AFS 18mm-55mm DX kit lens

[phiggys]

Just wondering if many users here have purchased this kit lens
If so have you read this review?

www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/1855.htm

I must say that it only confirmed my first impression after getting one with my wifes D50.

[screaminscott]

I've got it & use it on my D70s...Not a bad lens, I'm just concerned about build quality since it has a polycarbonate mount...I got it to have a somewhat wider lens due to the crop factor...Pics taken at the 18mm setting do need post processing correction...

Scott

[carlg51]

;)I got my D50 in January 06 when the prices dropped drastically. When I purchased it on January 27, there were deals for the D50 with both kit lenses the 18-55 and 55-200 DX, for just over $800 including shipping. I think now you can even beat that.

Anyway, those lenses gave me a great start with the D50. I still use the 18-55 DX more than any other lens.

Here is a photo, hand held and unenhanced. I think the colors are very rich and natural.

www.pbase.com/carlg51/image/64712833

One of my constant composition problems, I always forget to include "feet and ground" as you can see in this photo. I wish I would remember that when I am setting up "people photos".

[carlg51]

Regarding Rockwell's article, I did not read it until after my purchase. I have been guilty of recommending the 18-70 to others over the 18-55, since the range goes up to 70 and I assumed if it costs more it is better. I guess when ever considering lenses you have to greatly think ahead of time, how are you going to use it?, what is your budget?, what do you usually shoot?... I bought a Sigma 24-135, because of its price, the range was exactly where I was shooting, with both the Kit Lenses, and this way I could carry it. Also it had smaller f stops across the range, than either kit lens. It is a lens I am taking to the Samoyed National in Idaho, to do most of the in ring action shooting. I will be 2000 miles from home, I am flying, and I want to limit what I bring. I am still deciding what else to bring. I hope I don't kick my self for not bringing the kit lenses.

[jeffreyklassen]

Hmm that article is a intresting read, I may have to consider this lens for my backup body.

[Iwerk]

I bought the 18-55mm with my D70s purchase and it is up for sale in the Calgary, Alberta, Canada area.

This is a decent lens if you have a flash or are shooting daylight photos. It falls short in low lighting situations without a tripod or flash.

Local sale only. Try before you buy concept.
Jeffrey, if you are interested. 444-0691

[andrew7]

I still love the 18-70dx though, and I still think its one of the best lenses in its price range. A classic.

[Iwerk]

For folks on a really tight budget, I would have to recommend the 50mm f/1.8 AF for a $100 as being the sharpest focus lens for the money. The f/1.8 will also allow you to shoot great photos in low light situations without a tripod or flash. Add a $25 lens reversing ring to this setup and you can do incredible macro close-ups.

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andrew7 wrote:
I still love the 18-70dx though, and I still think its one of the best lenses in its price range. A classic.

[lexxx]

The 18-55 is a good lens for beginners, but after a while the low sharpness if you shoot raw becomes very annoying, and you will need a prime or a good f2.8 zoom, the 18-70 is much better but it has limits too. Personally i don't fully agree with Ken Rockwell's opinions, it tends to say about almost anything uses Nikon logo that is a good thing, and that's not always true.

[carlg51]

I have to agree with Lexxx. I am getting into that phase now, my shots with the kit lenses and other "consumer grade" lenses are becoming disappointing (in the area of sharpness). I purchased a Nikkor 70-200 2.8 VR - which is an incredible lens. My shots with the kit lens and other "multi-purpose" lenses are beginning to bug me.

In the VR thread, below, I give a comparison of the Kit lens vs. the 70-200 VR at Manassas Battlefield, the Stonewall Jackson statue. I know the 70-200 is a $1500 lens and the kit lens is $150-$300 at most.

Someone said to "buy the best glass that you can afford". I would say "INVEST in the best glass that you can afford".

I do enjoy testing the lenses and trying to get the best photo I can from the lens. I think a lot of Rockwell's statements are because he is encouraging new folks.

There is good even in the consumer grade cameras and lenses - get them into peoples hands at a fair price and get them taking the best photos for what they want to do.

Me, I eventually want to sell my work, or get paid for projects, so I better learn to consistently take the best photos I can that give the client a better value than they can do themselves.

I am picking up a Nikkor 85mm 1.8 prime tonight. It has gotten some great reviews and fits in for dog portrait shootings I have planned over the next few weeks.