Choosing the Right Lens Combo for Your Nikon D5300
The D5300 with 18-55mm 55-200mm VR kit lens or 18-140mm VR kit lens: Which is better?
When I first started with my Nikon D100, my choice was the Nikon 18–135mm lens. In my early days, I found that this lens allowed me to shoot a wide range of subjects in good light. It was convenient and didn't require me to change lenses frequently. However, as I delved deeper into photography, I started to realize that good light conditions were critical for focusing and capturing quality images with any lens.
Learning the Ropes of Photography
The 18–135mm lens, despite its convenience, did not meet my expectations of capturing detailed images. I needed more control over my photographs, which led me to acquire additional lenses such as the 50mm 1.8 and 90mm 2.8. This process allowed me to compare the details and see the significant differences in quality compared to the 18–135mm.
The Damage 18-135mm
Accidentally damaging the 18–135mm lens presented an opportunity to explore a two-lens approach: the 18–55 and 55–200mm. While carrying two lenses might seem cumbersome at first, the level of detail and image quality was noticeably superior to the 18–135mm. The 55–200mm in particular, with its longer reach, provided excellent results for outdoor photography, while the 18–55 was ideal for indoor shots and group photos.
Which Lens Combination is Best?
When it comes to choosing between the 18–55mm with 55–200mm VR and the 18–140mm VR kit, it's important to consider several factors: convenience, weight, and the specific photography needs of the user.
Convenience
Unless you're covering an event where your subject is moving great distances, carrying two lenses is not necessary. However, if you plan on using a prime lens in low light conditions, it's a good practice to be comfortable swapping lenses, as this will enhance your versatility.
Weight
The 18–55mm is very light and unobtrusive, making it perfect for spontaneous shots. On the other hand, the 18-140mm is not as light and may be more cumbersome for everyday use. Your camera will be lighter with either the 18-55 or 18-140mm compared to the 18-140mm 100% of the time.
Light and Reach
The 55–200mm has a longer reach, which is beneficial for outdoor photography where you might be further from your subject. Additionally, the 55–200mm has a larger aperture (55-200mm f/5.6 compared to 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6), meaning it can capture more light, especially in low light conditions.
Real-World Examples
In my experience, the 55–200mm has provided better image quality and detail for my photography style. However, it’s important to note that the 18–55mm is still exceptionally good for everyday use and convenience.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the choice between the 18-55mm 55-200mm VR and 18-140mm VR kit depends on your photography needs and budget. If you find yourself using the 18-55mm more, you can always upgrade to the 55-200mm later. The key is to choose a combination that allows you to be versatile and capture high-quality images.
Remember, it's crucial to enjoy your photography journey and to continually explore new lenses and techniques. Whether you choose the 18-55mm with 55-200mm VR or the 18-140mm VR, the most important thing is to get out there and capture your world.