Nikkor 18-200mm VR lens

[troush]

Okay,

My WONDERFUL husband has offered to get me this lens for my D50 for my Birthday or Anniversary (Sept. or Aug). I know the waiting list is long. I also know some of you here have this lens. Where did you order it and what was your experience?

I saw Adorama has it for $800 - but I had a bad experience ordering from them last time. Most places (B&H Photo or Ritz) it is around $750, but on back order or out of stock.

Any tips greatly appreciated. (I did poke around Nikonians but I don't have time to read the tons of messages.)

Thanks,
Trish

[Chuck S.]

Trish, I see that it's out of stock at amazon.com, too. Must be a very popular item right now. Have you talked to anyone at B&H to see when it might be coming back in stock? There are live bodies at that store...

Chuck

[kimh]

Kimi and I ordered ours from Ritz camera on line. The lens took less than 2 months to get here which suprised the employees of our local stores. Their wait is about 6-7 months I think one guy said. It was $750.00. Have not played around with it much but think I'm going to love it.
I liked that I rec'd an E-mail each week from Ritz that my order was still okay.
Kimh

[kimh]

When I was shopping for mine, B&H was not even taking orders for it. There has been a wait for it since it came out in fall of '05.
Kimh

[TonyW]

Funnily enough I was in the local Nikon dealer this afternoon buying more goodies and he said he could get me one in 2-4 weeks for the equivalent of US$760. Haven't put it to the test but I've had good luck with other things there (I was picking up a remote control which is also in short supply but he got me one in a week). So you might want to check around a bit more (or maybe Canada is getting preferred treatment :D )

Tony

[Winsunn]

I bought this lens for my Nikon D50 two months ago. I went to a local Nikon store and they put my name on a waiting list. The cost was $750.00, and it took about three weeks for the lens to arrive. I also bought a $30.00 lens protector.

The lens is fantastic. Excellent quality, crystal clear pictures, and no more having the wrong lens on the camera for the required shot. Very much worth the wait and the money.

[kimi_boo]

I have to agree... I am loving the lens. :D

I didn't think a 2 month wait from Ritz was that bad. ;)

[MarieBoyer]

The quality is everything you have heard and more! great lens. I got on a list at Roberts Camera and bought it for aound $750 (?) My wait was several months.

Trish: I see them on my trusty Nikon Cafe site for sale quite regularly. There is one right now I believe (but $825). Yesterday one sold for $725. If you want me to keep an eye out, I will. It is just that they go very quickly! (I have bought many used lenses on the Cafe from trusty, longtimers, and it has always worked out. I only buy from those whose names I know from the forum.)

[Chuck S.]

What an incredible range for a lens! Canon doesn't have one like that; the closest in range is a 28-300, but it's nearly $2000 US.

Almost enough to give one Nikon envy....

:(

Chuck

[TonyW]

Actually the one I've been looking at is the 70-300mm 4.5-5.6 VR as I have the 18-70 range already covered. That sells for about $500. Anyone tried one? - for the times I want a long telephoto the extra 100mm and the wider aperture would be nice to have.

Tony

[troush]

Chuck,

It's called NAS - Nikon Acquistion Syndrome. I have it bad... Lets see the Lens ($750), the SB-600 Speed Light (around $200), a real tripod (I got a cheap one a long time ago with my camcorder - it's not real sturdy, although it has survived the kids!) - I'm not sure how much that will cost me... I've checked Craigslist for the Denver area. Don't know if there is a Nikon dealer here. I'll have to check.

Thanks for your answers everyone.

-Trish

[Chuck S.]

Trish, have you tried

Camera Trader (http://www.thecameratrader.com/nikon03.htm)

?

Chuck

[virgo1]

Trish,
I am going through the same as you. The D50 needs care and "feeding". I have also been looking at the longer lens. The local camera store said they had ordered more, so I asked them to hold one.
Eva;)

[TonyW]

I have also been looking at the longer lens.

How about one of these babies - might also need a truck to carry it around :D :

http://www.dpreview.com/news/0610/06100101zeiss1700f4.asp

Tony

[LeeOtsubo]

How about one of these babies - might also need a truck to carry it around :D :

http://www.dpreview.com/news/0610/06100101zeiss1700f4.asp

Tony

That's why I prefer one of these (http://dvinfo.net/canon/images/images17.php) with a 1.4TC. It's much easier to handhold. :D

[Roger87]

I assume you are all talking about the AFS-Nikkor 18-200 mm f/3.5-5.6 VR G ED DX lens here. There is a good review of this lens (and many others) at Bjorn Rorslett's website. Here's the link to the review of this particular lens.

http://www.naturfotograf.com/lens_zoom_02.html#AFS18-200VR

I currently have the AFS-Nikkor 17-55 mm f/2.8 G DX ED-IF lens (my favorite) a cheaper AF-Nikkor 75-300 mm f/4.5-5.6 ED that I got when I first got the camera (D70) and AF Micro-Nikkor 60 mm f/2.8. I was thinking of getting the AFS 70-200 mm f/2.8 G ED-IF VR as this a very fast lens with superior optics but it's quite pricey and big. I might look at this 18-200mm once I read some more reviews and see more pictures. :)

[kimh]

Here are a couple pic's from my first try w/the lens. Taken this afternoon. None retouched in PS or Elements.
Kimh
http://www.pixentral.com/show.php?picture=1jwPOzep8LuhiBRzXXgwV2n8XH40

http://www.pixentral.com/show.php?picture=1RHUTUMHXPy2asmKTavPVs2bgdBb4Y1

http://www.pixentral.com/show.php?picture=1Su7zT89c8zhcX7jzejKUypFzWoEF

http://www.pixentral.com/show.php?picture=1HIsDnnb7YsOdqGc1f9lQwIWSI5K4C

[kimh]

Forgot to add that these were taken from a moving boat. It's a start.
Kimh

[kimi_boo]

Kim... ya did good girl. :D

I would crop the turtle and I think the gator looks like he is smiling. :eek:

[kimh]

I totally agree but I wanted to show the photos just out of the camera. The eagle could definately be cleaned up too. I was pretty much in "A" priority. My first time out w/the lens. Feel I could have gotten some great shots if I had some action (birds flying) shots in shutter priority but will know for next time.
Kimh

[MarieBoyer]

Forgot to add that these were taken from a moving boat. It's a start.
Kimh

Kim:
These are great! Do you live near the Everglades or something? Talk about some good subjects for an afternoon shoot! I especially like the first one, but they are all nice.

Hey, did you know that the VR setting called "active" is for when you are on a moving boat (or on a moving anything)? I confess someone shared that with me; I have not confirmed it in the lens manual.

[kimh]

Thanks for the compliments! I live on a canal off the St. Johns river. Have only in the last 5 years taken advantage of the river as my children are older now. Have just a little 16 1/2 foot boat but it is very handy to head out on the river in no time.
I am a fanatic about reading manuals so did put the lens setting on 'active' in the boat. Actually the first picture (that you like) was just coming out of my canal and I forgot to even turn on the VR.
Thanks,
Kimh

[virgo1]

Kim,
Great shots. I'm excited now, I got the other VR (70-300) lens Saturday. The Camera Company had one left. Haven't had a chance to try it out yet thanks to freezing rain mixed with snow.
Eva;)

[TonyW]

Eva: Let me know how it works - I've got to wait a week for mine :( , And yes - we have your weather - not nice outside....

Tony

[mel]

Great photos Kim :)

[troush]

Okay, I went with Ritz Camera today. I called B&H and they said they won't take orders 'cause Nikon won't tell them when and how many they're shipping. I did a couple of searches (Yahoo, and Google), and the lens is available at Best Buy and a couple of other places, but they want close to $1000 for it. Adorama wants $850, but I think they're back ordered too. I figured $750, and free shipping and no taxes was good enough for me. Now I wait... and wait... Perhaps it won't be too long.

Thanks everyone. Can't wait to get this lens. Now, I need a rocket blower to get that speck off my sensor that is showing up in all my pictures.

-Trish

[MarieBoyer]

Trish:
The wait is well worth it. I have not taken this lens off my camera. I sold one of my beloved lenses right after I got the 18-200 because it was clear that this one was going to spend almost 100% of the time on my camera.

The range is incredible. The image quality is outstanding!

[kimi_boo]

It took about 2 months for mine to come in from Ritz. I love it.. well worth the wait. :D

[troush]

Marie and Kimi,

Now I'm really excited about getting this lens. I thought about getting the 50mm f1.8 lens just to tide me through ;) , but I think I'll just wait. So this year I get the lens, maybe next year the speedlight :) .

-Trish

[TonyW]

Trish: The 50mm 1.8 is a must have too I'm afraid :) . Absolutely perfect for indoor shots in natural light. Get a cheap set of 50mm close up diopters to go with it and you have a perfectly good macro set up too. That 50mm is an amazing lens and can be got for under $100

Tony

[kimi_boo]

I hate to say it but Tony is absolutely correct. It is a must buy. :p
(it's a pain to spend more money)I got tired of having a body without a lens and went out and bought the 50. Just fabulous!

[Chuck S.]

Want to bet that someone in the production and/or marketing department of Nikon is getting chewed out for having set too low a selling price on the 18-200?? They'll probably come out with a "new and improved" model and increase the suggested selling price to $999...

In the meantime, I hope Canon is looking at this lens and devising a plan to offer an equivalent. The D-80 with 18-200 must be Canon's worst nightmare...

Chuck

[MarieBoyer]

Trish: The 50mm 1.8 is a must have too I'm afraid :) . Absolutely perfect for indoor shots in natural light. Get a cheap set of 50mm close up diopters to go with it and you have a perfectly good macro set up too. That 50mm is an amazing lens and can be got for under $100

Tony

Ditto Tony's comments!!! You will love the 50 f/1.8 for non-flash photography! He is correct about the cost too.

[Roger87]

Hi Folks,

Is this the lens (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=12041&A=details&Q=&sku=408518&is=GREY&addedTroughType=categoryNavigation)everyone here is talking about? Inquiring minds want to know. :)


http://www.bhphotovideo.com/images/largeimages/408518.jpg

[MarieBoyer]

That sure looks like it Roger. Nikkor 18-200 VRII

[troush]

That's the one Roger... Almost every review I've read says that's the lens.

I'll get the 50mm some other year... I'm a SAHM, and we have a single income, 3 kids (lot's different than when we were DINKs (double income, no kids)), and I homeschool (about $600 a year for curriculum). And, we're going to do some improvements to the house this year, etc. So, I gotta pick and choose. When the hubby offers the big lens, I don't ask for the little one...

-Trish

[Roger87]

Trish: The 50mm 1.8 is a must have too I'm afraid :) . Absolutely perfect for indoor shots in natural light. Get a cheap set of 50mm close up diopters to go with it and you have a perfectly good macro set up too. That 50mm is an amazing lens and can be got for under $100. Tony


Tony - I found this lens (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=Search&A=details&Q=&sku=247091&is=USA&addedTroughType=search)at B & H Photo for $114.95. I'm going to pick this up (and maybe the 18-200) with my next bonus. Thanks for the great suggestion! :)

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/images/largeimages/247091.jpg

[kimi_boo]

Roger, search around. You can probably find it for less. I got mine at our local camera store for less than that just a few months ago. I also got the last one he had at the time. :D

I have to admit.. I am so in love with my 18-200 I haven't had the 50 on much anymore.

[troush]

Yeah, I've seen the 50mm "Used, but in excellent condition" for $65 to $75 on the web sites for the camera stores in the Denver area, so you might want to shop around.

-Trish

[TonyW]

Have to say I'm impressed with those VR lenses - I got the 70-300 and had it out today (got fed up waiting for the snow to stop so decided a few snow flakes wouldn't hurt). Took this at 300mm and 1/200th sec - would have had trouble without the VR - my hands were shaking from the cold (and so probably was the goose :) )

http://www.pixentral.com/hosted/1xcxER28muwE2FmiKJIkiOTeP7NgfP_thumb.jpg (http://www.pixentral.com/show.php?picture=1xcxER28muwE2FmiKJIkiOTeP7NgfP)

Tony

[kimi_boo]

You have to think we are pretty crazy people when we want to take pictures so badly that we stand freezing in the cold. :eek:
Tony, so glad you got your lens. :D I am having the hardest time being stuck in this house for the winter. I am registered for a photo class in March. It should be nice by then. Camera question... Do you have yours set to vivid?

Edit: I forgot... Great Photo!!

[TonyW]

Kimi: I don't use Vivid as it does other stuff that I didn't like so much so I'm using custom settings with enhanced saturation and sRGB IIIa which is a lot of what Vivid includes I think. Still playing around and will probably change again. I got Thom Hogan's e-book which is excellent although you have to like reading manuals - it runs to over 700 pages but does tell you everything you'd ever want to know and a lot more besides. Problem is remembering half the stuff I'm reading and then remembering to actually do it - got half way home and suddenly thought "did I remember to turn on VR?". So many things to tweak - there is something to be said for P&S's :)

I think I could take winter in Louisiana - back in my working days I used to get down to Baton Rouge about now for a conference every year and it was a welcome relief - couldn't understand why the locals said it was cold - felt like tropics to me :D BTW that pic was taken at about 20°F - bet it's warmer than that down there.

Tony

[kimi_boo]

I hate reading manuals. That's why I don't do well with PSE books.
Let me know when you figure out the best setting and I will try yours.;)
It's true our temp today was about 54. But it has been raining for over a month. yuk!

[troush]

Kimi,

We've had snow on the ground for over 42 days (not sure if it is 43 or 44 days)! And COLD this year. And, it started snowing at about 3 o'clock this afternoon. Tomorrow's high: 8 F, if we're lucky.

-Trish

[Roger87]

Roger, search around. You can probably find it for less. I got mine at our local camera store for less than that just a few months ago. I also got the last one he had at the time. :D

I have to admit.. I am so in love with my 18-200 I haven't had the 50 on much anymore.

Kimi - Thanks. I actually (definately getting old here :rolleyes:) already own this lens. I want to try shooting with this lens at low light, no flash at f1.8 and see what kind of images I get. On another note, I wonder how long it will be before B & H Photo gets more of the 18-200mm lens in? :confused:

[Roger87]

I got Thom Hogan's e-book which is excellent although you have to like reading manuals - it runs to over 700 pages but does tell you everything you'd ever want to know and a lot more besides.

Tony - What book is this and where can I see more about it? Let me know and thanks. :)

[TonyW]

Roger: You can order it here:

http://www.bythom.com/d80guide.htm

You can read reviews over on the nikonian.org D80 forum

If you have a D80 I'd almost say this was a must have. Explains absolutely everything you'd ever want to know (Check out the table of contents). Only downside is that it's an e-book but using Adobe Reader 8's booklet printing feature I was able to print off the sections I want to study in detail quite easily at 4 pages per sheet double-sided.

Tony

[MarieBoyer]

Just saw this but price is high:
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?categoryid=pcmcat78100050023&id=1134697746225&skuid=7642544&type=product&DCMP=KNC-TLC&ref=25&loc=PGR

[troush]

Thanks Marie. That's lower than the last time I saw it there. But, for $150 savings, I think I'll wait ;)

-Trish

[Roger87]

Roger: You can order it here:

http://www.bythom.com/d80guide.htm

You can read reviews over on the nikonian.org D80 forum

If you have a D80 I'd almost say this was a must have. Explains absolutely everything you'd ever want to know (Check out the table of contents). Only downside is that it's an e-book but using Adobe Reader 8's booklet printing feature I was able to print off the sections I want to study in detail quite easily at 4 pages per sheet double-sided.

Tony

Tony - Thanks. I have a D70 (wish I had a D80) and will check out his stuff. :)

[Tracy Lee]

I can't believe that I almost missed this thread!

I'm shooting with the D50, and I just got the Nikon VR 18-200 lens in December. I ordered it in October, and it took about 7 weeks to get here - too bad that I flew out on vacation a few days before it came in:eek:

I'm in Japan and that lens could have been had on the Japan Yahoo Auction (like E-Bay) for 95, 000 yen, no waiting. Well - I ordered from my local camera shop simply because I walked in for a whole other thing and got great (free) service. I was also quoted a mere 80,000 yen for the lens, and didn't mind the wait.

I've been shooting my heart out with it and couldn't be happier - no more stopping, trying to quickly change lenses to zoom in enough to get "the perfect shot"...

Extra lucky for me - as the lens came in when I was out of town, my BF picked it up for me, and considered it an Xmas gift! Sweeeet!!

[kimh]

Tracy, nice gift:D I tried to slip mine in under the radar but it didn't work, I talked about it too much.
How are you doing w/flash photos w/that lens? What settings are you using?
Thanks,
Kimh

[Tracy Lee]

Hi, Kimh.

It's great to share experiences with this lens - I love it!

I do shoot with a flash; I usually use the SB-600, but have also used the built-in flash. Both flashes are great - except when shooting too wide-angle; 18 is too wide and I get a huge dark semi-circular shadow in the bottom half of my images. But otherwise great.

I usually shoot in manual mode, with the metering set to either matrix or spot, depending on my shot.

Really, though, I'm still learning a lot about my camera and equipment, and still learning about photography...let the fun continue:D

[kimh]

Thanks Tracy....me too!
Kimh

[TonyW]

Tracy: I haven't tried it yet (another thing on my long list of things to try :) ) but if you have the SB600 I think you can use it off camera and fire it remotely (even with the on-board one down) - that's what that plastic stand that came in the box is for). That would get rid of the black shadow. Indoors I just fire the flash at the ceiling and that gets rid of it too.

Tony

[Byron Gale]

FWIW, a nearby camera store got six of these lenses in earlier this week. I do not know if they had a waiting list for some of them, but I just walked in and bought one yesterday afternoon. They still had two left.

(I got a D80 body to go along with it, too... :D )

Like others here, I had not found any e-tailers with the lens in stock (unless you wanted to buy it with a D200), so was shocked that they just had them just sitting on the shelf, waiting for the next person (me) to wander in off the street and claim one.

I almost didn't check with this store, because I had presumed they would charge a premium over on-line prices. The D80 body was exactly the same as on-line merchants, but the 18-200 VR was actually LESS!! Of course, the sales tax ate up that savings, but I walked out with it in my hot little hands, and have the gratification of keeping the purchase local.

Now I've got some work/fun ahead of me learning how to drive this thing!

[mrod]

Hey, congrats, Byron! Glad you made your decision.

My brother lives in Northern CA (Palo Alto). Maybe I should give him a call...

Naw...I'm still saving...:D

Mike

[TonyW]

Byron: Good choice and does show the benefit of your local camera store. That's where I always go and it does have its advantages - I'm happy to pay a little more (although like you I didn't) and get the extra service that comes with it (sensor cleaning for example when I need it). Have fun learning to drive it - it's a great camera and those VR lenses are remarkable (I have the 70-300). Mind you, start saving those pennies, there's lots of other stuff you'll be wanting to have pretty soon :)

Tony

[mrod]

Mind you, start saving those pennies, there's lots of other stuff you'll be wanting to have pretty soon :)

Tony

[groan]. How many jobs do you guys have, anyway? ;)

Mike

[Byron Gale]

How many jobs do you guys have, anyway...Just the one... but it looks like I'll need to keep it for a LONG time!!

[kimi_boo]

:D Congrats Byron! Another coming over to the dark side. I am still pretty lost so if you come across something we should know... please post it. Looking forward to seeing some of your pics. :D

Hubby still does not know what I paid. I will have to give him the receipts for our taxes. :eek: At least I get to claim all of my goodies for work.

[Byron Gale]

Thanks, Kimi!

I haven't used a SLR for 20 years, so I have a lot of remembering to do, as well as learning the specifics of this model.

If I had brought this home without my wife knowing (and accepting) in advance the general cost, you would have been able to hear the "bonk" all the way from California!! :p

In addition to the body and the zoom, I picked up the 50mm 1.8, a UV filter for each lens, the wireless remote (cheapest Nikon thing in the store!) and a small case.

Too bad I have to work to pay for it, or I would just go play with it... :rolleyes:

Byron

[epaul6]

Mine's on order from Adorama since 1-22-2007. B&H would not even take my order because they could not give an estimate on the arrival date and would have to charge my credit card as of purchase date -ah no thanks. My Niece has one on her D200 and loves it. Mine will go on my trusty D70 and replace my 24-120 VR which I like but would like the extra stretch and reach.

[kimi_boo]

Byron.. I have the 50 mm also, and of course the UV filters. :)
for now I am on hold. Won't buy anything else until after I take my class in March.

[TonyW]

Kimi: You have to have that wireless remote control. It's a bargain (relatively speaking) and I do find it very useful (although I did see over on Nikonians that you can use a TV remote :eek: )

Tony

[Byron Gale]

Kimi,

The only "for sure" acquisition I'm planning, in the near term, is a Speedlight. And maybe an extension tube. And a spare battery.

I'd better not think about it too much right now or I'll be back over at the camera store this evening!! :D

Byron

[Byron Gale]

...you can use a TV remote...Tony,

That's good to know in a pinch! Do you recall if it was a specific make of TV? I just tried a Sony without success.

Byron

[TonyW]

Byron: I think it has to be one of those universal ones that you can program (or get it to learn) - I recall the code was 1011 but I'd have to look it up to see if I was right.

Tony

[Byron Gale]

Tony,

Don't bother looking it up on my account!

Byron

[troush]

Bryon,

Congrats on the new camera and lens. Mine will come eventually. Don't have time to go visit camera shops these days, and the two I e-mailed about the lens didn't respond.

I get an e-mail from Ritz about every 3 days saying they haven't forgotten, just that the manufacturer hasn't delivered yet. And, at least they won't charge the card until it ships.

-Trish

[Byron Gale]

Trish,

I had prepared myself for the long wait from Ritz, too... Their price seems fair, and no shipping/tax is attractive. It was simply an unexpected bonus to find the lens in stock locally.

Byron

[troush]

Byron,

You said you picked up a D80. Didn't know if you knew about these tutorials:

http://www.nikondigitutor.com/eng/d80/index.shtml

Walks you through just about every setting on the camera.

For those of you with a D50:

http://www.nikondigitutor.com/eng/d50/index.shtml

I enjoyed them.

-Trish

[TonyW]

I hadn't really tested to see if VR actually works (with the 70-300mm VR) - I just assumed it did but took a couple of pictures today hand held with VR on and off - max telephoto, from 20 feet away and blown up to twice life size - (the thumbnail below is approx life size). Both taken at 1/50th sec, f5.6, ISO 1600 (natural light indoors). Shot RAW, same adjustments with both, used Neat Image for high ISO noise reduction (rather than in camera). I was quite impressed with how much camera shake it got rid of (and I thought I had a pretty steady hand :) )

http://www.pixentral.com/hosted/1ofEjU2ZT8uJgzPjOa2YM9db613VFQ0_thumb.jpg (http://www.pixentral.com/show.php?picture=1ofEjU2ZT8uJgzPjOa2YM9db613VFQ0)

Tony

[kimi_boo]

Tony.. WOW!!
I swear my pictures have gone from bad to worse! :eek:

[chas3stix]

Kim,
Guess I'm coming in late for this thread..... Just how have your photos gone from bad to worse? Maybe I can help.
Chas

[Byron Gale]

Byron...
http://www.nikondigitutor.com/eng/d80/index.shtml
...Trish,

Those are a fantastic resource... thanks!!

Byron

[troush]

I swear my pictures have gone from bad to worse! :eek:

Kimi,

I've had that happen... I figured out I had to slow down, re-read my notes about exposure, and just mostly slow down. (Tough with 3 little ones).

Take a deep breath, and start over.

-Trish

[Jackie]

Trish -
Thanks for sharing the information on the D80 site - we just purchased the
D80 this week so I anxious to get some time to thoroughly check out the site.
Jackie

[kimh]

Byron-Congratulations on your purchase, do share your photos.
Trish, I was pleased w/my experience w/Ritz. I did appreciate the fact that they let me know each week that they did not forget about me.
Kimi-what kind of class are you taking? I can't really find much around here. I too am trying to get used to the lens.
Have a lot on my wish list but NO spending for me for a while. Wish I did not let it slip how much $$$ I spent on my camera and lens to husband as he is sending more of our bills my way:twisted: Would love a flash and remote.
Kimh

[kimi_boo]

I found a site that had recommendations for setting. (with directions)
So of course thinking they knew more than me I changed them. After that I found my quality looked bad. I feel like I have a lot of noise even on a low ISO. Of course I don't know how to change it back and I am not even sure of exactly what I changed. :mad:
If I use my reset will everything go back to my factory setting? And I have looked everywhere and can't find my manual. I was dragging that thing all over. So how do I handle the reset? Please help...

Kim, I am registered for a Digital Camera Class in March that only lets in 12 students. But I have not received confirmation that I am one of them. So here I sit with my fingers crossed.

[TonyW]

Kimi: There are two resets but if you want to set all Custom Setting back to the default then go into Custom Settings and the first option is Reset. You can get the manual on-line if you get stuck (and I know what you mean, I've misplaced mine a few times)

Tony

Edit: User manual is here (http://support.nikontech.com/cgi-bin/nikonusa.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.php?p_faqid=14051&p_created=1155304597&p_sid=qYFJblni&p_accessibility=0&p_lva=61&p_sp=cF9zcmNoPTEmcF9zb3J0X2J5PSZwX2dyaWRzb3J0PSZwX 3Jvd19jbnQ9NDI4JnBfcHJvZHM9MCZwX2NhdHM9MCZwX3B2PSZ wX2N2PSZwX3NlYXJjaF90eXBlPWFuc3dlcnMuc2VhcmNoX25sJ nBfcGFnZT0xJnBfc2VhcmNoX3RleHQ9ZDgwIG1hbnVhbA**&p_li=&p_topview=1) (you need to register to get the printable version)

[kimi_boo]

Thanks Tony... I did the reset. It still shows that I am set to fine, so it must not reset everything. I need to write down what I change so I can change it back. Lesson learned. :o

[kerriann85]

Ah yes....nothing like that NAS setting in to follow the new camera! (Nikon Acquisition Syndrome for those that don't know)

I'm still trying to convince myself I need that VR lens to go with the D80.
Maybe this summer when I'm out shooting more.....

And for what it's worth, all you with spouses, usually it's easier to beg forgiveness than to ask permission! :D

[kimi_boo]

And for what it's worth, all you with spouses, usually it's easier to beg forgiveness than to ask permission! :D

yep... I'm counting on that. :D

[Byron Gale]

...it's easier to beg forgiveness than to ask permission!......maybe the first dozen times, or so... but she caught on, eventually. :twisted:

[Roger87]

FWIW, a nearby camera store got six of these lenses in earlier this week. I do not know if they had a waiting list for some of them, but I just walked in and bought one yesterday afternoon. They still had two left.

Byron - Was that a camera chain (like Ritz) that you got your lens at? I can't find this lens online and want to try the local chains. Thanks. :)

[Byron Gale]

Roger,

To my knowledge, it is a single-store "empire"... Gluskin's in Stockton.

Byron

[dalesax]

I'd also like to recommend Ken Rockwell's D80 manual--he's got a great site!

http://www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/d80/users-guide/index.htm

-Dale

Byron,

You said you picked up a D80. Didn't know if you knew about these tutorials:

http://www.nikondigitutor.com/eng/d80/index.shtml

Walks you through just about every setting on the camera.

For those of you with a D50:

http://www.nikondigitutor.com/eng/d50/index.shtml

I enjoyed them.

-Trish

[Byron Gale]

...Ken Rockwell's D80 manual... http://www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/d80/users-guide/index.htm (http://www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/d80/users-guide/index.htm)...Dale,

Thank you for the link!!

Byron

[Roger87]

Roger,

To my knowledge, it is a single-store "empire"... Gluskin's in Stockton.

Byron

Byron - Thanks so much for letting me know. I wish we had one out here as I really want to get this lens. :(

[kimh]

Roger, as Kimi and I said. The wait through Ritz (on line) for both of us was not bad at about 2 mos. The local Ritz store said the wait was much longer so we were thrilled. I liked that they kept me updated every week via E-mail. You can find the lens available but will pay a couple 100 $$ more.
Kimh

[troush]

I went into my local Wolf Camera this weekend (they're owned by Ritz, I think) and they said they had a 3 month wait. But, it is about end of quarter for Nikon, so they might get another shipment out end of Feb/first of March. But, he said he had 6 people on his waiting list. Best Buy online has them, but at $950 vs. $750, I can wait.

-Trish

[Roger87]

I sent the following email to B&H last night. :mad:

I have been trying for months to obtain this lens through your website. I signed up for the email notification for this lens when it comes in stock and have yet to receive one. I logged in yesterday (3/23/07) at 1:00 PM and the lens was not in stock. I logged in this morning (3/24/07) at 8:00 AM and it was in stock but you were closed until 8:30 PM. I added the lens to my cart and logged into my account at 8:15 PM. As soon as 8:30 PM came and the checkout button was available (8:31), I proceeded through checkout in less than 1 minute. When I placed the order (final step) I was told the item was not in stock anymore. How many lens were in stock,! 1? This is more than a little frustrating. How can I have something in my cart, proceed to checkout and then the item is not available. Your system should not allow you to put something in your cart and proceed to checkout if you don't have it in stock anymore! I want to get this lens through you, as I am a very loyal customer and recommend you to many people. Short of being online 24 hours a day, what can I do to get this lens when it comes in stock again? Please advise, thanks.No reply so far. I have it on order through Ritz Camera (4 weeks now) and have just about given up on ever getting it unless I buy one on eBay for $900! Any recommendations on another Nikkor or Sigma lens that is comparable? :( (sorry for the rant)

[taxman3043]

Roger: Don't dispair. I had the same proble - got mine over 6 months ago - love it.
Do the following in this order: Go to:
ben'sbargains
Adorama
Beach Camera
Best Buy
Circut City
J & R
Do your search for the lens - be certain it has a U.S.A. warranty.
When I did my search I was able to find it at Best Buy - I ordered and received in 5 days. When I went on their Web Site a half hour later no more in stock.
Note: I did the same for the Nikor 105mm VRII and found it at Beach - great experience - however $50 more than B & H. I to am a long time customer of there's but they don't cater to us long time customers. Good luck - let me know how you make out.

[kimh]

I was very happy with Ritz. Less than 2 mo. wait. They updated me every week via E-mail and was notified when the lens was shipped.
Good luck.
Kimh

[Roger87]

I was very happy with Ritz. Less than 2 mo. wait. They updated me every week via E-mail and was notified when the lens was shipped.
Good luck.
Kimh

Kim - I have been getting email from Ritz weekly (unlike B&H) telling me my order is still in the que. I hope I get it within the next 5 weeks as I'm going to Florida for the Flower Festival at Epcot and only want to bring 1 lens with me. Here's hoping (big huge sigh). :(

[kimi_boo]

Roger, don't give up! It is so worth the wait.

a couple I took today...

http://www.pixentral.com/show.php?picture=1zyVQ454tNl7uvYkvrPeelBHQ60X1

http://www.pixentral.com/show.php?picture=1N1glu29vt9UuxZVMhCfv07c5jsDN1

[n692bc]

Kimi

Loved those pictures, especially the flower with the bee. Really great:) Someday my D80 will get the lense, but first it wants a strobe, so whats an owner to do?

[Roger87]

Roger, don't give up! It is so worth the wait.

a couple I took today...

http://www.pixentral.com/show.php?picture=1zyVQ454tNl7uvYkvrPeelBHQ60X1

http://www.pixentral.com/show.php?picture=1N1glu29vt9UuxZVMhCfv07c5jsDN1


Kimi - You're killing me over here. :D

[kimi_boo]

Roger it only took Kimh and I two months to get ours from Ritz.
I just love it!
It is like it was made for the camera. ;) :D

[kimh]

Kimi, love your pictures. Are you getting used to staying away from 'auto'?
Have you started your photo group?
I'm itching to get out and practice some more.
Roger-do keep us informed.
Kimh

[kimi_boo]

Kimi, love your pictures. Are you getting used to staying away from 'auto'?
Have you started your photo group?
I'm itching to get out and practice some more.
Roger-do keep us informed.
Kimh

Kim... I have never used auto. I am still in aperture priority mode.
Me and 2 others from my photo class went to shoot today.
Some were good, some were not so good. The sun came out and the girls were having a hard time opening their eyes.

Did you see Byron's new picture he took with his? It is in his gallery.
Maybe we don't have the same camera. :eek: ;)

[Byron Gale]

...Did you Byron's new picture he took with his? It is in his gallery. Maybe we don't have the same camera...Kimi,

We have the same camera and lens, but MINE (http://www.photoshopelementsuser.com/gallery/view_img.php?id=18681) just didn't come out as cute and fuzzy as yours... :twisted: .

For anyone waiting for this lens, I repeat my earlier admonition to check any local camera shops. I walked in off the street and bought the lens off the shelf, and the price was better than any I'd seen on-line. YMMV, of course, but it is worth a phone call or two.

Byron

[ronstelzy]

Tony,
Just got mine from Amazon; really an incredible piece of glass.

[kimh]

Kimi--Oh my, I just looked. Very nice Byron.
Kimi, yours are great too! It is amazing after a day of shooting 100+ pictures how few are 'keepers'. Thank God for digital:D
Wish we had a camera club:( I've been checking the local comm. college and not finding anything. Will check out of town I guess. Took the class at the tech. school in '05 and it wasn't very good...well it was horrible actually:rolleyes:
Maybe after Eclectic is over we can get a group from here interested in doing a chapter a week of 'Understanding Exposure' (Peterson).
Kimh

[kimi_boo]

Byron... yours is all nice and sharp! I just love it. :D :D :D

[troush]

My lens shipped today - exactly 2 months after I placed my order. I expect it by the end of the week. Hooooray. (Of course, just today, we discovered a leak in the plumbing, soooo timing is bad.)

-Trish

[Roger87]

My lens shipped today - exactly 2 months after I placed my order. I expect it by the end of the week. Hooooray. (Of course, just today, we discovered a leak in the plumbing, soooo timing is bad.)

-Trish

Trish - Where did you order your lens from? :confused:

[troush]

Trish - Where did you order your lens from? :confused:

ritzcamera.com

I ordered 1/25/2007 and it shipped 3/26/2007.

-Trish

[kimi_boo]

Roger... it took Kim and I right at about 2 months to get our from Ritz also.

[kimh]

Yeah Trish, Can't wait to see your photos!
Sorry about your plumbing but good thing it was AFTER ordering your lens.
Kimh

[troush]

Kimh,

Thanks. Hopefully we will have weather to support picture taking this weekend. We're planning on getting a camper (a pop-up) to go camping this summer, so more opportunities will arise.

Kimi - nice pictures. Makes me even more excited about the lens.

-Trish

[kimi_boo]

Thanks Trish... Looking forward to some of yours. :D

[troush]

Okay, I've had the lens since last Friday. I've only managed a few pictures.

This one, was hand-held at 1/8 shutter speed, and 200mm (I'm amazed my son stood still for 1/8th of a second ;) ):

http://www.pixentral.com/hosted/19j3Ub9eAr0yZ1YzHVDMiMrHf8rC1_thumb.jpg (http://www.pixentral.com/show.php?picture=19j3Ub9eAr0yZ1YzHVDMiMrHf8rC1)

This one is of Pikes Peak, last Sunday. Nothing remarkable, except that I was on the east side of Colorado Springs when I took it:

http://www.pixentral.com/hosted/10CFGmJz9GHjIg9RWRkKtuUWv20WyA_thumb.jpg (http://www.pixentral.com/show.php?picture=10CFGmJz9GHjIg9RWRkKtuUWv20WyA)


This one was hand-held at 1/4 shutter speed and 200mm, taken from the balcony of the church, with one of my boys on my lap. (My parents' choir had a special preformance, which was why we were in the Springs anyway):

http://www.pixentral.com/hosted/1Yp1oFKIuHODLGAeoyFXLJB1UjwMt_thumb.jpg (http://www.pixentral.com/show.php?picture=1Yp1oFKIuHODLGAeoyFXLJB1UjwMt)

All I did was resize to 800 x 532, for the web.

I have to say, the VR really does help with hand holding.

-Trish

[gaseavey]

I just bought a promaster 18-200 for my cannon and it appears to be a very nice lense.

[troush]

I really like the reach the 200mm end gives. I do notice a little vingetting (did I spell that right) out at 200 - but from what I've read, that's to be expected.

-Trish

[lowbone]

Nikon is famous for announcing the availability of new lenses months before they are on the market. It creates an illusion of being hard to get. They are also famous for taking up to six months for repairs on warranty work. I think thats part of the reason you see so many people shooting Canon now.

[Roger87]

It just shipped!!! I ordered this lens on 3/14/07 and it just shipped on 5/12/07, almost 2 months to the day which is what everyone else here has experienced. I wish it came before I left for Florida last week on vacation, but oh well. I'm so psyched to get this bad boy! WooHoo!!! :)

[troush]

I think you'll like it. I like mine...

-Trish