Oh the Choices...Beginner Telephoto Lenses

[DJM]

Hi People,

I have the option of choosing two choices of lenses: JUST a Nikkor 55-300mm or BOTH a Nikkor 55-200 and Nikkor 35mm f1.8.
Which option is the best for a beginner like me trying to find which area of photography to specialise in?
The 300mm has better image quality at both ends of the focal range (even though it drops off near the end) and has much better build quality with a metal mount plate, however it has a rotating front element and is slightly more expensive. Is this worth the extra money?

The 200mm is cheaper, doesn't have a rotating front element but its image quality isnt great and it has a low build quality with a plastic mount plate. Is this worth it despite the poor build quality?

I understand that the 35mm is a good lens to learn all about composition etc for a newbie like me.

I know some of you will suggest a Nikkor 70-300 as it has far superior image quality but it is that bit too far out of my price range.

Thanks a lot for your help and patience yet again.

 

[Derrel]

I would get the 55-300. Rotating front element is mainly of concern only when using filters.

 

[DJM]

I have been offered a Nikon 55-200mm Nikon Refurb at around £80 (~$120), should I still fork out the extra money to get a 55-300 or is the 55-200 a decent(ish) lens for the money?

 

[Braineack]

Despite being slow focusing the 300mm is a pretty decent lens. Focuses very close for a 300mm as well.

using tapatalk.

 

[nerwin]

I'd really recommend getting the 35 f/1.8. Which 55-200 lens are you talking about?

 

[fjrabon]

what lenses do you currently have and what is your camera body?

 

[Joves]

Are these the straight 55-200/300, or the VR versions? There is a major difference. I had them both, and the non VR only had a narrow f-stop range where the images were decent.