Basic Lense Package

[mitscherman]

I will purchase some new lenses for my Nikon D70s in the near future and would like some opinions on which lenses you would recommend for shooting weddings, schools, portraits, and events.

Should I buy fixed or zoom lenses or a combination of both? Without over-kill which lenses would you recommend?

Having done some preliminary research, the following lenses are currently on my list:

Fixed: 28/1.8; 50/1.8; and 85/1.8 Cost est: $750.00
Zoom: 14-24/2.8; 17-55/2.8; and 70-200/2.8 Cost est: $4,450.00

I am also considering a Nikon D300 camera to supplement the D70s.

Your thoughts/experience are welcome. Thank you!

[reval8r]

For event and portraiture a zoom in the range of 24-70mm that's in the F2.8 range would be a good place to start. This lens would cover individuals and groups nicely while helping in low light. This type of photography I find zooms are good and I like the softer image for people photography. Prime lens are sharper, but it gets down to personal preference. If you plan on shooting many events, I would highly recommend back-up equipment. Have at least 2 camera bodies and 2 of your favorite lens. Something else to consider, is how much gear you want to lug while working these events. I like two camera bodies, each with a different focal length lense. That way there is much less lens changing and I shoot with zoom lens for events. I wouldn't recommend buying lots of gear to start. After you shoot a couple of events, you'll find what works for you and what you like to use.

[jerryph]

Depends on what your needs are. More indoors, or outdoors?

Outdoors, the Nikon pros love to use the 70-200VR, but its quite an expensive lens (between $1700-$1900US). It is incredibly sharp, and it is fast (F/2.8)... but it is a heavy lens to tote around the next for an afternoon.

Now, for portraiture, thats a little closer, you should have the "Nifty-Fifty"... the very affordable 50mm F/1.8 prime. Very nice in low light and since it is a prime, its quite sharp. At under $110US, it is also VERY affordable.

As for my 2nd most favorite portraiture lens indoors, I love the Sigma 18-50 F/2.8 HSM macro... it's excellent, as a general portrait lens, and very sharp.

In think that for my most favorate portrature lens is the Sigma 30mm HSM F/1.4 lens. Very sharp, VERY fast and crisp tight pictures.

A lot depends on your style, what and where you shoot and lighting conditions.