Wide angle zoom for 35mm and DSLR options?

[stank]

I presently have a N8008s with a Nikon 28-105 AF-D and am planning to

buy a D70s. With the adjustment factor for the D70, my present lens is

not very wide. So, I am wondering what my options are for a wide

angle zoom (Nikon or other) that will work with both the N8008s and

the D70. I'll set the budget at =< $500.

 

Thanks in advance

Stan

[erik_loza]

Have you considered a wide prime for the situations where you really need it and hanging

onto your existing lens (which is a nice one) for the rest of it all? 20mm f2.8 AF's are

readily available on the used market for about $200 and are a small and excellent lens.

The net result on your DSLR would be pretty much what you're used to on the wide end of

your current zoom on the film body. Plus, that would keep $300 in your pocket. Good luck

in your search.

[steakandale]

For zoom that serves both, you have to stick with a non-DX film lens. The 18-35 f3.5-4.5 is about the only one near your budget but it is over $400 new. maybe you can snag a used one in top shape for a better price.

 

Your 28 will become something less than a 35mm on the D70 so there is not that much loss, unless you really live on the wide end. Another option would be to pick up a used super wide prime. The 18-35 will overlap your existing zoom over half its range too. You are only talking about a one lens jump in focal length range from super wide to wide so the loss in convenience in not having a zoom is minimal - have to change lenses either way - but you will get a faster lens going to a good prime.

 

The DX kit lens for the D70 is a decent lens too, but wont do anything for the N8008.

[tom_burke3]

There is an argument that says 'get the 18-70 kit lens for the D70S; leave that lens on that

camera, and leave the 28-105 on the N8008s'. The point is that the 18-70 on the D70 will

behave almost exactly like the 28-105 on the N8008s.

[richard_laepple]

Stan, the least expensive way is probably having 2 zooms, your 28-105 for film and a new DX-sized one for digital. As suggested above I'd also recommend the D70 kit lens (18-70).

[bernard_frank]

I shoot both Nikon film and digital SLRs and I don't think I would buy a DX lens, because I

couldn't use it on my film bodies as well. I wouldn't even buy a G lens, because I have both

an F6 and two MFs. At least for now. Why don't you consider Nikon's 18-35/3.5-4.5 AF-D?

It would be a good choice. The 17-35/2.8 would be top, but that's over your budget (and

mine).

[briany]

The 18-35 would be a good choice. Read the reviews at:<br>

<a href="http://www.naturfotograf.com/lens_zoom_01.html#AF18-35ED">http://www.naturfotograf.com/lens_zoom_01.html#AF18-35ED</a><br>

<a href="http://www.bythom.com/1835lens.htm">http://www.bythom.com/1835lens.htm"</a><br>

<a href="http://www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/1835.htm">http://www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/1835.htm</a><br>

<a href="http://www.vividlight.com/articles/1012.htm">http://www.vividlight.com/articles/1012.htm</a><br>

and Galen Rowell called it a fixture in his bag <a href="http://www.mountainlight.com/rowell/gr_camera_bag.html">here</a>.<br>

<br>

I liked it a lot on film, but as it duplicates my 18-70mm on the D70 and I rarely (almost never) shoot film anymore, it has been gathering dust. If you're interested in purchasing a used copy in excellent condition, let me know.

[stank]

The kit lens is an idea, but I am hoping to take advantage of shorter focal lenth for my 8008 (ie. wider than 28mm). Nikon's 18-35mm sounds like it fits the bill both literally and in functionality. I have to admit the speed of the prime is attractive.

 

What about lenses from Sigma or Tamron or other? Do they have anything that compares to the 18-35 from Nikon?

 

Thanks

Stan

[warren_tang]

i've had good results with a Sigma 15-30mm. I use it on my F4s and D100. You may be able to find a used on in your price range. It's a bulky lens, but solidly built.

 

--Warren

[warren_tang]

I forgot to mention that I also picked up an ultra-wide prime that I use on both formats... I found a used Tokina 17mm f3.5 ATX that I've been happy with.

 

--Warren