4 replies to this topic

[Cossack]

Hello:

I'm new to the SLR world. My wife and I took the plunge from a point & shoot and just purchased a new Pentax K10D, with the supplied 18-55 lens. We're looking forward to experimenting with our new camera and taking lots of great vacation and baby shots. One thing were curious about. If we were to upgrade to a decent, all-purpose lens, what would someone recommend (without breaking the bank as the camera was only $800, including lens). I've thought about the 18-250, although I'm not sure I wanted to spend $500. But maybe I'm just being naive and that's the realty

I welcome the wisdom of you more experiences SLR users. Cheers!

[chappo1]

I suggest you read KenP's comment in the lenses section under new lens for DSLR. Ken has a Pentax.
I just purchased a Sigma 17-70 lens to replace the kit lens that came with my Konica-Minolta and am very happy with it. it focuses down to 20cm as well.
It was $435 Australian dollars so ought to be $360ish US
john

Hello:

I'm new to the SLR world. My wife and I took the plunge from a point & shoot and just purchased a new Pentax K10D, with the supplied 18-55 lens. We're looking forward to experimenting with our new camera and taking lots of great vacation and baby shots. One thing were curious about. If we were to upgrade to a decent, all-purpose lens, what would someone recommend (without breaking the bank as the camera was only $800, including lens). I've thought about the 18-250, although I'm not sure I wanted to spend $500. But maybe I'm just being naive and that's the realty

I welcome the wisdom of you more experiences SLR users. Cheers!

[kenp]

Hello!...........a lens for the K10!..................for a good all round lens you cant really beat the Tamron 28/300!........Of all the kit lenses supplied by the top makers eg Canon,Nikon and the likes ,the Pentax 18/55 kit comes out streets ahead!.......I am now buying Pentax second hand lenses as they all work on the modern digitals,there are some beauties knocking about at very reasonable prices!. As for now I would go for the Tamron ,I'm sure you will find it covers all your present needs!........hope this is of some help...............Ken

[Cossack]

Thanks for the tips, guys! Of course, now that I am considering spending an additional $300 (after exchanging my 18-55 lens), I'm wondering if getting the Nikon D80 with either the 18-70 or 18-135 kit lens is another way to go. Both those kit options are about $1200 Canadian.

[chappo1]

If you are not committed to the Pentax......................
I am not going to get into a brands debate as folks can get very passionate. I have always had either Nikon or Minoltas. I had a Nikon cool[pix digital but when the DSLR's came along I went for Konica Minolta. The reason is that it has image stabilisation in the body gives 2 to 4 (depending on who you believe) F stops advantage over brands that do not have it unless you go to IS lens's which are expensive. Minolta morphed into Konica/ Minolta and now Sony.
Olympus also have image stabilisation in the body.
Now if you are not going to shoot long lens at slow shutter speed it will not matter but I thought I should set it down for you to think about.
Once you choose your brand and buy some lenses you will not want to change brands so do your thinking and homework first..john