New Lens for Nikon D80

[wblanton]

I am looking for lens for a new lens for my Nikon D80, I'm not quite sure what I want. I know I at least want a zoom lens, but am unsure which focal length, brand etc. I either want one that goes down to around 16-18mm or another that will go up to 400mm with low F-stops on both. IS/VR is preferred and price is almost not an object. It will mostly be used for trains, but since I will be starting a new job as a pilot for Mesaba airlines I will need something that will be used for aviation photography as well, including shots from within the airplane. Thanks for the help.

[cf73]

I can not advise too much on the longer end of the focal length, I have a 70-300mm VR which is a good lens, but if your budget is not really limited you would be able to get better.
However I recently bought a 10-20mm Sigma which would be perfect for the inside cabin shots you are after.
I would think the best option is to get two lenses.

[wblanton]

I would think the best option is to get two lenses.

I'm gettin one or the other for a specific use, I'm not trying to find one to cover both. I think the distortion on the extreme ends of the focal lengths wouldn't be worth getting the lens. The other will just have to wait for a while, I just need to figure out which one I will use more.

[seahawk]

If you are travelling a lot and want one lens that will do in most situations I would go for the Nikon AF-S 18-200 VR. Not perfect on both ends, but good enough and better then not getting the picture.

[Billsville]

I can reccomend the 18-200 VR. Very nice versatile lens for walk around general stuff, but good long as well.

[photoid=6172311]
[photoid=6164779]
[photoid=6136845]

All taken with the 18-200mm VR

[Diezel]

I also own the 18-200 and agree with the others. It's a good choice! Most problems I have with this lens is with high contrast images. CA is very visible but correctable in PS. A very good lens for a nice price.

For the longer ranges and if money is no object, I would recommend the 200-400 F4/VR. It's unbeatable quality wise but cumbersome to travel with and very, very expensive. The lens does however fit in a Lowe minitrekker together with a body and the 18-200

A very good alternative is the 300mm F4. It's light and has great quality. You can use it within the cockpit.

Good luck!

Roel.

[pdeboer]

I can recommend the 18-200 VR as well, I also have the 18-70 and 70-300 without VR, but since I have the 18-200 VR, I hardly use the other lenses anymore.

cheers, Pamela