Comments on: Lazyweb: which entry-level Nikon setup to go for?

By: David Fisher

David Fisher — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 00:05:12 +0000

I’ve been shooting Nikon for over a year now and simply love it. I have a D200 and I’d say to actually consider trying to find a D200 used.

The 18-200 is a pretty killer lens. I carry the 18-200 and the 50mm 1.8 always. The D40 and D60 are pretty good, but a used D200 is much more pro. Forget megapixels. I definitely want a 30mm 1.4 myself.

Fast glass definitely is key. Ken Rockwell has excelent points and is great.

By: Eric

Eric — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 04:11:58 +0000

Hey Joe,

I’m not sure all the ins and outs of the D40 vs D60, I can say I have been shooting with a D80 for a while and love it and it seems like any of the Nikons would be a good choice.

I do have two lenses though a Nikkor 18-135mm and a fixed focal length 50mm. So anyway my 2¢ would be to buy the D40 and save the cash in case you “need” another lens.

By: Shilad

Shilad — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 15:48:25 +0000

I’m a Canon guy, but here’s my two cents:

1. I would definitely go for the D-60. MP’s aren’t everything, but $175 for the additional res and features seems like a nice return.

2. The lens question is tough. On my Canon I have an image-stabilized 18-55 and the 50/1.8 you mentioned. I use the 50/1.8 whenever possible, but that is still not often. I originally had an un-stabilized 18-55 kit similar to the one you are considering. I didn’t like it - partly due to low light behavior, but also image quality.

If I were you, I’d start off with the prime 30 you mention, but plan on adding one additional lens when you get the cash. Personally, I’m not sure I could live without a second lens for more than six months. My second lens would either be a general purpose zoom with good low light behavior, or perhaps the awesome 18-200 VR (sadly there is no Canon equiv for this lens).

Let me me know what you decide! -Shilad