melanie_thornberg

<p>Looks like I have a lot to consider. It sounds like upgrading to a newer body style and going with the FP lenses might be my best bet to stay under budget. Thanks everyone for the help.</p>

<p>Thanks for all the info! What would be a decent camera that is a step up? I don't follow Nikon's numbering sequence and it is pretty confusing to me. I hesitate to switch to Canon but I am not opposed to it. Any ideas? Looking to stay under $1000 for a used/refurb model to be sure it is what I want before deciding on a new one.</p>

<p>For most matches, I can generally be mat-side. Which of the two will give me the most flexibility when moving from bleachers to matside, the 85/1.8 or the 50/1.4? Also, does it eliminate the "noise" better than shooting with the 18-55 or 55-200?</p>

<p>Hi all, <br>

I have a Nikon D3000 and routinely shoot indoor wrestling tournaments. I know that the Nikon 70-200 is the best lens, with the Sigma 70-200 also being an option. My question, is there a more affordable lens (under $1000 range) that would produce similar quality photos in high school gymnasium lighting? I want to avoid using a stand alone flash, if possible, due to limited space and too much potential for damage. My current flash (a Walmart special) is not cutting it either. Should I invest in a better flash? Splurge for the 70-200 lens, or use a 70-300 (which is cheaper for reasons I have no idea)? Or is there another lens that will give me the results I want but not break the bank? Thanks for any help!</p>