I had been eying this lens ever since it came out over a year ago but it is so popular it is back ordered everywhere and I didn’t feel like waiting in line and over paying (most places sell it $100-$200 over MSRP). I watched the used gear forum at Nikonians until one came up at a price that looked good. Finally saw one that was barely used, shipping included, no tax, 2 free filters and for less then if I had got it at a store. My two big reasons for getting the lens were the extra range 200m vs 70mm and Vibration Reduction (VR). I’ll let the pictures below do most of the explaining.
It’s not a pro lens but it is hard to beat the size and weight, I got it specifically for walking around all day.
Comparison to the 18-70mm kit lens and 50mm f1.8
Zoom extension comparison
Shot on the 605 on the way to get Golden Spoon, eww blurry (VR off, 200mm, 1/20s, f5.7, ISO 1600)
Same shot with VR on, not bad for something shot at 200mm at a low shutter speed in a moving car
100% crop comparison of the license plate, that’s pretty crazy, could be luck but out of 5 shots that was the best “VR off” performer
Comparison between 200mm shots while stationary
Now one thing VR can’t help you with is subject motion as seen here when a shot is taken at a pretty slow shutter speed like 1/10s. Everything else is nice and sharp but movement is bad, but I’m not shooting sports or birds so I’m not too concerned.
Hopefully this gets me motivated to get out and shoot more considering I need to justify my expenditure with the fiance. More to come!
