Lens recommendations for a Nikon D7000

[novicegeek]

My wife just ordered a Nikon D7000 (to add to her growing menagerie of cameras). It's coming with an 18 - 200 mm DX VR lens. But she's interested in purchasing some other lenses in the future. She's interested in some telephoto work (like 300 mm) and macro. I think she'd like to add a wide angle lens to her collection as well.

Do you have any recommendations? Price is also somewhat of a consideration.

Thanks.

 

[EvanK]

For tele, the 70-300 f4 is a good lens, but performance at the higher end isn't the greatest. You may want to just swap the 18-200 out for an 18-300. If zooming isn't a concern though, the 300 f4 is an excellent prime, and the new 70-200 f4 is nothing short of amazing. However, you won't be gaining any range on the long end.

For macro, either the 105 2.8 micro, or if you're on a budget the 40 2.8 DX micro is a great option. You may also want to consider investing in a good standard prime like a 50 1.8 or 35 1.8.

Wide angle wise, my personal favorite is the Tokina 11-16 2.8. It doesn't have a huge zoom range, but makes up for it in performance. It's top notch, and feels like a premium product. If you're sticking with Nikon, the 10-24 is okay, but the performance is of a lesser caliber, it's slower, and honestly feels like a plastic toy. The Nikon is cheaper though.

Did you have any set budget in mind?

 

[novicegeek]

Evan, thanks for the input. We don't have a budget, per se. Because of the price of these lenses, she's going to get them one at a time, over a period of time. Right now, she's interested in seeing what lenses would be a good choice. I appreciate your insights on that.

And while you're reading this, can you tell me what you think of the len she ordered with the camera. She had the choice between that one and the 18-105 mm. It was a tough call for her. Do you think she made a good decision or no?

Thanks again.