The beauty of owning a DSLR camera is that it allows you to change the lenses. Most entry level cameras come with a kit lens, and while that’s handy to start out, sticking with just that lens defeats the purpose of having a DSLR.
So, which lenses should you buy?
Well, some of this will depend on the camera you purchased, but most brands have the same or similar lenses available. If you’re still on the fence about choosing a camera, check out this article to help guide you.
What’s wrong with the kit lens?
Nothing is wrong with it if you are content with keeping everything basic. The kit lens generally, does not have the highest quality glass. While you will get a better result than your phone or some point-and-shoot cameras, if you’re looking to take more control of the camera and work with some other settings such as Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority, or Manual the kit lens will limit you.
So, which lens should I buy first?
My favorite lens to begin with is the 35mm 1.8 or the 50mm 1.4. Both of these lenses are considered Prime lenses and are known for their sharp images. They are also called fixed lenses meaning they are stuck at a fixed focal length. They will not zoom in or out so you will have to do the zooming with your feet. These lenses are excellent in low light situations, especially when you are first learning how to shoot in manual mode. From there, the sky is the limit. There are a ton of different portrait and event lenses. I encourage you to research them all to find one that suits your needs and your wallet.
What about zoom lenses?
Your zoom lenses will be necessary for sporting events and landscape photography. There are so many to choose from, but there are two very popular ones that photographers have on their list of must haves: the 24-70mm 2.8 and the 70-200mm 2.8. From there, you’ll have to choose based on what you’re wanting to photograph.
This is getting really expensive…
Well, yes. Whether it’s for business or a hobby, you are going to feel it in your wallet. But there are a couple ways to save some dinero. Amazon carries many of these lenses. You’re not necessarily going to find a better price purchasing a new lens from Amazon, however, if you have an Amazon credit card and you rack up points, those can be applied to your lenses!🙌🏻
Another option is to buy used gear. I know many people who do this and have had no problem. I, personally, don’t care for this option as I tend to have bad luck with technology anyway, I don’t want to risk it.
A third way to save some money is to buy refurbished products. This is by far my favorite way! ALL of my cameras have been refurbished and 2/3 of my lenses have also been purchased this way. Here’s what is great about refurbished products…when you buy from a trusted dealer, like the Nikon website, you also receive a 90 day warranty with the product. I feel so much better knowing there’s a safety net. Refurbished products are ones that have been repaired, but they can’t sell new again, or products that have been used as display models. It’s a great option for purchasing expensive gear.
Now go for it!
Have a great time with your new gear! Drop me a line to let me know what you’re getting, and feel free to ask for help. I will also be hosting a “How to Use my DSLR” workshop after Christmas, so stay tuned for that.
Happy Shopping!
