Zoom lens for NikonD3000

[codecowboy]

Hi,

I was hoping to use a relative's Sigma Zoom lens for an upcoming Tiger Safari with my Nikon D3000. However, its an old lens and when you attach it, you get a message to say that the lens needs to be set to the highest F-stop value (aperture I think?). This is not ideal and I'm concerned this is going to render it pretty useless. As its an older lens, it also doesn't support autofocus or VR.

Can someone recommend a good quality Zoom lens which will work with my Nikon, be suitable for Wildlife photography and won't cost the earth? I'm prepared to pay about 150 pounds.

Many thanks!

Luke.

[Matt]

You're probably best aiming at either Sigma or Tamron, as a Nikon own brand lens will be far more expensive. The next thing you need to look at is how much focal legth you want. There are a fair few lenses that'll go from a reasonably wide angle, such as 28mm, up to 300mm. This will mean you won't have to keep your standard lens with you. An all-in-one lens can compromise on quality somewhat, as the longer focal length will shut out more light, so something along the lines of a 55-200mm option might do the job. Aim for the third party companies and you shoudln't go far wrong. The Sigma 55-200mm can be found for around £140 I think, and Tamron do the same focal length for a bit more. Give them a try and see how you get on with the weight etc., and stick some of your images on the gallery

[codecowboy]

Thanks for your reply. How about the Nikon 55-200mm f/4-5.6 AF-S VR DX NIKKOR ? Seems you can pick that up for around the same money.

[Nigel Atherton]

That would be a better choice than the Sigma if the price is right. It has image stabilisation (VR) for a start.