Nikon AF-S DX 18-200

[peewee3ie]

January 30, 2011 at 1:26 am

Hi,

Has anyone use the Nikon AF-S DX 18-200 F/3.5-5.6g ED VRII lens. I am thinking of getting this lens as I have read some reviews of it and the Tamron and the Sigma verion of it and it seems to be better. one of the reviews I have read was in the “Digital Camera” mag February 2011.

I know its a dear lens. I am thing of it as I help a friend dos sound and lighting for diffrent shows ie school plays and also for some bands as well. I would like to take some photos at these show but most of the time I have to take them form where we are sitting which could be about 30 foot back from the stage. it would be nice to be able to stand up for a few mins and take some shots.

[ossie13]

February 2, 2011 at 8:50 am

Hi Tony

I have the Mk1 version of this which I use as a “holiday” lens when I only want to carry a camera and one lens! I have had no problems with this lens and have been very pleased with the results. (have a look at my flickr they are all tagged).

I do not think this is the lens you need as you will mainly be shooting indoor so a faster lens ,f2.8 would be more beneficial, I know the 70-200VR is very expensive but perhaps you should look at the older 80-200 and perhaps maybe pick up a 2nd hand one? You could also look at the Sigma/Tamron models?

Steve

[peewee3ie]

February 2, 2011 at 9:46 am

Hi Steve,

Thank you for your reply. I am glad to here from someone with the lens.

I would like one lens for out and about and it seem to be the one. I can get it new for about 600 euros and i will have about 300 euros left to get another lens. I mite also get another lens for indoor as well but with a shorter zoom. I am finding the lens that came with my camera a bit limiting as its 18-55.

[veryspecialguests]

February 16, 2011 at 12:07 am

Hi Tony,

I also own the mark 1 version. Picked it up for 350 second hand in perfect nick (might be worth looking for a second hand one yourself). I agree with Steve, this lens is not really fast enough for indoor low light esp zoomed in, but with high iso you might get respectable results.

I purchased this lens recently and so far I’m very pleased, its sharp and contrasty.. a definite upgrade from the 18-55 kit lens if that is what you own, the difference in sharpness at 18mm is quite noticeable, I was surprised and pleased. The vr if very effective, but only for static subjects of course.

I found the build quality to be acceptable if not remarkable, with the focus ring feeling under-damped, but this is a second hand lens that said. Overall feels solid and like it will last. I’d defiantly recommend it for a general lens.. but not low light indoor!