Nikon VR lens -- worth it for sports?

Question

I do sports (action) photography with a Nikon D80 (thinking of upgrading to the D300 btw) ... I want to get a faster lens and am considering the Nikon 70-200mm f2.8 VR or the 80-200mm f2.8 (without VR).

Given that the new vibration-reduction model costs about twice as much (around $1,700, I think, versus $900) ... would it be worth getting for my purposes (handheld sports photography)?

Really, my question is: Since I always use fast shutter speeds (always faster than 1/200, usually more like 1/1000 or more) is there any advantage to VR, or is the fast shutter speed itself enough to essentially eliminate the effects of camera shake?

Appreciate any input on this...

Answer 1

If you are only using this lens for sport photography and absolutely nothing else, and you are constantly using that very fast shutter speed, then the VR is not really going to be much of an advantage for you.

If, however, you plan to use the lens for things other than just sport photography, perhaps for portraits or scenic photography, the VR would come in handy especially for hand-holding some longer-exposure shots.

Hope that helps you  out some :)

Answer 2

HI....  If you do sports photography for a hobby,  I would say not to extend yourself on a lens that is twice as much.  However,  if sports photography is your profession,  you should invest in the better technology...  As it is said,  your equipment  is your tools.  The better the equipment,  the better the results will be.  Better results=more money and and a greater reputation.  Besides that,   if you are using the lens for your work, even if it is freelance.   it is a legitimate tax deduction.    Also, keep in mind,  better lenses actually retain their value  better because photographers are always looking for  that same model.    Cameras come and go, but lenses are the keys to beautiful images.   Hope that helped give you something else to consider.    I would like to have that new lens, myself.   :))

Answer 3

yur always there for me...so i guess i could try and help...idk...im not really into photography lol but i think u should get the VR cuz it sounds kewl

good luck

{cassie j}

Answer 4

You have to remember that VR can't stop the blur of your subject's motion, and this will definitely be important in sports. While it is handy, I doubt that it is worth the extra $800 here.

It might be a bit more cumbersome, but why not get a good monopod? You'll have better results anyways, and that will save you a ton of money.