Short-term cash needs require me to sell my 70-200 VR. I need to replace it with another lens, hopefully a 'tweener to be used only for a year or so until cash flow gets stronger and I can afford to buy back some of the pro gear I'm letting go now.
The goal is to get great IQ at a much lower cost than the Nikon 70-200. Variations in focal length are OK, and so is using two lenses. But I'd like the short end of the solution to start around 50-70mm and go out to at least 200mm. I use D300 bodies, so DX/FX is irrelevant as I can use any lens.
My thoughts on that is that there are 2 ways to go. Either a 70-300vr which can be very sharp, no speed demon but good end results overall, and will run you around $450. The other option if you wish to retain that typical 70-200 range and get great IQ but are willing to sacrifice a bit of focus speed, the Tamron 70-200 f2.8 LD is a great choice. I happen to own both and they both have their place. If you're looking to isolate the subject you won't beat the Tamron, no matter how much you spend on a zoom. Figure on about $700 for that choice. The Tamron is pretty sharp at the center but retains excellent sharpness in the corners. Wide open the Nikkor is a bit less so in the corners but has the sharpness in the center wide open, but that's not at f2.8 remember. The Tamron by f3.5 is scary sharp all across the frame (I've tested mine with resolution charts to determine this as well.) Nice build as well, but like I said, if you get the Tammy in lower light the focus slows considerably so it's not a low light sports lens by any means. In good light it does just fine.
I have 7 70-300,s (they are our go to glass for ski pics) and they are probably the best value for money lense on the market.
I have sold billboard pics taken with this little wonder, it's sharp as a tack, quick focusing, small and built OK.
If you don't need a fast lense and don't shoot alot of low light stuff it's a no brainer.
Gav
First, thanks to everyone for the advice. I appreciate the time taken. I'll try to figure out a fair price for my 70-200 and have it on the B&S board in a day or so.
I've looked at every lens suggested (even Andre's late entry ), and I've decided to buy a 70-300VR. Seems like the best choice for this need, covers all the bases for the least amount of money, has good IQ, and will serve well from now until that time when I can repurchase a 70-200VR for the fast aperture and gorgeous bokeh.
), and I've decided to buy a 70-300VR. Seems like the best choice for this need, covers all the bases for the least amount of money, has good IQ, and will serve well from now until that time when I can repurchase a 70-200VR for the fast aperture and gorgeous bokeh.