Nikon 18-105
Nikon 18-105 (on the left) from a comparison article
This lens is not going to set any records in the statistics. As a kit lens for APS-C cameras (it was standard on the Nikon D90) it is designed to be cheap and it actually shows. There are probably some comparisons that show that it does not do as well as some of the others.
But you know what, this is a great lens. I actually used it in the article most equipment is more than good enough to compare against a really good lens in an everyday situation. Trust me I have 2'000+ pictures taken with this lens that I really like. Unless you are writing articles about the relative performances of lenses, you will not be able to complain.
However, do not buy this lens separately. If you are just starting, and buy a used camera that comes with this lens, it might be all you need. Chances are very good that you will then be intrigued to try other things and you will end up with lenses that can also do what this lens can do for you, so it is one of those lenses that gets redundant the fastest. Build quality wise, it will probably not last as long as some of the older lenses that are out there (I actually had the plastic connecting piece broken, and had it repaired).
| Price | Affordable, but usually comes bundled with the camera |
|---|---|
| Weight | 450g |
| Good for | General purpose for everything |
| New or used | Do not buy it new, also only get it used when bundled |
No, this is not a lens to be used on a full frame camera. It will technically work, but your camera will switch to work as an APS-C camera. There is no sensible reason to use this on a full frame camera.
This is a APS-C zoom, it goes from quite wide to decently long. At 105mm it just leaves you wanting maybe a bit more, this is why it is probably not really a universal zoom, but it is also not that far off. It is a good beginners lens, and for most people this will actually be more than enough.
As explained above, this is a lens that you should only get if it is your first lens and it comes bundled with the camera for a nice price.
Gallery / see also
The picture from most equipment is more than good enough
Crop of the image from most equipment is more than good enough
Scenery from Ladakh, India
These pages are for Amateur Photographers and not really for seasoned photographers and professionals. I have no affiliation or commercial interest with any brand/make. I write from my own experience. I ended up using mainly Nikon, so I am more familiar with this brand than others. See price for notes on pricing as well as photography related links.