Which lens for BB?

<p>I want to photograph my sons BB games this season in dimly lit gyms and could use some lens advice. I own a Nikon 50 f/1.4G and D, 85 f/1.4D and 35-70 f/2.8D. Of the three which would you choose? I won't have the option to roam the court so want something to cover with one lens close to the basket. BTW, camera would be a D700 and if the high iso isn't to bad maybe my D300s as a backup. I generally photograph family and nature.</p>

<p>Of the three you mention, I'd use the 35-70 and bump up the ISO on your D700. Then, save up for...the Nikkor 70-200 f/2.8 VRII ($2400)...the new 70-200 f/4 which is about $800 cheaper but a bit less effective in low light.</p>

<p>Thanks for the tip, I also have a Sigma 70-200 HSMII that I'll try. Do I really something wide for BB?</p>

<p>One other thing...your D700 is supposed to be pretty good at high ISO, so do some experimenting to see how high you can go. ISO 1600 shouldn't be a problem (although I don't use the D700, so...). As to the need for a wide angle, if you can't roam the court and you are stuck in the stands, you may not need it. Now, if you get access to the sidelines or just behind the basket, it could be useful. Just my 2 cents...</p>

<p>If you're under net, then the 50mm or 85 will be perfect on a D700. The 70-200 if you're along the side court. </p>

<p>Dave</p>

 

<p>The 35-70 is your best bet. It gives you flexibility as players come closer or move away. The 50 and 85 are faster but 1.4 gives you so little depth of field that it's likely to reduce your percentage of in-focus shots.</p>

<p>Practice with the 35-70. The push-pull for sports is an acquired talent. I would use the 85 1.4. That's my main lens for indoor sports. 1/320 at 2.2 and a good ISO like 2500 and it's golden in almost any indoor situation. </p>

<p>Mark:<br>

I have been shooting basketball for several years, and I would recommend the Nikon 50 F/1.4G. Why? Speed. It's more than fast enough to give you high shutter speeds to stop action. It's compact and small for easily handling when shooting under the basket and capturing fleeting action. Secondly, I'd choose the 85 for shots out near the free throw line or shots of players driving to the basket. The 35-70 is good but at times, give you too much choice. Concentrate on learning one lens and camera combination, then add to your other lenses to your skill set.</p>

<p>For indoor basketball I use a Nikon 85mm f1.8, wide open. For under the basket, I use a Nikon 35mm f2.<br>

I did try a Nikon 200mm F2 one time and loved it. Great lens for getting capturing your team playing defense under the far basket.<br>

I'd love to try a Sigma 20mm F1.8 for under the basket.</p>