Late to the thread, but I love both the advice and specific suggestions in this thread. I tend to buy gear about once every two years or so, but spend $1-5K at a time. Seems I get more things that I really want that way and limits impulse buying. Spending more time researching and listening to the advice from this group can save you a lot of money over time.

DannyP said:
And, of course, there's the little detail that the camera officially belongs to the company, not me. So I can't really just up and sell it and replace it. :-)

Oh, there is that. Well, if you ever convince yourself you need a camera of your own, I stand by my suggestion. It's like those advertising lines "If you like...then you'll also like..."
If you like AI-S lenses on cameras that won't meter with them, then you'll also like AF-S lenses on a camera with two command dials shooting in manual exposure mode. It somehow seems more engaging when you're paying attention to both aperture and shutter speed. It takes practice, but it's worth it, IMO.

heartyfisher said:
That E series lens is over 30 years old ! Good old nikon.. My mom used to use that lens! Its one of the lightest 50mm lenses ever.. and you call it heavy? LOL

It's just interesting how it's much heavier than, for example, my Nikon 55-200 VR (which, a novice would assume, since it zooms in and out, would be much heavier but, alas... :-))

NSXType-R said:
Haha, thought you bought the latest version of the lens. I love old manual focus lenses, glad you're enjoying it!

:-) Easily understandable confusion. But no, following the advice of the NR pack, I asked for an old manual focus lens, and I love that I did! Learned quite a lot from using it, compared to just "point and shoot" many times with the AF-S lenses.

DannyP said:
NSX, I stand corrected. I'll still say it feels great and study, metal or plastic.

Jonny: yes, it's a AI-S, series E lens. But I don't mind the "worrying about metering part," since it's all part of the learning how to use a dSLR process.

As for the idea of switching cameras/lenses, I actually got this lens (asked for it as a gift, I should say) with the intent of learning, where it's been VERY useful. Moreover, I for one really do like the swivel LCD. For one, it protects the LCD itself (since you can store it facing the camera when not using it). Also, I do take advantage of the different angles of the LCD for shooting up high or down low.

And, of course, there's the little detail that the camera officially belongs to the company, not me. So I can't really just up and sell it and replace it. :-) I don't mind, however, buying class or equipment for it, since those will work in any Nikon dSLR, so I always have the option of buying one for myself in the near future, and still using all this.

Haha, thought you bought the latest version of the lens. I love old manual focus lenses, glad you're enjoying it!

That E series lens is over 30 years old ! Good old nikon.. My mom used to use that lens! Its one of the lightest 50mm lenses ever.. and you call it heavy? LOL

NSX, I stand corrected. I'll still say it feels great and study, metal or plastic.

Jonny: yes, it's a AI-S, series E lens. But I don't mind the "worrying about metering part," since it's all part of the learning how to use a dSLR process.

As for the idea of switching cameras/lenses, I actually got this lens (asked for it as a gift, I should say) with the intent of learning, where it's been VERY useful. Moreover, I for one really do like the swivel LCD. For one, it protects the LCD itself (since you can store it facing the camera when not using it). Also, I do take advantage of the different angles of the LCD for shooting up high or down low.

And, of course, there's the little detail that the camera officially belongs to the company, not me. So I can't really just up and sell it and replace it. :-) I don't mind, however, buying class or equipment for it, since those will work in any Nikon dSLR, so I always have the option of buying one for myself in the near future, and still using all this.

I think he bought an AI-S version of the 50, NSX. It actually makes some sense because the 50 1.8D won't focus on the D5000 anyway. I still wouldn't have recommended it over the AF (D) version because you've then got metering on top of manual focus to worry about, but I'm glad you've liked it, Danny.

If you really like that focal length, you could save up for the 50 1.4 AF-S. Or, you could also sell your D5000 to get a D90 and a 50 1.8D. The price difference between the 1.8 and 1.4 (~$300) could almost cover the difference in price from selling your D5000 (~$400) and getting a new D90 (~$775). If you like using an AI-S lens on the D5000, I have a feeling that you would fall in love with having two command dials and shooting manual. For me, it's the perfect balance between auto metering (the meter still tells you if it thinks you're underexposing/overexposing) and creative control once you get smarter than your camera. And the LCD screen on the D90/D300s/etc. is a thing of beauty.

Glad you like the lens. One issue though- I believe the 50mm 1.8 has a metal mount but a plastic body.

But only a minor detail. Be sure to post photos!

Hey guys,

Thought I'd post an updated on this. Been playing with the 50mm 1.8 now for a little while, and I absolutely love it. No, there's no zoom, and no, it doesn't autofocus on the D5000, but it does exactly what many of you said: it teaches enthusiasts how to shoot with a dSLR without relying on automatic functions (especially since it only works in Manual - "M" - mode on the D5000.

First, the lens itself is beautiful. Study, great quality, yet tiny in size (albeit heavy, since it's all metal). It's also ridiculously fast!

You really learn the importance of focusing (and what the little green dot on the viewfinder means) and also how to properly use the aperture ring! No, I never knew exactly how to deal with it - bokeh, brightness, I always used to let the camera do it for me... tsk, tsk...

What really impresses me is both the quality of the photos (so sharp and nice, despite not having autofocus!) and, more than that, how well it handles low light situations - even without using the flash! I tend to go to many places and events were using the flash would be detrimental to the occasion (small venue concerts, where you don't want to keep popping a flash at the singer's face every two seconds; or outside at night, where you don't want to keep calling people's attention by using flash all the time). And, even with the flash off, the photos still look amazing with the right apperture/focus/ISO combo (and I don't go with ISO beyond 800 if I can).

That said, here are my latest thoughts on lenses:
- It's fun to play with manual focus, but yes, I do wish SOMETIMES that I had AF in it
- I also want to try the 35mm 1.8 sometimes. It does bother me that the 50mm in a D5000 acts as a 75mm, and not "eye view." But don't think I'll buy another lens just for that, unless I win the (small) lottery
- As for my kit lenses (Nikon 18-55VR and 55-200VR), I love them both. Have taken great, sharp photos with both of them in different situations and occasions. No, they're not nearly as good as the 50mm 1.8 in low light (the 1:1.8 REALLY does help, compared to what, 1:3.5-5.6?) but they do a great job in combo from anything from macro to landscapes to all the way zoomed in. It does annoy me, sometimes, to have to keep switching between them, I'll be honest. I tend to take all kind of shots - closeups and wides alike - all the time, and switching can be a pain. But I've heard the two lenses are better than the Nikon 18-200VR and, plus, I'm not sure I want to spend another $200 replacing lenses that'll ultimately do the same...

I'll garner some good shots and put them online somewhere, to share with you guys soon!
D.

See if you can borrow the lens from the shop bit a few minutes/hours and go around and see how much zoom you get.

there are lots of people that find they don't shoot wider than 100mm, you'll have to find out.

Also there are not too many options for going wide.

because your D5000 does not have a focus motor built-in, you are more limited in your lenses. Your options are the Nikon 10-24, Nikon 12-24, Sigma 10-20 and the tamron 10-24

Both nikons cost about $900-$1100 and the Sigma and Tamron go for 450-550.

I've decided on the Sigma at this point, as its quality is very good at a great price.

Unfortunatly getting hooked on photography means spending some money on lenses.. If you want to go wider than 18-55 then the 18-105 wont hlep at all You will need sonething like the sigma 10-20 for nice wide angle shots. The 105 does help getting more reach and is a nice lens to have. However if you feel you want a lot of reach then you should get the 55-200 instead.

Hi guys I am also new to D 5000 bought recently. I was off to Himachal on a holiday with family and had a great time clicking away however with the 18-55 lens that came as a package, I found two limitations: I could not zoom a distant object very easily and also the wide and beautiful landscapes of Himalaya ranges could be captured only to some limited width... please suggest which other lens should I add?

I am thinking of NIKKOR 55-200mm f/4-5.6G IF-ED VR which is coming for RS 10000-12000 that is roughly my budget.

I also have an offer to exchange my 18-55 lens with a 18-105 lens and the shopkeeper will buy it back for Rs. 5000 and will give me the 18-105 for about Rs. 12000 ( I hope I remember the deal correctly)

Please help

DannyP said:
BTW, I know this is a somewhat old discussion now, but I ended up getting the 50mm 1.8 suggested here as a gift. So I can now play with it for quite a bit, while saving money for a good external flash, for example. Have a concert coming up on Sat., and am very excited about maybe playing with all different lenses during the show!
Thanks again everyone!

Nice!

But you do know that it won't autofocus right?

Great, Danny. Post a couple pictures here if you ever feel like it.

BTW, I know this is a somewhat old discussion now, but I ended up getting the 50mm 1.8 suggested here as a gift. So I can now play with it for quite a bit, while saving money for a good external flash, for example. Have a concert coming up on Sat., and am very excited about maybe playing with all different lenses during the show!
Thanks again everyone!

To start get a manual 50mm 1.8 used... roughly $35 on ebay

Manfrotto 055XPROB + 496RC2 Tripod Kit is a nice choice for 200$.
I would not go for anything cheaper than that.

Tripod WITH ball head seems like a logic combination for me. Can't imagine having a tripod where the camera is static on it, so I completely agree with your friend. And titanium seems the way to go, as all the others I've seen or had in the past (the $50-70 ones) lasted all of a couple shootings.

Your suggestions are great btw, Jonny. I'll definitely keep an eye on these!

And love the "make comment, not purchase" approach! :-)

Yeah, now I think about it $150 might be a stretch. (another save up item ;-)
Maybe something like this:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/168060-REG/Slik_615_900_700DX_Pro_Tripod_Legs.html
and this:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/660321-REG/Manfrotto_496RC2_496RC2_Compact_Ball_Head.html

I have a buddy that bought tripod legs and then complained to his wife that they were basically useless alone until she let him buy a head. I'm not recommending that strategy, though.

edit: I agree with you that this forum is a fun place, Danny. Besides learning a lot from the people here, I think it's actually made my photo spending go down. I can't quite figure that out—maybe helping other people spend money on photo gear substitutes for spending my own?

Haha, well I rather like my $90 ballhead, it does the job. Not that I wouldn't like something better, but my budget is limited this year.

PB - I wouldn't spend less than $150 on a ballhead, not to mention tripod :)

Danny, when it comes to tripods, don't cheap out. I wouldn't spend less than $150 on a tripod.

I'm so happy to be a part of this forum now - you guys are great!

Niko & PB: that's exactly what I needed to hear/figure out - whether it was more worth spending little by little, or saving a bunch and spending it on good glass later. Thanks for the great input!

Jonny: coincidentally, I actually have just ordered a remote. Should be in the mail, on its way over. Glad I'm on the right track on that. Flash is a good idea, but the SB-600 seems to be around $200+, so that'll be in the "save a couple months for that" category. Or go for the SB-400, which seems to be around $120. I can't imagine not swiveling is that big a deal at this point... right?

On tripods, any tips on a good prosumer one? I've tried looking around, but the number of different brands and makes can be quite overwhelming. And I don't want to spend $50 just to see it break on the first try (as my last one did). :-)

Ted: I'll keep the 35/1.8 in my mind. I've heard and read great things about it, and doesn't seem to be too expensive. May be on my short list for when I start buying more lenses.

Adamz: I'll be the first one to say I'd never heard of the Giottos RB, but it looks great!!

Heartyfisher: that is an awesome list, for both equipment and assignments!! I might be having fun with that for a long time. :-)) Thank you so much for that!

And, by the way, I am lucky enough to have Photoshop here, so software is not an issue. I'm a designer who's trying to branch out and improve his photo skills, so software is the one part we're ok so far. :-)

Thanks once more and do keep the suggestions coming; these have been EXTREMELY helpful!!

Hope everyone's having a great weekend!
Danny.

That's a fun list, heartyfisher. I would add to the software part to find free trial versions of software and see what you like to use best. I agree about Paint Shop Pro. It's a great value and many of the photoshop tutorials that you can find online can be done in PSP (or the GIMP) if you know your software well enough to find the commands.

I vote for
1) flash,
1.1) Difusers and bounce stuff, can be made. check out strobist
2) tripod,
3) Raynox DCR250(multi element close up filter),
4) Circular Polarising filter.
5) 35 or 50 1.8 depending on what you find out about your fav focal lengths.
6) Good PC - Play with PP with nice software like the Free GIMP or good value PaintShop Pro Photo. Irfranview is free and versatile and you can get some nice plugin for it.

Fun projects to try
1) Water Drop! We have some threads here on these forums that are great!
2) Insect Macro.
2.1) Flying insects - (hint: use flash and patience)
3) Street Photography.
4) Event photography - :-) hint: will need your F1.8 lenses.
5) Flames and Sparklers - Long exposure.
6) Light Painting. - Hint: tripod.
7) Star trails
8) Studio and models - Hint: Off camera flash.
9) Birds in flight

That should keep you busy for a couple of months..or years !! :-)