch to let you all know how I get on (or not!) with taming 'The beast'! I should know better than to go with my instincts, but there, some people never learn!Best wishesChris.

'I'm not sure whether I'm indecisive or not'..

Hope you get it.Rob.

Everyone, everywhere, has to do everything for a first time. There is no failure in failure, only in failing to learn...

The thing that never ceases to amaze me is that people will spend gobs of money on something like a top stereo receiver, a DSLR or a computer and then skimp on the high fidelity output devices; then they wonder why they dont get the same output quality that the pros and serious amatures get when every other factor is executed correctly..

The first questions any responder should be asking you is what kind of images do you forsee making now and in the future, what do you plan to do with those images, and how much do you forsee investing in your system over the long haul? The answer to you question will vary widely on ythese answers..

If someone asked me the same questions about buying a D200 without providing the abouve information, Id assume they were pretty serious about their desire to learn and shoot long term or they have money to burn. So Ill assume you want top quaity even if cost is a stretch..

What amazes me is all the cheap glass (lenses) people will waste good money on over the course of learning; theyll end up spending the far more over and over instead of just buying the best quality the first time..

If you can afford it or even stretch to afford it, dont buy a top of the line DSLR body then shackle it with cheap glass; instead, reverse your thinking and buy the best glass first; I assure you that as DSLR bodies come and go, glass is forever and by far the single most important hardware element other than your photographic skills..

Ive been doing photography for 35 years and went digital very early; give me any cheap camera body of any make (as long as it's reasonably accurate) and great glass and Ill technically make better images because of a) well learned fundamentals and b) top flight optics..

So, what would I do if I were you? Id pick a Nikor 28-70 2.8 AFS and D80 as my first body/lens combo. If you are really serious and price didnt matter at all, then Id spring for the D200. In either case, Id have you start out shooting in automatic program mode and jpeg at first and then explore every other mode and capability for years and years to come with your core exploration learning done in manual mode with RAW. Yep, it will cost a big outlay for either pair, but you will want for nothing as far as image quality (sharpness, color, contrast, flawlessness and so on) forever more..

If price is an issue, then youd be better off with a less costly body but Id still go for the best lens you can possibly afford. The wosrst case scenario with this philosophy is that even of you decide you arent that serious over the long haul, youll be able to sell that glass on eBay and get back +70% of your original investment a few months or ever a few years from now. If you cant afford the good glass new, then go to eBay and look for the same AF-S lenses in used/excellent condition from a private seller with a good feedback rating; people that sell them are usually selling them to get needed cash; hardly anyone sells them for other reasons..

Just my 2 cents worth...

Well Michael, 2 cents goes a long way if you use it wisely! Thanks for your input. I have ordered my D200 and the 18-200 glass (learning already!). It is of course the real 'Glass' so hopefully I will get the quality I have paid for. You know, I don't have big bucks to spend, but I feel I am going for the best I can afford at present. It may turn out to be a big mistake.... but it may be a very wise investment, whichever way, it isn't a fortune, I can justify spending that amount on something that will bring me pleasure, I have worked hard all my life, brought up two kids, and now spend a fortune on the Grandchildren and trips to see them.

I need a new Tv and wouldn't think twice about spending that amount even though I don't watch it very often! Let's get priorities in order here! I am at the latter end of my life and I think it is time to get frivolous!Best wishesChris..

Christine Oatley wrote:.

It is time to get frivolous!.

Ab-so-bl**dy-lutley, as they say where I'm from! It's party time! ;~D.

Rob.

Everyone, everywhere, has to do everything for a first time. There is no failure in failure, only in failing to learn...

Chris,.

Yes, it's all a matter of tradeoffs; you can't go wrong with the D200 and you made the right decision going with Nikon 18-200 AFS VR as a general purpose lens; you can make exceptional images with it. The only trade-off is the loss of wide 2.8 constant aperture especially as you zoom; the VR will make up for that somewhat and I think youll find out soon enough with that lens that the Auto-ISO feature of the D200 will become your best friend very quickly along with the VR. For the cost and what you can afford, I agree it was the wisest choice..

Congratulations....enjoy making images and post a few here once you do!.

Michael..

Thanks Michael, I seem to have made a lot of acquaintances with very good support, knowledge and advice on this site. My appreciation goes to you all..

I know very little about actual photography, only that I love taking pictures of things I love. That to me, of course, is the most important part. I paid a lot of money for my PS45 Canon a few years ago when Digital's were getting very popular. The money I am spending on the D200 plus glass, only equates to approximately the same amount with today's financial climate.......I think!.

Anyway, once I get to grips with my new friend, I will certainly show off my efforts and hope to get lots of feedback and constructive criticism.Thanks againChris..