What lens should I get for a Nikon D40?

Question

I'm going to Greece in September. The Parthenon is half a mile from my hotel. I'm planning on setting up on the rooftop of the hotel to get some great day and night shots. I've been looking at 70mm-300mm as well as 80mm to 500mm. What type of lens should I get for great photographs, taking into consideration the distance and the possibility of low light? Thank you in advance.

Answer 1

The 70-300 mm VR is a good lens for doing what you suggest, but as a travel photographer, I find I use the 12-24 mm much more than longer lenses.

On a recent two month trip I used the following lenses thusly

24-85 mm f/2.8~4 macro ... 85%

12-24 mm f/4 .... 14%

70-300 mm ED ... 1%

As long as you have your camera/lens mounted on a tripod and the Parthenon doesn't move, your night shots should be fine.

Answer 2

Ace's answers are always good.

Make sure you get a lens with the VR (Vibration Reduction)

to help you with "low light".

My personal favorite, is the 18-200 VR

Not cheap, around $600, but it does so much, and does it well.

I like the fact that I don't have to carry around extra lens when I don't want to, and by not switching lens a lot, there is less chance of dust getting on the sensor.

Also, I don't lose shots, changing the  lens, because I have the wrong one on.