Lens Acquisition Syndrome

[spesh]

I already have a Nikon 1.8D, the 24-70 f2.8 and the 70-200 f2.8 and I've been investigating adding to the collection. I think I have narrowed it down to 3 lenses

105 f2.8 Macro - macro photography
85 f1.4G or D - portrait photography
14-24 f2.8G ED - wide angle

Is it worth adding the 85mm as I have that range covered by the 70-200? Is the G really worth twice as much as the D? Is the 14-24 as useful as it looks at weddings or more for landscape shots?

Just trying to work it all out - wish I had the funds for both G model lenses - I could get away with the 85mm 1.4D and the 14-24G but not sure if the step up from the D to the AF-S G version is something I'll miss or could do without.

[tommyg]

Hey spesh,

We have all 3 lenses... so here's my 2 cents worth (although with the rounding to the nearest 5 cents .. makes it worthless )

Is it worth adding the 85mm as I have that range covered by the 70-200? Is the G really worth twice as much as the D?

We have the 1.4D lens, and it's a great lens - very sharp and fast, and it gives a very nice creamy background. Definitely worthwhile for wedding closeups etc. Not sure whether the G is worth the extra money - you are welcome to borrow and play with if you like

Is the 14-24 as useful as it looks at weddings or more for landscape shots?

This lens is a must have! Simple
It is brilliant for wedding etc, the only thing you need to be careful about with this lens is not getting too close to people (you can take photos from 20cms away, thinking you are still a few metres from them!) This lens is on my camera most of the time unless at the Zoo ... don't take it to the Zoo!
If you are using on D700 (if I recall that's your camera) - this lens is amazing!

105 f2.8 Macro - macro photography

Possibly the least used of these 3 lenses for me, but a great lens for closeup work (weddings shots of rings, hands etc)

Hope that helped

[aim54x]

I own none of the trio...but they are all on my to buy lists. However on the other hand I am constantly using these lenses.

14-24mm - definitely a must buy if you want an awesome wide angle, and as tommy has said....great for tight situations

85 1.4 - simply stunning lens, the G really does pop! add silent focus (seriously silent focus!!) and you have a simply amazing lens. It has been awhile since I have handled the D though.

105 Micro - I have a 60 Micro and a 180 Shitma Macro so I have held off buying this lens. I feel that if I am to justify the 85 I really should hold off the 105VR, and I have an old 135mm f/2.8 AI so i am pretty covered for both macro and portrait (esp when I get my 85)

[chrisk]

i have experience with all of them. i would suggest that you define what it is that you want to use these lens for prior to buying anything.

Is it worth adding the 85mm as I have that range covered by the 70-200?

range covered ? sure. but its not at 1.4, 2 stops is well....2 stops. its also significantly smaller, lighter and less obtrusive. so imho, its not even comparable to the 70-200.

D vs G...owned the D. sold it a long time ago. frustrated with the contrast/ sharpness wide open, disappointed with the the AF being too slow and noisy. the G ? it is spectacular.

Is the G really worth twice as much as the D?

its not double the price. last i looked its about $500 more. "worth" is highly subjective. for me, its worth more than that cos it focuses properly. that to me is absolutely invaluable. with your current lens lineup you will notice a serious deterioration in AF performance in the D but you will not be disappointed optically. both versions are VERY special.

Is the 14-24 as useful as it looks at weddings or more for landscape shots?

a brilliant lens. but for landscapes, i have to say i am not a fan of it cos of the filter issue. i would also consider the 16-35/4VR or if you don't necessarily need the width...the 24/1.4G.

you have some nice glass on your hands and you're also looking at some special lens'. you cant go wrong.

and pls...if you;re going to talk about afflictions...pls get the terminology right. its NAS, (Nikon Acquisition syndrome). most of us feel your pain...and pleasure....to varying degrees.

[DebT]

but youv'e forgotten the really big prime 300 or 400 2.8 ...
DebT