62 replies to this topic

[Neo]

I have a couple of SB-800's that I use when I must use flash, but I almost always try to make do with my Nikon 50mm 1.4 first as I hate the 'flash' look.  I do have a couple of Gary Fong domes that are perfect for what you're looking for however:

http://store.garyfonginc.com/licl.html

You'll need either an SB-600 or SB-800 to use it though.  A big difference in the models is how much power they output.  I also use flash off camera for the most part (if it is on camera I ALWAYS use the Gary Fong dome) so the SB-800's allow for wireless triggering.  Nikon just released the new model, SB-900, so you can likely find the older SB-800's for a good buy.

Unfortunately the Nikon D40 isn't going to be as good as the Nikon D300 or D3 in terms of ISO quality else you could probably get away with no flash at all unless it is truly dark.  Having said that, the D40 is much better or as good as some of Nikon's older flagship models like the D100 and D200.

I would suggest picking up a Nikon 50mm 1.8 as you can get a brand new one for under $100 (the 1.4 version costs ~$300 I think).  The 1.4 (I had a 1.8 before) is my favorite lens in my arsenal.  You'll have the lens for a long time if you take care of it, but cameras will come and go.  Your next camera will likely have better focusing capabilities and will allow this lens to shine even more.  For $100 you really can't spend any more wisely.

[InitialD]

Thanks. I think I'll get the 50mm 1.8 lens. I've searched for photos taken with it and I really like the bokeh. I'm going to hold off and get at least a SB-600 and possibly SB-800, but for now very few of my photos I use a flash. The Gary Fong dome is just the kind of diffuser I'd want. I'm happy with the D40 for now, but I'll be wanting to upgrade in a year or two. I'm really liking the new D90. Professionals might not have use for it, but I think recording video would be fun.

[Richlord11]

Definitely I share your view!

Neo, on 16 February 2007 - 09:15 AM, said:

That isn't entirely true.  A large aperture doesn't necessarily correlate into a better lens.  There are some very fine f4 lenses out there like the Nikon 300mm f4 prime.  If you aren't going to be shooting in low light or don't need the DOF of a large aperture then you really aren't doing yourself any favors except for lightening the weight of your wallet.  What I would look for is good glass.  You are right that kit lenses are absolutely terrible.  For the casual shooter they're probably ok, but if you care about color abberations for example, then don't buy cheap glass.  Stay away from cheap alternative brands like Sigma.  You get what you pay for.

In my bag I have all Nikon equipment including some prime lenses which are probably a great way to start out.  You can get a 50mm 1.8 prime from either Canon or Nikon for very cheap and it really pushes your creativity IMO.  Probably not the best lens for skylines obviously, but for shooting details you really can't beat it for the money.  I also own a 17-55mm f2.8 ED IF and a 70-200mm f2.8 ED IF VR and can vouch that both of those lenses are absolutely superb, but even being so my 50mm is my bread and butter.  Not bad for a lens that was 1/16 the cost of my 70-200.

Of course, I may note that I am considering moving to the Canon 5D (from a Nikon D2H and D100) just because of the awesome colors it produces out of the bag.

Perhaps we should start a camera tips and tricks thread for this sort of thing.  I'm sure all of us could learn from one another.