Which Lens would you suggest?

[Lea]

If you had the choice of lenses to purchase which one would you recommend? I would like a partial wide angle for landscapes, with portrait capabilities. Preferably 2.8 for low light captures, with VR
Help would be appreciated. I've purchased a Tamron 18-250mm 1:35-63 (IF) Macro which gives good results but not good in low light.

[Jeff Thomas]

Tokina 11-17mm f2.8, I have tried it and it is wonderful. Waiting for my local camera store receive a shipment in 2 weeks. Give it a try.

[Lea]

Thanks Jeff will check it out

[Jeff Thomas]

oops, I made a typo, it is 11 - 16mm f2.8, but give it a try and let me know what you think
Jeff

[Lea]

I did some research last night after getting your reply. Looks like the feed back on this lens is outstanding. Price is great, well built, only problem is finding one.. Seems very popular

[Lea]

OK Jeff, I've been frothing over the Tokina 11 - 16mm f2.8 lens now since you brought it to my attention. Only problem for the life of me I can't find one to order! Back ordered or unavailable everywhere. Been searching now for a couple of weeks with no results, don't want to deal with gray market. Any ideas where one can be had? Even have my nephew searching in New York for me. Any ideas please let me know. Thanx (your fault I'm frothing, LOL)

[Grant]

I would get a Nikon 12 - 24mm. It would be fine for landscapes. I wouldn't worry so much about portraits. You would be better just to get a separate lens for portraits like the Nikon like the 35mm f1.8 or use your existing super lens.

I think you have one 'do all' lens, now you are thinking about more specialized uses so maybe get a lens for each purpose.

Grant

[Lea]

Appreciated that suggestion. I had the chance to trial the Nikon 12-24mm. Nice lens and was considering it but for what I will be using for, extreme low light I would prefer 2.8. Was also considering the Tokina 12-24mm f/4 but the ones who have tried the Tokina 11 - 16mm f2.8 really recommend it. Cost is also an issue plus I have a Nikon 1.8 50mm on it's way. I like the Tamron 18-250 for all purpose, carry around. Already have Nikon 70-200 2.8 VR and absolutely love this lens. (fast and sharp for concert shooting ect.) No doubt I would prefer Nikon but...
Unfortunately had a bait and switch type of ordeal with Adorama happen when I ordered the 11-16mm last week. After ordering it (as backorder, told perhaps two week wait) got a notice that it was available for cheaper. When questioned they said I was wrong and that it could take 3 months to get the lens. So looking to see if anyone has a better source for availability.
LOL was just reflecting on our comments on gear in the other discussion.. Guess we are caught up in technology huh?

[T. Stratton]

I had the same experience with Adorama when ordering a Panasonic pro-Video camera a few years ago. After taking my business CC# (with my name on it) they called me up a few days later and said that there was a problem processing the card. They needed to "verify" it was actually me using the card. WTF?
I've never had that problem - EVER. I told them to cancel the order but they had already charged the card. Bottom line was that they wanted to sell me a warranty and some additional batteries "because they had saved me so much money with the camera purchase".
I turned them in to the BBB and will NEVER use them again!

[Lea]

Oh so they are turning by way of the Gray Market dealers in New York City now.. Makes sense.. Too bad!

[Lea]

After days of emails, phone calls, and back order problems, I'm totally stoked! I'll make my deadline
Found the lens in the Seattle area.. not New York, not California, China or Ebay. The only Nikon lens I was able to find IN STOCK at
http://www.kenmorecamera.com/ Reasonably priced, Great shipping charges also. So if your are interested give Dave Gwynn a call at 1-888-485-7447 tell him Lea recommended him.
Will be here on Friday.
Thanks Jeff for the suggestion for this lens.

[Lea]

Got it tonight. An awsome lens! Well constructed and tight. Feels like a professional lens. Have only taken a couple of shots so far but my first impression is WOW (new learning curve again)
I would highly recommend you check this one out.
Thanks Jeff

First shot

[Jeff Thomas]

Glad you like it!!! Now I have to seriously consider getting it. Look forward to seeing more pictures taken with it.
Jeff