Somewhat off topic, but you guys started it!
I have the Kenko's as well, and have liked them quite a bit. Before buying I had read criticism that they would let light in at the joints with heavier lens/body combos. Though I only messed around briefly, I didn't see any issue with using my D300 with my Bigma, which is a lot of weight on either side.
Also, I found that I could use thse tubes on both the Sigma HSM lenses and the Nikon AF-S ones, contrary to it saying I couldn't.
Kenko Tubes I have
But on the topic of the zoom lenses...
When I first got my 18-200 (which, granted, is a highly rated lens by many and is very, very useful), I thought it was goddamn amazing. Since I've been experimenting with other lenses, I've really found its pitfalls optically. It's AF is very fast and that's why I used it for my ribbon shot. Other than that, the only thing I think it has going is the huge magnification ratio, which turns out to eventually be a downfall. My ribbon shot SHOULD have been shot with my Tamron 28-75 but the AF, IMO, wasn't fast enough to get what I wanted, even with the D300 uber-AF. The compromises of these sorts of lenses really make me think that they should be passed unless you only intend to own and use one lens. On vacation, backpacking through New Zealand, the 18-200 came into its own, I can't lie. But I look at the photos and think... if only I had used my 85 1.8... or my Tamron 28-75... sharpness and contrast can't be made up for, and that's where those long magnification ratio lenses drag and lenses like the Nikon 85 1.8 and Tamron 28-75 absolutely kill them. Lenses like the 18-200 are good, especially at learning where you really shoot, but once you know where you shoot, you'll see the weaknesses.
Everybody always says... the glass makes the shot... I've learned that now. Saving your pennies for awhile is to your benefit if you know what you'll be using..
Message edited by author 2010-06-01 04:30:49. |
